Hampton Roads Drug Lawyer
To be picked up on a drug charge in Hampton Roads can be scary. As a general rule, public policy tends to frown upon the illicit use of controlled substances for an improper purpose.
If you are being investigated for the manufacture, possession, or sale of illicit narcotics, or a related drug charge, it would probably be wise to contact a skilled defense attorney as soon as you can. A seasoned Hampton Roads drug lawyer may be able to build a viable defense on your behalf.
Procuring Illicit Drugs Via Fraud
Per the Code of Virginia §18.2-258.1, it is illegal to procure a controlled substance or marijuana via any of the following means:
- Fraud
- Misrepresentation
- Deceit
- Embezzlement
- Forgery
- Alteration of a prescription
- Concealment of a material fact
- Use of false name or address
Generally, the alleged violation of this statute may be charged as a Class 6 felony. In Hampton Roads, per §18.2-10 of the Code of Virginia, a conviction for a Class 6 felony may lead to a sentence between one and five years, as well as a $2,500 fine. Sentences of less than 12 months may be available according to the discretion of the court, and an adept Hampton Roads drug attorney may argue for a lighter sentence, if it becomes necessary.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
By the authority of the Code of Virginia §18.2-250, it is a crime to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance unless it was legally obtained. Per the statute, it may not be presumed that the owner of the vehicle or the residence in which the drugs were found is automatically the owner of the drugs.
The possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance may be charged in Hampton Roads as a Class 5 felony. In Hampton Roads, a conviction for a Class 5 felony may result in a sentence of one to ten years and a fine of $2,500, but the court may hand down a different sentence at its discretion. However, a diligent drug lawyer in Hampton Roads may be able to present a winning defense that leads to acquittal.
Distributing Certain Drugs to Hampton Roads Minors
As has been codified by §18.2-255 of the Code of Virginia, it is generally unlawful for persons to distribute certain Schedule I, II, III or IV controlled substances or marijuana to young people who are under the age of 18. A conviction for the violation of this statute may result in a sentence of ten to 50 years and a $100,000 fine.
Depending on the circumstances and the schedule of the drug, a mandatory minimum sentence may apply. A skilled drug attorney in Hampton Roads may be able to advocate vigorously on behalf of a client who is accused of this offense.
Call a Hampton Roads Drug Attorney Today
A drug charge can be frightening. If you have been accused of the unlawful possession of a controlled substance, the improper acquisition of pharmaceuticals, or the illegal sale of drugs, it is likely time to call an experienced attorney.
A competent Hampton Roads drug lawyer may be a helpful resource and strong advocate in your favor if you are accused of a narcotics offense. Call the law offices of a local counselor today.