Depending on the drug charge, you could face jail time, fines, a criminal record, and other problems that follow you for years afterward.
If you are facing a drug charge in Burien or King County, you deserve to understand what you are up against. At NextLaw, our attorneys are former prosecutors who have more than 100 years of combined experience.
We know how prosecutors build cases and can help you understand your options. If you have been charged with a drug crime, Call Dan Next for a free consultation with a Burien criminal defense lawyer.
What Penalties Could You Face With Drug Crimes?
The consequences of a drug charge depend on the specific offense. Some charges may be misdemeanors, while others can be felonies with more serious penalties. A conviction may lead to:
- Jail or prison time.
- Fines and court costs.
- Probation or other court requirements.
- Loss or forfeiture of property in certain cases.
- Problems with employment.
- Professional licensing issues.
- Immigration consequences.
- Other restrictions or long-term effects of a criminal record.
The amount and type of drug involved can also affect the seriousness of the allegations. Because every case is different, it is important not to assume that the penalties listed for one drug offense will apply to your case. A Burien drug crimes lawyer can review your charges and explain the possible consequences.
For a free legal consultation with a drug crimes lawyer serving Burien, call (253) 238-2558
Drug Charges NextLaw Attorneys Defend
Drug cases can take many forms. The charge you face will depend on what law enforcement believes happened and what evidence they have. NextLaw attorneys can defend people facing allegations involving:
- Simple possession: This involves allegations that you knowingly possessed a controlled substance.
- Possession with intent to deliver: Prosecutors may claim that the drugs were intended for another person rather than personal use.
- Drug manufacturing or cultivation: These cases may involve allegations that someone produced or grew a controlled substance.
- Drug distribution or delivery: This can involve allegations that a person delivered, sold, or transferred drugs to someone else.
- Prescription drug fraud: This may involve allegations of obtaining or using prescription medication through deception or other unlawful means.
- Drug paraphernalia: Depending on the circumstances and applicable law, police may also make allegations involving items they believe were connected to drug activity.
The evidence behind the charge matters. What police found, where they found it, and how they obtained it can all affect a case.
Burien Drug Crimes Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558Possible Defenses to a Drug Charge
Being arrested does not mean you are automatically guilty. Prosecutors must prove the charges against you, and the evidence used in your case may be challenged. Depending on the circumstances, possible defenses may include:
Illegal Search or Seizure
If police searched your home, car, clothing, or another area without proper legal authority, an attorney may be able to challenge evidence found during the search.
Lack of Probable Cause for an Arrest or Search
Police generally need a legal basis to make an arrest or conduct certain searches. If officers did not have enough evidence to establish probable cause, that issue may become important to your defense.
Issues With the Evidence
Drug cases may depend heavily on physical evidence. Questions about how evidence was collected, stored, tested, or handled can affect the prosecution’s case.
Entrapment
Entrapment may apply in limited situations when law enforcement improperly induces someone to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. Whether this defense applies depends on the specific facts.
Our NextLaw attorneys can review the facts and help you understand which options may be available.
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What Should You Do After a Drug Arrest in Burien?
The choices you make after an arrest can affect your case. Try to stay calm and avoid taking steps that could make things harder later. Here are some tips on what to do after a drug arrest:
Remain Silent
You have the right to remain silent. You generally do not need to explain your side of the story to police before speaking with an attorney.
Do Not Consent to a Search
If police ask to search your car, home, or belongings, you can state that you do not consent. Do not physically resist a search. Instead, let your attorney address whether the search was lawful.
Contact Our Burien Drug Crimes Attorneys
Call our Burien drug crimes law firm as soon as you can. Early legal advice can help you understand the charges, court dates, and steps that may come next.
Do Not Discuss Your Case Publicly
Be careful about discussing your case over text, social media, or other public platforms. Information you share may become part of the evidence in your case.
Do Not Ignore Court Dates
Missing a court date can create additional legal problems. Make sure you understand when and where you need to appear. If you have been arrested or charged with a drug crime, Call Dan Next before making decisions that could affect your future.
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Why Choose NextLaw for Drug Crime Defense?
Facing a criminal charge can feel overwhelming, especially when you do not know what will happen next. You need attorneys who will listen to your side of the story and explain the choices you may have.
Our approach is personal: Rather than treating every case the same, our attorneys look at the specific facts, evidence, and goals involved in your situation. We can help you understand your options and prepare a defense based on the circumstances of your case.
NextLaw serves clients in Burien and throughout King County. If you are facing a drug charge, our attorneys can help you understand what comes next.
Call Our Burien Drug Crimes Law Firm Today
A drug case can move quickly, and important evidence may become harder to find as time passes. Court dates and other deadlines can also affect your case.
NextLaw’s former-prosecutor attorneys can review the charges and evidence and discuss your legal options. With more than 100 years of combined experience, our team is prepared to guide you through the entire process.
If you are facing a drug charge in Burien, Call Dan Next for a free consultation.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form