HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT DRUG DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN OHIO
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program website is considered the gold standard for arrest data. According to the most recent data, drug violations were the most common offense in 2017. That year more than 1.6 million people were arrested for selling, manufacturing, possessing, or driving under the influence of illegal drugs. Sadly, the number of drug offenses is increasing fast, most likely due to the opioid epidemic. In 2016, there were about 400,000 fewer drug-related arrests.
If you or a family member was arrested on drug charges, then it is crucial that you find a drug offense attorney to represent you. In addition to jail sentences and fines, there is a social stigma around these crimes that can linger for many years.
What Do Drug Offense Attorneys Do For Defendants In Ohio?
Whether the arrest was for the sale of drugs or personal possession, you need someone on your side. The best criminal defense attorneys work hard to protect the rights of those arrested for drug crimes, even if society at large looks down on them. Drug offense attorneys will take the time to listen to your version of what happened and why you were arrested. They will pull together all of the facts and supporting legal information. They will work with you on the best defense for your specific drug crime.
There are common defenses for defendants charged with drug crimes. A common defense is unlawful search and seizure. Often, aggressive police officers will ignore your constitutional rights when searching your home or vehicle, which can have a huge impact on your case. In these types of cases, criminal defense lawyers work with their clients to determine how the drugs were discovered and whether it was done lawfully.
While it may seem counter-intuitive, criminal defense attorneys can also help their clients plead guilty to drug offenses. In many cases, first-time offenders charged with drug possession or other misdemeanors will qualify for diversion programs that keep them out of jail. In other cases, your Ohio criminal defense attorney will negotiate a plea deal with prosecutors. This can often result in reduced penalties such as probation instead of jail time.
How Do You Find The Right Criminal Defense Attorney For Drug Charges?
Although it may not be apparent to you, an experienced drug defense team will ask the right questions and can build the right defense for your case.
Are you ready to choose your legal team? Here are three tips.
Find Ohio law firms that focus on drug crimes. The law firm's website should provide detailed information about the types of law they practice and the number of years they've been working with clients.
One of the best ways to find a legal team you can trust is by asking friends and family members for referrals. If that's not an option due to the sensitive nature of these crimes, read online reviews from prior clients. If possible, ask your potential attorney for references that you can contact.
Finally, be sure you fully understand the costs for the defense and the payment plan. You must be able to afford your defense.
Remember: If you or someone you love has been arrested for a drug crime, this is not the time to wait! The sooner you find an attorney to represent you, the sooner you can start working on a strong defense. You deserve someone on your side who can support you and defend your rights -- no matter what.