Defending Drug Charges in District Court & Justice Court
Addiction and substance use disorders are a serious problem in many drug cases. Beyond the legal consequences of a conviction, someone struggling with addiction is facing an even bigger battle.
Having an attorney who is willing to innovate, push back, and put your goals first can make all the difference. We know the law well, and we want to understand what you want to achieve. Our job is to help you get there. If you are facing charges, contact us today to see how the right defense team can help.
Criminal Drug Charges – Felony & Misdemeanor
Drug crimes can be charged as felonies or misdemeanors. It depends on the circumstances and the drug involved. Justice courts only handle class B and lower-level misdemeanors (usually marijuana or paraphernalia charges). District courts handle both felony and misdemeanor cases within their jurisdiction.
Felony charges often involve accusations of distribution or possession with intent to distribute. Related felony charges can also include offering or arranging to distribute a controlled substance.
Understanding Controlled Substance Schedules
The severity of a drug charge depends on the type of controlled substance involved. Utah law categorizes drugs into schedules, with Schedule I being the most restricted. These drugs are considered to have a high potential for abuse. The schedule of a drug can affect both the charges and the potential penalties. Having an attorney who understands these classifications is essential to build a strong defense.
Defenses to Drug Charges
Defending a drug charge can involve a variety of strategies. Law enforcement must follow specific procedures when searching your home or vehicle. If your rights were violated during the search, that evidence might not be allowed in court. We also look for issues with the chain of custody or other procedural mistakes that could work in your favor.
Drug Court Programs
For those struggling with substance use issues, there are often alternatives to jail. Drug Court programs can help people avoid a criminal conviction and instead focus on rehabilitation. If you qualify, a Drug Court program can help you address substance abuse issues and move forward without a criminal record.
Penalties for Drug Crimes in Davis County
Penalties for drug crimes vary based on factors like the type of drug, the quantity, and whether there is a prior criminal history. Misdemeanor charges can lead to fines, community service, or jail. Felony convictions often bring long prison sentences and hefty fines. Our team fights hard to reduce or eliminate penalties, focusing on minimizing the impact on your life.
Protecting Your Future
A drug conviction can have lasting effects beyond fines or jail. It can hurt your job prospects, housing opportunities, and family life. By working with an experienced defense attorney who puts your goals first, you can explore your options and fight for a resolution that protects your future.
Facing a drug charge is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our legal team is here to provide the defense you need. We focus not only on the case itself but also on the underlying issues that may have contributed. We are ready to challenge the status quo and do whatever it takes to get you the best outcome possible. Contact us today to learn how we can help you fight for your rights and your future.