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Giving Our Clients a Fighting Chance Against the Full Force of the Government
Drug distribution laws in Ohio cover crimes where a person delivers, sells, or may provide controlled substances unlawfully. A conviction for such an offense can have a severe and life-altering impact on your future, especially if you do not have the right attorney on your side. Whether you have been charged with a less severe distribution crime or have been accused of a serious drug sale or trafficking crime, it’s critical that you take legal action immediately. A drug distribution lawyer in Cleveland may be able to assist.
At HMW Law, we know how quickly a drug crime conviction can destroy a person’s life. Even simple possession of a controlled substance can have major ramifications, but individuals charged with distribution could suffer far more serious consequences. If you are facing charges for intent to sell or distribute — or more severe trafficking charges — you need a Cleveland drug distribution attorney to build a strong and strategic defense against your accusations. You could face heightened penalties, so there’s no time to waste.
Speak with a qualified drug distribution lawyer at our law firm today. Contact us for a free consultation.
Drug Possession With Intent vs Drug Distribution
There is a wide variety of drug offenses under Ohio law. The severity of the charges a person faces could differ based on the drug involved, the amount in a person’s possession, and even if they have related items (e.g., delivery devices, small baggies) during an arrest. However, it’s important to understand the difference between separate charges — because this could have a significant effect on any potential penalties you may face. One of the most important distinctions is between drug distribution and drug possession with intent.
When a person is arrested for intent to distribute, it typically means they were found with a quantity of illegal drugs that suggests they were going to sell or distribute them. It’s also possible that these charges could be related to other circumstantial evidence — such as possession of measuring scales, baggies, or large sums of cash. All drug crimes have the potential for serious penalties, but intent is typically a lower-level offense than distribution. After all, this crime does not require that any sale have actually taken place.
Distribution is a different crime altogether. You’ll often hear the terms drug distribution and drug trafficking used interchangeably in Ohio. It seems like common sense that a person selling one baggie of marijuana would not face trafficking allegations under Ohio drug law, but that’s precisely what they may find themselves up against. The surrounding circumstances of the distribution charge (e.g., the drugs involved, amount of drugs, etc.) will have an effect on potential penalties — but the reality is that any form of distribution can result in charges of an extremely serious nature.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Distribution in Ohio?
Every drug distribution lawyer in Cleveland hears the same questions from their clients. However, the most frequent question is likely, “What penalties might I face if convicted?” This is an understandable concern, but such a question cannot really be answered in a general online forum. Penalties vary based on a variety of issues. For instance, certain controlled substances are seen as more serious than others. For instance, Schedule I and II drugs typically result in more severe penalties than Schedule IV drugs or other schedules under the Controlled Substances Act.
If you’re charged with distributing small amounts of marijuana, it’s possible that only misdemeanor charges will be filed. However, distribution is typically a felony drug crime — and this can result in far more serious consequences. Penalties can also increase significantly due to federal drug crime charges. The circumstances of your case can greatly affect the potential penalties you’ll face. Clearly, pinpointing a particular outcome can be tricky — but the general sentences available are the same.
Penalties for drug distribution in Ohio depend on the level of the offense but include:
- Prison terms or jail sentence
- Fines
- Costs of court
- Property forfeiture
- Driver’s license suspension
- Professional license suspension or revocation
Ohio drug cases are extremely complex. Just a few ounces could mean the difference between a minor misdemeanor distribution charge and allegations of aggravated trafficking. In many cases, prosecutors will use the threat of increased charges to scare a defendant into accepting an unfair plea deal. Do not fall into this trap. A Cleveland drug distribution lawyer can review your case and help you better understand your options. Contact HMW Law today to discuss your case. Our experienced team of legal professionals is here to help.
What Types of Controlled Substances Fall Under Distribution Laws?
Drug charges can involve numerous controlled substances. This includes everything from heroin to over-the-counter cough medications. If you’re facing a felony drug charge, though, the substance involved is typically considered serious. Something as seemingly minor as marijuana distribution can result in felony drug charges in Ohio — even as the legalization movement has spread across the country. However, what matters most is finding a drug distribution lawyer in Cleveland with experience in the type of allegations you’re facing. This is the best way to avoid a criminal record.
