What Happens If You Are Caught With Drugs Around a School?

Criminal drug convictions can result in very serious penalties, ranging from hefty fines to jail time to court-imposed community service. Moreover, a conviction for drug possession or distribution can make it difficult for an offender to find a job, find a place to live, or go to the school of their choice. Therefore, the best way to avoid these consequences is to avoid a conviction in the first place. That is where the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Cohen Law Offices can help.

Our skilled legal team can meet with you to discuss the circumstances of your criminal charge and determine if you’re eligible to raise a legal defense when your case goes to trial. If you are, we can advance that defense on your behalf and work to obtain a complete dismissal of your charge. Alternatively, we can pursue a favorable plea deal from the state prosecutor who is handling your case.

To learn more about how we can assist with defending you against your pending charge, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online for more information.

Types of Drug Possession

A person can be charged with and convicted of drug possession if they have illegal drugs, such as cocaine or heroin, directly on their person. They can also face drug possession charges if they have some form of control over the drug at issue.

In ordinary possession cases, an individual who is convicted can be looking at a maximum of six months in jail, as well as a maximum fine of $1,000, for a first-time offense. If they are convicted of drug possession a second or subsequent time, they can receive more serious penalties. Those penalties may include a maximum prison sentence of 3.5 years. Drug distribution and trafficking charges can incur even higher penalties if the accused individual sustains a conviction.

Enhancing Factors

Under certain circumstances, an individual who is convicted on a drug possession charge can receive even stiffer penalties. For example, if you are caught selling drugs within 1,000 feet of a school, the maximum incarceration term increases by five years — which is a significant amount. Moreover, a judge may require you to complete 100 community service hours, in addition to the jail time that you must serve.

Speak to an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney About Your Pending Legal Matter Today

One of the most important steps you can take after an arrest is to speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney about representing you in your case. Our legal team can explain your legal options, determine if you are eligible to raise a defense, and zealously advocate for your legal interests in court. If you ultimately sustain a conviction, we can represent you at your sentencing hearing and work to lessen the consequences. 

For a free case evaluation and consultation with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online to learn more.