DRUG CHARGES

Representing With Respect

The consequences of a drug offense can be very serious. Conviction can result in prison time, big fines, court ordered classes, registration as a drug offender and so on. You could end up with a criminal conviction on your record, permanently tarnishing your reputation and impacting your future, including your employment opportunities.
—- ILLEGAL VS. LEGAL DRUGS –—
The legality of a drug often depends on how it is being used or what it is being used for. For example, amphetamines are used to treat attention deficit disorder, barbiturates help treat anxiety, and marijuana can help alleviate cancer-induced nausea. But unprescribed and unsupervised use of these substances (and many others) is thought to present a danger to individuals and to society in general.
Though there is a longstanding federal strategy in place to combat the abuse and distribution of controlled substances, each state also has its own set of drug laws. One key difference between the two is that while the majority of federal drug convictions are obtained for trafficking, the majority of local and state arrests are made on charges of possession. Out of these state and local arrests, over half are for the possession of marijuana. Below link to find a brief overview of these offenses, as well as an explanation of some key terms related to drug crimes.
Probable Penalties & Consequences
Possession of a controlled substance: 1st offense, possible jail time – 2nd 2 yrs; – 3rd Indefinite. Sale of a controlled substance: 1st offense 2 yrs – 2nd Indefinite. The main difference between federal and state drug laws is the severity of consequences after a conviction. Federal drug charges generally carry harsher punishments and longer sentences. State arrests for simple possession (i.e. possession without intent to distribute the drug) tend to be charged as misdemeanors and usually involve probation, a short term in a local jail, or a fine — depending on the criminal history and age of the person being charged. Please refer to the “MORE…” link below to review the various illegal drug offenses and the definitions and respective penalties attendant thereto.
If Arrested or Jailed
Many of Mark Waecker’s clients have sought his legal guidance immediately following an arrest, while still incarcerated. Those clients use the clock to their advantage, as time is still on their side. Acting quickly and efficiently, Mark Waecker will use assertive strategies to have cases dismissed or substantially reduce potential consequences.
If Contacted by the Police
First and foremost, absolutely exercise your right to remain silent at all times, under all circumstances. Many cases are prosecuted when clients, contacted by a law enforcement agent, mistakenly believe that they can talk their way out of the situation. Often, these are undercover agents acting like ordinary people.
Challenging the skill and training of a law enforcement officer by attempting to discuss your case with them is never a good idea. Instead, immediately assert your right to remain silent and call Mark Waecker directly, or have someone else make the call for you.