Depending on the circumstances surrounding the case, a drug possession charge can drastically upend the life of the defendant. Convictions may lead to a suspended license, subsequent job loss, heavy fines and even years in prison. A strong argument in the courtroom, however, may go a long way.
If you are facing drug possession charges, note that an experienced legal representative may be able to help. Lawyers who are adept at handling criminal defense cases, especially drug charges, know what to look for as they build a defense case for their client.
Potential defenses for a possession charge include:
- Laboratory analysis: Some charges may occur because a substance appears to be one drug but is, in fact, something else. A confirmation from a lab analysis may then become evidence in your defense case.
- Drug ownership: Do the drugs belong to you? Your case may benefit from proof that the drugs belong to someone else.
- Planting or entrapment: The actions of the police officer may be investigated, and the officer may be interviewed, to ensure that drugs were not planted or that unlawful entrapment did not occur.
- Medical exceptions: Medical marijuana is now legal in Missouri for those with valid medical cards. A matter of misinformation or misunderstanding may lead to a marijuana charge for those with the legal rights to possess it.
Whatever the case, a matter of thorough investigation by your attorney may lead to reduced charges, dismissed charges or alternative forms of punishment such as rehabilitation.