Tucson Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug crimes are taken seriously by the state of Arizona. If you are convicted of one, you may face years in jail. Our Tucson drug crime lawyers will fight to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.

At The Law Offices of Brandon White, our Tucson criminal defense lawyers build strategic defenses and advocate for the best outcome for your clients. We have a former state trooper and a former prosecutor on staff, giving us unique insights into how these cases are built.

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

How Can a Drug Crime Attorney in Tucson Help You?

Facing drug crime charges feels scary. You’re likely wondering what penalties you’ll face and how they will affect your life long-term. Our legal team will listen to your story to understand the complexities of your case, then we’ll go to work on building your defense.

With every case, we go above and beyond. We know that your future rides on this case, and we fight for the best possible outcome.

What Types of Drug Crimes Are There?

In Arizona, drug charges typically depend on whether drugs were in your possession to use or to sell, the quantity of drugs, and the type of drugs. Can you be charged if drugs were in your car but not on your person? Yes, possession refers to items that are on your person or your property.

Marijuana Possession

While it is legal to possess up to one ounce of marijuana, possessing excess amounts may result in felony or misdemeanor charges.

Drug Paraphernalia Possession

Possessing drug paraphernalia may be charged as a Class 6 felony.

Narcotics Possession

Narcotics include heroin, cocaine, and opioids. Possession may be charged as a Class 4 felony, while manufacturing or selling narcotics is typically a Class 2 felony.

Dangerous Drugs Possession

The dangerous drugs classification applies to drugs like methamphetamines and LSD. Possession of these drugs is generally a Class 4 felony.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Tucson

The penalties for drug crimes often include consequences that can impact the rest of your life. Some examples include:

• Depending on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony, you may face anywhere from a year in jail to over 23 years in jail.

• Fines typically start around $1,000 but quickly rise depending on the severity of the charge.

• Impacts to housing and jobs.
• Immigration status effects.
• Probation.
• Loss of professional licenses.

How Our Legal Team Builds a Strong Defense for Drug Crime Cases in Tucson

We use our in-house investigative perspective to look for weaknesses in the case against you. We also do our own investigation to gather evidence that supports our case. Some common defenses against drug crime charges include:

• Lack of knowledge: You had no knowledge of the drugs in your possession. For example, you live in a shared apartment, and the drugs belonged to someone else.
• Lack of intent: The prosecution needs to prove intent, such as an intent to sell.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecutor cannot clearly tie you to the drugs.
• Rights violations: Your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest. For example, an officer pulled you over and searched your vehicle without probable cause.
• Valid prescription: You may have a valid medical prescription for the drugs in your possession. In which case, you have done nothing against the law.

What Evidence Can We Use in Your Defense?

To build your case, we’ll gather evidence that supports your side of the story. For example:

• Bodycam footage from the arresting officer, showing they had no probable cause to search your personal belongings.
• Search warrants that lack facts or reliable information.
• Witness testimony.
• Medical records.

What Evidence May Be Used Against You?

We will also analyze the evidence that the prosecution uses to build its case against you. This could include:

• Officer testimony.
• Other witness testimonies.
• Video footage.
• Forensic analysis, such as your fingerprints on the packaging of the drugs.
• Physical evidence, including the drugs found in your possession.
• Financial records.
• Digital communication, such as text messages or emails.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crime Charges in Tucson

Below we’ll go through some common questions we hear about drug crime cases.

Will You Lose Custody of Your Child for a Drug Crime Conviction?

Yes, you can lose custody of a child for a drug crime conviction. Under A.R.S. 25-403.04, a conviction for a drug offense can result in the loss of sole or joint legal custody. You may be restricted to supervised visits. 

Can You Be Deported for a Drug Crime Conviction?

Yes, you can be deported for a drug crime conviction. In some cases, first-time offenders may not face deportation, but these involve specific circumstances.

Will You Go to Jail For a First-Time Drug Offense in Arizona?

You could go to jail for a first-time drug offense in Arizona. However, in many cases, first-time offenders may qualify for probation and mandatory drug counseling instead of jail time.

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

If you are arrested for a drug crime, there are a few important actions. These are:

• Do not resist arrest, even if you have done nothing wrong. You can be charged for resisting arrest.
• Ask to contact a Tucson drug crime attorney.
• Invoke your right to remain silent.
• Comply with the booking process.
• Comply with any legal restrictions placed on you by the court, such as the terms of your bail.
• Do not try to destroy or hide evidence.

Contact a Drug Crime Lawyer in Tucson Today

Reach out to the legal team at The Law Offices of Brandon White. We will evaluate your case and come up with the best possible defense strategy. Our goal is to get the best outcome we can, whether that’s a dismissal of your case or a lesser sentence if you are convicted.

Schedule a free consultation today.