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Possessing A Small Amount Of Drugs May Carry Large Penalties

If you are found with even a small amount of certain drugs, you can be charged with a felony. Do not talk to the police without an attorney present. Everything you say will be used against you. The only way to protect your rights is to have a lawyer on your side.

At The Law Office of Andrew T. Christie, LLC, my Kansas City criminal defense law firm is committed to protecting the rights of citizens in Gladstone and the surrounding communities. I will fight your criminal charges and stand up for your rights.

Marijuana, Cocaine And Meth Possession

Missouri categorizes drugs into five schedules. The level of the criminal drug charge and the associated penalties depend on the type and amount of drug involved.

Possession of marijuana may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the amount of drug involved. Possession of less than 35 grams is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines.

Possession of more than 35 grams of marijuana and possession of other drugs, such as cocaine, heroin and methamphetamines – or any of the compounds used to make these drugs – are class C felonies. Possession of prescription medications without a valid prescription is also a felony offense.

If convicted of felony possession, you face up to seven years in prison and fines up to $5,000. As a convicted felon, you may struggle to obtain employment or housing for the rest of your life. You will also be stripped of your right to own or possess a gun – including a hunting rifle – and lose your eligibility for federal student financial aid.

I Can Answer Your Biggest Questions

As a defense attorney, clients ask me every question imaginable about drug charges. Most of the time, the answer for your specific question will rely on your specific circumstances. However, a few of the questions I get the most are fairly general, and I’ve put those answers below:

How can I get drug possession charges dropped?

While it is possible to get your drug possession charges dropped, it’s not all that simple. There’s no one-size-fits-all strategy for convincing the state to move on from its case against you or reduce the charges. Pursuing that course of action will look different for anyone.

However, if I can make the prosecutors think that pursuing you will be more trouble than it’s worth, they may consider other options.

Can I be charged with drug possession after the fact?

In Kansas, you may face charges for possession long after the instance. If the state can prove that you had drugs in your possession at some point within the statute of limitations, they may choose to take action against you.

Can felony possession of marijuana be expunged in Missouri?

The law forbids expungement of any class A felony. However, felony possession of marijuana, only extends to a class D felony, and you can pursue expungement. However, this is a complex process and you may need extensive help to take care of it.

Fighting For Your Rights

At The Law Office of Andrew T. Christie, LLC, I do everything in our power to defeat your criminal charges and get you the most favorable outcome possible. While preparing for trial, I am in constant negotiations with the prosecution. If I can get you a better outcome through a plea than would be available at trial, I will. If not, I will go to court and fight for your rights.

Certain counties have drug courts focused on helping individuals overcome addiction and criminal behavior. These rehabilitative programs may be available. Contact our firm to learn more. Call drug possession defense lawyer Andrew Christie today at 816-533-3456 to schedule a free consultation.