Tacoma Drug Possession Defense Lawyer

Drug possession charges can bring serious penalties, and it is a mistake to face these charges alone or with inferior representation. To see the best case outcome possible, connect with a  Tacoma drug crime defense lawyer. 

Puget Law has successfully defended thousands of clients and boasts over 400 five-star reviews. We are ready to put our knowledge, experience, and resources to work for you. Put your future in the capable, experienced hands of a Tacoma drug crimes defense lawyer from our firm. We are here to protect your rights and fight for your future. 

Possession with Intent to Deliver (PWID)

Those charged with possession with intent to deliver (PWID) are suspected of selling or distributing drugs. These charges are more serious and come with more significant consequences. Still, a Tacoma criminal defense lawyer at Puget Law is prepared for this fight and will work to have your charges and penalties reduced or even dropped.

RCW §69.50.401 makes it illegal “for any person to manufacture, deliver, or possess with intent to manufacture or deliver, a controlled substance.” Violations can lead to Class B or C felony charges and penalties, depending on the type and amount of substance involved in the crime. Other factors affecting penalties include

• The alleged offender’s criminal history and age
• The intent to use vs. sell the substance
• Whether the accused also had a weapon in their possession

The penalties for PWID are serious and established in RCW §9A.20.021:

• Convictions for Class B felonies can bring prison sentences of up to ten years, fines of up to $20,000, or both
• Convictions for Class C felonies can bring prison sentences of up to five years, fines of up to $10,000, or both

The law for PWID includes additional specific conditions affecting the severity of the charges and penalties. If you are charged with PWID, you need a drug possession defense attorney in Tacoma, WA to ensure the fair application of the law to your situation.  

Washington Drug Possession Laws

The State of Washington takes drug possession seriously, and those charged with related offenses can face significant penalties. Penalties vary depending on the type and amount of drug a person has in their possession. Other factors, including the alleged offender’s age and prior convictions, also affect consequences.

RCW §69.50.4013 makes it illegal to “knowingly possess a controlled substance” or “knowingly use a controlled substance in a public place” unless that substance was obtained through a valid prescription ordered by a practitioner acting within their professional capacity. Violations of the statute are considered gross misdemeanors. Penalties can include:

• Up to 180 days in jail
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Both imprisonment and fines
• Up to 364 days in jail for those with two or more prior convictions

An experienced drug possession defense lawyer in Tacoma, WA can navigate the factors affecting your case. Your attorney will also use the text of the law, which encourages prosecutors to seek treatment options rather than punishment when appropriate, to your advantage. The former prosecutors at Puget Law can provide you with a strategic, effective defense.

How We Fight Drug Possession Charges

Representation from a skilled drug possession defense attorney Tacoma, can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. Our team members have experience both as prosecutors and as defense attorneys. Our knowledge of how the system works puts us in the best position to wage a successful fight for you.

Your Tacoma drug possession defense attorney will:

• Investigate your charges and the circumstances of your arrest, exposing violations or inconsistencies that could result in charge dismissal.
• Build a case strategy specific to the details of your situation (if charges are not dismissed).
• Negotiate a plea bargain to reduce your charges and subsequent penalties.
• Defend you in court if the prosecution does not agree to a satisfactory plea bargain. We know how to prepare for a criminal trial. We will wage a powerful defense and make sure you are ready to face the prosecution.

Possible Defenses for Drug Possession Charges

After analyzing your case thoroughly, your drug possession defense lawyer in Tacoma will determine the best approach to your defense. Every case is different, and you can count on Puget Law to address your unique case circumstances, as our criminal defense case results show. However, there are some defenses more commonly used to combat drug possession charges, such as:

• You were subjected to an illegal search and seizure
• You did not know you were in possession of a controlled substance–for example, another party brought the substance into your home, car, or other property without your knowledge
• The substances are part of your legal medical protocol
• Your charges resulted from entrapment
• You were in possession of the substance under duress, being threatened with harm by another party for refusal to comply

Avoid Legal and Personal Consequences of Drug Possession Charges

The legal penalties for drug possession can affect your finances and freedom. They are not the only consequences, though. Convictions leave you with a criminal, and even after you have paid your fine or served your time, that record continues to cost you.

A criminal record can limit job opportunities. It can also lead to revocation of hard-earned professional licenses. You may struggle to pass background checks from landlords, finding it difficult to secure adequate housing. 

Your personal relationship may also suffer, especially if you spend time in prison. Friends may stay away, and your role within your family may change or become strained. For help avoiding these harsh legal and personal consequences, connect with a seasoned drug possession defense lawyer in Tacoma.

We Are Trustworthy, Effective Legal Partners

Count on Puget Law for exceptional representation as you combat drug possession charges. Our goal is to protect your rights and best interests. We understand the stress and anxiety you are experiencing and are here to help you get through this trying time. 

You can trust your Tacoma drug possession defense lawyer for sound legal guidance and depend on our team for support throughout your case proceedings. We will give your case the individualized attention it deserves, creating a smart, effective legal strategy designed to bring about the most favorable case resolution.