Defending Against the Consequences of Indiana Drug Crimes
A conviction for drug charges comes with serious consequences in Indiana. It can mean that a single mistake turns into a lifetime of complications, including difficulty obtaining student loans, a job or even a place to live. Instead of taking chances with your future by representing yourself in these cases, let an experienced team of criminal defense attorneys fight for you.
At Defend Indiana, LLC, our Indiana drug crime defense lawyers have been representing clients throughout Indiana for decades. We understand the lasting impact of criminal charges, and we want to be the firm you choose to help you pursue the outcome you deserve in your case, no matter the charges.
Types Of Drug Crimes In Indiana
Drug charges can range from minor possession offenses to serious manufacturing cases. Here are some common drug crimes we defend against:
- Drug possession: Being found with illegal substances, even if not on your person but within your control, such as in your vehicle, can result in possession charges.
- Drug distribution: Selling or distributing drugs, including prescription medications, is considered more serious than possession and often leads to heavier penalties.
- Drug manufacturing: Charges can arise if you are found with the equipment or chemicals used to make drugs, even if the drugs themselves are not present.
- Marijuana charges: Possession of marijuana with more than 0.3% THC is illegal in Indiana and can lead to misdemeanor charges, with potential jail time and fines.
These crimes carry serious consequences, but with a strong defense strategy, we work to minimize the impact on your future.
Indiana Drug Classifications
Indiana categorizes controlled substances into different schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use:
- Schedule I: Drugs with high abuse potential and no accepted medical use (e.g., heroin, LSD).
- Schedule II: Drugs with high abuse potential but some accepted medical use (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine).
- Schedule III – V: Drugs with lower abuse potential and accepted medical uses (e.g., certain prescription medications).
The classification of the drug involved in your case will greatly influence the charges and possible sentencing you face.
Common Drug Crime Defense Strategies In Indiana
Defending against drug charges requires careful consideration of the details surrounding your case. Common defense strategies include:
- Illegal search and seizure: If the evidence was obtained without proper legal procedures, it might be inadmissible in court.
- Lack of possession: Demonstrating that the drugs found were not in your control or possession at the time of the arrest.
- Chain of custody errors: Proving that evidence was mishandled, misplaced or compromised during the investigation process.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, this could be a valid defense.
Our attorneys explore every possible avenue to help protect your rights and minimize the impact of the charges.
Indiana Drug Crime Penalties
Depending on the nature of your charges, the sentencing upon conviction will vary. For example, being charged with possession of different drugs will result in punishments such as:
- Marijuana: Up to a year in jail, $5,000 in fines if less than 30 grams
- Cocaine and methamphetamine:
- Class D felony – up to three years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- Class C felony – up to eight years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- Class B felony – up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- Class A felony – up to 50 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
We take the time to explore all possible defenses in your unique case to pursue the outcome that can best protect your future. We can also help if your drug charges are related to an operating while intoxicated charge. Whether we fight to beat your charges in court, or we negotiate for reduced charges or a better plea deal, you can rest easy knowing that we are doing everything we can for you.
For more information on Indiana Impaired Driving Laws, visit the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute website.
Build Your Defense with Experienced Indiana Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you are already facing drug charges or think you may be soon, let our experienced attorneys help craft a custom-tailored strategy for your defense. Call us at 888-318-1594 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation today.