Drugs

In Pennsylvania, it is a crime to possess illegal or controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and other drugs. You can also be charged with possession of paraphernalia without the presence of drugs. The penalties for drug offenses vary greatly depending on the type and amount of drug found in your possession. Penalties can range from fines and minor probation to lengthy incarceration periods and much larger fines. In addition, if you have a prior record of drug charges, your penalties will increase as well.

In Pennsylvania, many counties have Drug Treatment Court, which is a committee often consisting of a judge, prosecutor, probation officer, treatment counselor and others. The goal of such a program is to provide rehabilitation and will require frequent drug testing and counseling in order to treat addicts and reduce repeat offenses.

A skilled criminal defense attorney may be able negotiate a plea agreement that results in the dismissal of some of the more harsh charges. An attorney may also be able to prove that an individual’s rights have been violated by an illegal search and seizure or possibly entrapment.

Police often say that it is to your benefit to be truthful and cooperative by telling your side. This is almost always not in your best interest. Regardless of the circumstances of your arrest for drug related offenses, you should be represented by a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. At Lepley, Engelman, Yaw & Wilk, we have years of experience negotiating plea agreements and defending our clients. DO NOT talk with the police or prosecuting attorney without your attorney present.

If you are arrested for drug-related charges, contact us immediately.