Facing a drug crime conviction? Then it is important that you act fast to protect your rights and your reputation. Drug offenses are taken very seriously in Minnesota and across America. Because drug crimes not only impact you personally but also society, drug offenses are usually heard in a separate drug court or else through the federal system. What this means is that if you are convicted of any drug offense, you could be facing the federal prison sentencing system which includes heavy fines and long jail sentences.

Drug crimes involve any criminal act pertaining to illegal drugs, non prescribed prescription medication and simulated controlled substances. This can include possession, distribution, manufacturing, trafficking, or sale of any narcotics. Some of the more common drug offenses include cases involving marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and LSD.

Drug Offense Legal Support

Our firm represents any client facing a drug offense conviction. We can help you with the following cases:

• First Degree Controlled Substance , Second Degree Controlled Substance , Third Degree Controlled Substance, Fourth Degree Controlled Substance, Fifth Degree Controlled Substance arrests
• Importing Controlled Substances
• Possession of Substances With Intent to Manufacture Methamphetamine
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Simulated Controlled Substances
• Anhydrous Ammonia Prohibited Conduct
• Methamphetamine Crime Involving Children & Vulnerable Adults
• Cultivating/growing marijuana
• Trafficking and transportation of narcotics
• Manufacturing with the intent to sell
• Prescription fraud
• Possession and sale of prescription drugs such as Vicodin, Valium, Celexa, Ritalin, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications without a prescription

Facing Drug Offense Conviction

The severity of your penalty will depend on the severity of the crime committed. Drug manufacturing with the intent to sell and drug trafficking are often treated as the most serious convictions as they impact society, not just the individual. First degree controlled substance charge comes with a jail sentence of up to 30 years as well as a $1,000,000 fine. Even fifth degree drug charges come with up to 5 years in prison and/or a $100,000 fine. Importing controlled substance charges include up to 35 years in prison and $1,250,000 fine while possession with the intent to manufacture can cost you up to 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine. Stimulated controlled substance offenders may face p to 3 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine.

Keep in mind that some drug offenses, such as possession of narcotics with intent to distribute, are also enhanceable if any of the following aggravating factors are present:

• If you have distributed the controlled substance to people under the age of 21
• If you have distributed the controlled substance near a school
• If you have distributed  the controlled substance to people under the age of 18 to violate drug laws

Representation throughout Minnesota

Do not take any drug offense arrest or accusation lightly. Even something as small as possession of drug paraphernalia could land you in prison and with a criminal record. The more severe offenses such as drug trafficking can result in several years in a federal institute. Even after you have served your time, you may have trouble finding work and accommodation with this black mark on your record. After all, employees and landlords are hesitant to hire and rent to someone with a history of drug abuse.

Rivers & Associates, PA are there when you need us most. It is important to act fast when facing an arrest and criminal conviction. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with the aggressive representation and legal assistance you need to ensure the best outcome possible. Contact us today at (612) 339-3939.

Our Minneapolis criminal defense lawyers represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.