Drug Lawyer, Hayes Valley,
San Francisco, CA
Many people do not realize how serious drug possession charges can be. Most judges choose to use drug possession as an example and end up cracking down on those who have been arrested for such charges. You may be thinking that drug possession is not nearly as serious as other types of drug charges, like intent to distribute. While you may be right, drug possession is a serious offense and one that will stay on your criminal record. Especially for those who have never had a criminal record, a Hayes Valley, San Francisco, California drug lawyer from The Hallinan Law Firm knows that this can negatively impact your life for the rest of your life. Further, many times police officers and prosecutors may try to convince you to admit to a crime you did not commit or coax you into saying something they can use against you. This is why it is imperative that you work with us on your drug possession charges.
What does it take to prove drug possession?
Drug possession laws are different in every state you may go to. However, the prosecution will likely be looking for two factors when proving that you possessed drugs. These include:
You knew that the drug in question was an illegal substance, whether it is illegal everywhere or medially legal under certain circumstances.
You had control over the drug in question in some way.
A drug lawyer in Hayes Valley, San Francisco, CA knows that it is also possible that a prosecutor or police officer is trying to charge you with constructive possession. This means that although you did not have the drug on you or in your possession at the time, you had access to it at another location. A common circumstance for this may be a shared apartment or vehicle that had drugs in it that you carry keys for.
Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute
Even more serious than regular drug possession is being charged with drug possession with the intent to distribute. You will likely find that the intent to distribute the drugs carries much higher penalties than simple possession, and the reason for this is that more people can become harmed through the distribution of drugs.
Laws can also be very confusing since there are different laws regarding different types of drugs. For example, you may legally have the right to possess marijuana for medical or recreational purposes in one state. However, if you cross state lines with that marijuana into a state that did not legalize marijuana, you can still be charged with drug possession. Regardless of your circumstances, it is important that you speak with a drug lawyer Hayes Valley, San Francisco, CA right away so that they can begin working on your case.
Call Our Office for Legal Help
If you have been arrested on drug charges, call The Hallinan Law Firm to ensure your legal rights are protected. Contact our office to meet with a seasoned Drug Lawyer, Hayes Valley, San Francisco, CA clients recommend today.