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Fairfax, Virginia Drug Crimes Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Helping Defend Against Drug Charges in Fairfax, VA

People accused of drug charges in Virginia may face severe legal consequences if they are convicted, including fines, incarceration in prison, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing allegations related to drug possession, manufacturing, trafficking, or other charges involving controlled substances, the experienced attorneys at Robinson Law, PLLC are prepared to help. We can help determine the ideal defense strategies while fighting to protect your rights throughout your case.

We have extensive experience representing clients who have been charged with criminal offenses. As a former prosecutor, our founding attorney understands the ideal strategies that may be used to defend against convictions. With our extensive experience representing clients in trials, we can help defendants achieve success in these cases. Our skilled representation has resulted in more than 350 positive reviews and 5-star ratings from our clients, and we have received numerous awards and recognitions, including a 10.0 rating from Avvo, a Client Champion Award from Martindale, and a Leaders in Criminal Defense award from Time Magazine.

Types of Drug Crimes We Can Help Address

At Robinson Law, PLLC, we represent clients who have been accused of multiple types of drug-related offenses, including:

  • Drug Possession: We can help address charges related to possessing controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription medications without proper authorization.
  • Drug Manufacturing: We can address allegations that a person has produced or packaged illegal substances, including operating drug labs or preparing drugs for sale or distribution.
  • Drug Trafficking: We can defend against accusations of distributing, selling, or transporting controlled substances across state lines or national borders.
  • Marijuana Charges: We represent clients in cases involving the possession, distribution, or cultivation of marijuana, including those arising under Virginia's evolving cannabis laws.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Virginia

Virginia classifies drug crimes based on the type and amount of substance involved. The penalties range from misdemeanor charges with fines and shorter jail terms to serious felonies that may carry prison sentences of more than one year. The following penalties may apply for drug possession:

  • Schedule I substances (heroin, ecstasy, LSD, GHB): Class 5 felony, punishable by one to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
  • Schedule II substances (methamphetamines, cocaine, morphine, Adderall, Ritalin, PCP): Class 5 felony, punishable by one to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
  • Schedule III substances (anabolic steroids, codeine and hydrocodone, some depressants): Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
  • Schedule IV substances (Darvon, Talwin, Equanil, Valium, Rohypnol, Xanax, tranquilizers): Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
  • Schedule V substances (codeine-based cough medicines): Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500
  • Schedule VI substances: Class 4 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $250

Distribution of controlled substances is a felony offense. A person charged with possession of drugs with intent to distribute could face either felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the facts of the case. In general, distribution of Schedule I or II substances is a felony that may be punishable by between five and 40 years in jail, as well as a maximum fine of $500,000. Distribution of drugs in Schedule III, IV, or V is a misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Charges

Q

What Should I Do if I Am Accused of a Drug Crime?

Answer:

If you are arrested on charges of drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking, you should not discuss the case with law enforcement unless you have an attorney present. Exercise your right to remain silent, and contact our defense lawyers immediately to ensure that your rights will be protected during your case.

Q

When Can Drug Possession Lead to Felony Charges in Virginia?

Answer:

Possession of certain controlled substances, such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, is automatically charged as a felony under Virginia law. In general, any Schedule I or Schedule II substance may lead to felony drug possession charges if you did not have a valid prescription. Additionally, possessing large quantities of drugs or possession with intent to distribute may elevate the charge to a felony, even for substances that would typically result in misdemeanor charges.

Q

When Is Drug Court an Option in Virginia Criminal Cases?

Answer:

Drug court may be available for non-violent offenders who have substance abuse issues. These programs provide an alternative to incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation through treatment, counseling, and strict monitoring. Eligibility depends on the specific jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. In Fairfax County, people charged with non-violent felony drug offenses may be able to enter treatment programs lasting from one to two years instead of being sentenced to jail, and if they complete these programs, the charges may be dismissed.

Q

What Defenses Are Available in Drug Crime Cases?

Answer:

Defenses against drug charges may include arguing that the drugs belonged to someone else, challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, or asserting that law enforcement violated constitutional rights, such as conducting an illegal search or seizure.

Q

How Do I Address Illegal Searches by Law Enforcement?

Answer:

If police officers or other officials performed an illegal search, any evidence they found may be inadmissible during a criminal trial. Illegal searches may include searches performed without obtaining a warrant or receiving your consent, searches conducted when an officer did not see or smell evidence that was in plain sight, or situations where you were intimidated into complying with an officer's requests. Our attorneys can file a motion to suppress the evidence, which could significantly weaken the prosecution's case or even result in the dismissal of charges.

Contact Our Fairfax Drug Charges Lawyer

When you are facing drug charges, you need to make sure you have representation from an attorney with experience in these types of cases. At Robinson Law, PLLC, we can help you build a strong defense, and we will make sure you understand the best steps you can take to minimize the potential penalties you may face while avoiding consequences that could affect your future. Contact us at 703-844-3746 to set up your free consultation.

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10486 Armstrong St
Fairfax, VA 22030

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