Scottsdale Drug Crime Lawyer

Being arrested for a drug crime can throw your whole world into chaos. You’re likely worried about what happens next and how your future will be impacted. Our Scottsdale drug crime lawyers are here to fight for your future.

Since 2015, the Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers at The Law Offices of Brandon White have helped our clients by building strategic defenses. We are here to support you at one of the most difficult times of your life.

Reach out today to schedule a free initial consultation about your case.

Are Drug Crimes Felonies or Misdemeanors in Scottsdale?

Whether a drug crime is charged as a felony or misdemeanor in Scottsdale depends on the circumstances of the case, including the drugs involved and their quantity. Do you always go to jail for a felony? No, but jail time is more likely when charged with a felony rather than a misdemeanor.

In some cases, such as those involving certain prescription drugs or when the defendant has no criminal history, a misdemeanor charge may be more likely.

Types of Drug Offenses

The drug offense you are charged with will shape the defense we build for you, as well as the possible penalties. You may be accused of:

• Possessing or using drugs. You can be accused of actual possession if you are caught with the drugs on you or constructive possession if the drugs were in your vehicle.
• Manufacturing drugs.
• Drug possession with the intent to sell. Possessing a large quantity of drugs may result in this charge.
• Drug trafficking or transportation.
• Possessing drug paraphernalia.

It’s important to note that one drug charge can often lead to another. For example, drug possession could become drug transportation if you had drugs in your car and crossed state lines.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Arizona?

The penalties you face will depend on the type of drug crime. For example, a conviction for drug possession will typically have less jail time than a conviction for selling drugs. Some examples include:

• Possession of dangerous drugs: According to ARS 13-3407, it may result in a Class 4 felony, punishable by 18 months to 45 months in jail.
• Manufacturing dangerous drugs: This may result in a Class 2 felony, punishable by three to 12.5 years in prison. 

If it is your first or second offense and there was no violence involved, you may be eligible for probation and mandatory drug treatment or education rather than prison time.

Additional Impacts of Drug Crime Convictions

While imprisonment is often the most significant penalty for a conviction, you may face other long-term consequences. These may include:

• Probation.
• Mandatory drug counseling or education programs.
• Loss of reputation.
• Loss of professional licenses.
• Impacts on jobs, housing, and immigration status.

How Can a Drug Crime Attorney in Scottsdale Help You?

When you’re facing criminal charges for a drug crime, it’s easy to feel scared and unsure of what to do next. Our legal team is here to guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and build you a strategic defense.

We can:

• Investigate the charges against you.
• Gather evidence to support your defense.
• Analyze the evidence against you.
• Handle any plea deal negotiations.
• Represent you in court.
• Advocate for a lower sentence, when necessary.

At The Law Offices of Brandon White, we bring 30 years of combined experience. Our legal team is committed to providing true 5-star service at every stage of your case. You can read our results to learn more about how we’ve helped our clients.

Common Defenses for Drug Offenses

While we tailor our defense strategy to match the specifics of your case, there are potential defenses that we may use. These include:

• The officer did not have probable cause to pull you over or search your vehicle.
• Evidence was collected in an illegal search and seizure if your house was entered without a warrant.
• You didn’t know that you possessed an illegal substance.
• You had no intention to sell an illegal substance. Prosecutors must prove intent.
• Chain of custody or other evidence errors.

We will carefully analyze all of the evidence being used against you, looking for any issues.

What Evidence Can Be Helpful for Your Defense?

Helpful evidence to support your case may include:

• Witness statements.
• Video footage. For example, if someone else is seen putting drugs in your vehicle.
• Fingerprints or other physical evidence to prove you did not handle the drugs.
• Dashcam or bodycam footage, if an officer did not have probable cause to search your vehicle.
• Medical records, if you had a valid prescription for the drugs found in your possession.

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for a Drug Crime in Scottsdale?

If you are arrested, your actions can impact your case. You should:

• Remain as calm as possible. Be polite to arresting officers and do not try to resist arrest.
• Pay attention to the reason given by the officer for pulling you over or arresting you.
• Do not try to explain yourself.
• Ask to speak with a Scottsdale drug crime attorney.
• After asking for your lawyer, exercise your right to remain silent.
• Comply with the booking process.
• Follow any legal restrictions set by the court.
• Consult with your lawyer about the next steps you should take.

Contact a Drug Crime Lawyer in Scottsdale Today

It’s easy to panic when you’ve been charged with a crime. Our legal team is here to give you confidence in the legal process. At The Law Offices of Brandon White, we will fight to protect your freedom. 

Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation about your case.