Drug Possession Lawyer in Hastings

Penalties vary by drug type, amount, prior convictions, and whether simple possession or possession with intent to deliver. Simple possession penalties: marijuana possession (civil infraction for small amounts, misdemeanor for larger amounts before legalization), cocaine/heroin possession (felony, up to 4 years for amounts under 25 grams, more for larger amounts), prescription drugs without prescription (felony based on amount). Drug possession defenses include: illegal search and seizure (Fourth Amendment violations require suppression of evidence), lack of knowledge (didn't know drugs were present), lack of possession (drugs belonged to someone else, no control over them), unlawful stop (police lacked reasonable suspicion for traffic stop), drug identification issues (substance wasn't actually illegal drug, testing problems), valid prescription (for prescription drug charges), and entrapment (in buy cases). Former prosecutor experience provides advantages. We know how police conduct drug investigations, what mistakes they make, and how to exploit weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Many drug possession cases result in reduced charges. Michigan's 7411 statute allows first-time drug offenders to avoid conviction through delayed sentencing. We pursue 7411 whenever possible, protecting your criminal record. We also negotiate reductions from possession with intent to simple possession, reducing penalties significantly. Drug court programs offer treatment-based alternatives to incarceration for qualifying offenders. We help clients access drug court when beneficial. The Browning Law Firm provides aggressive drug possession defense protecting your freedom and future.