Attorney Fighting Back Against Drug Charges In Rochester
Felony or misdemeanor drug charges in upstate New York require immediate legal attention. Whether you have been arrested or indicted, or have reason to believe you are under investigation, you need an experienced defense lawyer looking out for your rights.
In Rochester and surrounding communities, you can turn to the Law Office of Adam J. Willman for skilled representation in the face of damaging criminal charges. At the firm, Adam understands what is at stake and will do everything in his power to limit your exposure to criminal penalties and the consequences of having a criminal record.
Defense Tactics For Drug Charges
The firm provides an aggressive defense against misdemeanor and felony drug charges, including:
- Possession
- Possession with intent to sell
- Trafficking
As a former prosecutor, attorney Adam Willman knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. He understands what it takes to build a strong case for a drug conviction as well as how to defeat one. He will begin by examining the circumstances and evidence for any examples of your rights being violated. Examples could include being subjected to an illegal search or seizure, or not having your rights read to you at the time of your arrest.
Understanding Federal Drug Schedule Classifications
The federal government classifies controlled substances into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Each schedule carries different penalty ranges:
- Schedule I: Highest abuse potential with no accepted medical use, including heroin, LSD, ecstasy and marijuana (under federal law)
- Schedule II: High abuse potential with some medical uses, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and oxycodone
- Schedule III: Moderate abuse potential, including ketamine, anabolic steroids and some codeine products
- Schedule IV: Lower abuse potential, including Xanax, Valium and Ambien
- Schedule V: Lowest abuse potential, including cough medicines with small amounts of codeine
Penalties for drug crimes vary widely based on the schedule classification and amount involved. Low-level possession of Schedule V substances may result in misdemeanor charges with fines and probation. Possession or sale of Schedule I or II drugs in larger quantities can lead to felony charges carrying years or decades in prison.
Federal mandatory minimum sentences apply to certain drug trafficking offenses. Manufacturing or distributing Schedule I or II drugs near schools can result in enhanced penalties. The specific charges and potential sentences depend on the drug type, quantity, your criminal history and whether the case is prosecuted at the state or federal level.
What Should You Do If You’re Arrested For Drug Charges?
Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or consent to searches without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The attorney can review the circumstances of your arrest, challenge improper procedures and begin building your defense immediately.
Don’t Let A Drug Charge Destroy Your Life
Your rights, your reputation and your future are all on the line. You cannot afford to go it alone. Call the firm at 585-643-5274 or contact the firm online for your free initial consultation.