Our Cleveland drug distribution attorneys can handle all types of drug distribution crimes involving:
We understand how overwhelming this time may feel, and that is why we are here to fight against your charges. Whether an officer violated your rights (e.g., illegal search) or a witness falsified testimony, our firm can uncover helpful evidence and make sure your freedoms and rights are upheld. Our legal team handles everything from drug possession charges to trafficking allegations — so we have the experience necessary to assist in your case. Don’t let the government trample your rights and freedoms. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What If You’re Charged Under Federal Drug Laws?
Being arrested by local law enforcement is a terrifying ordeal, so just imagine how scary it can be when the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) gets involved. Perhaps an undercover police officer was talking to you at an event, or maybe federal agents raided your home with the claim that an illegal substance was found on your property. Regardless of the specifics of your circumstances, the potential penalties faced once the federal government gets involved are greatly increased.
When charges are brought against you, it’s always ideal to have a Cleveland drug distribution attorney at your side. When it’s the feds coming for you, though, legal representation is an absolute necessity. Unfortunately, finding a qualified law firm becomes more difficult at this point. Drug charges on a federal level require an attorney who is admitted to practice in the federal judicial system. The attorneys at HMW Law are qualified for this, so don’t hesitate to contact us today.
If charged with distribution as a federal drug crime, you can expect your case to be heard in federal court. National laws will dictate your potential penalties rather than state statutes. Federal sentencing guidelines will also come into play — which often means mandatory minimum sentences. While federal crimes have many differences from state offenses — including the potential for federal prison — the need for an attorney to help you navigate the legal process remains the same.
What Sets HMW Law Apart?
When you’re looking for a drug distribution attorney in Cleveland, you no doubt have plenty of options to choose from. Unfortunately, local police, the DEA, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation aren’t going to offer attorney recommendations. In fact, they’d prefer if you represented yourself or accepted an overworked public defender. Do not give them this advantage. If you look up HMW Law online, you’ll see that we have stellar reviews and one of the highest law firm ratings you’ll come across. This stems from hard work and dedication.
Why should you call our award-winning firm? Check out what we offer:
- 24/7 access for our clients
- Decades of legal experience and insight
- Risk-free, no-cost consultations
- Client-centered legal services
Regardless of the circumstances of your drug case, our team of dedicated legal professionals will work hard to secure a favorable outcome for you. Unfortunately, the government will take every opportunity to make things difficult for you. This could include everything from overcharging you (e.g., distribution vs aggravated trafficking) to bringing your criminal history into focus as if it proves guilt.
Do not try to fight your distribution or intent to distribute charges alone! Get our experienced and qualified legal team at HMW Law on your side today. Call our Cleveland drug distribution lawyers at (216) 220-6776.
Should You Accept a Plea Deal?
Whether you’re facing charges under state or federal law, there’s a good chance that prosecutors will offer you a plea deal. When they do so, they’ll frame their offer in a way that makes it seem too good to pass up. Perhaps it’s a “one-time deal to reduce charges,” or maybe it’s “the best offer you’ll get under the circumstances.” They might even promise to reduce the charges against you if you just plead guilty. However, you should always remember that prosecutors do not have your best interests in mind.
At times, they’ll claim that aggravating factors exist simply to frighten a defendant. Overcharging is also common in order to motivate an alleged offender into accepting a deal. While it’s true that a plea deal may be the best option in some cases, this is something you should let your drug distribution attorney in Cleveland negotiate on your behalf. An experienced attorney knows how the system works, and if having a case dismissed isn’t possible, they may be able to work out a fair plea deal.
At HMW Law, we’ve helped many clients have the charges against them reduced and thrown out. However, it’s sometimes prudent to fight in court. If this becomes necessary, our attorneys will work hard to build an effective defense strategy. You’ll have a trial lawyer on your side who has a record of successes against both the state and federal governments. When significant prison time and other penalties are possible, don’t risk your freedom. Contact our law firm today.
What Legal Defenses Are Available for Drug Distribution Charges?
If you find yourself charged with drug distribution, both federal and Ohio penalties are severe. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may believe that there’s no hope. In fact, this is why many people choose to accept a plea deal — often without first consulting with an attorney. This is a mistake, and it’s why American jails and prisons have a troubling percentage of innocent people behind bars. However, you don’t have to become one of these statistics. There are a variety of legal defenses to drug distribution charges:
- Lack of intent to distribute: It’s possible to prove that the drugs discovered were for personal use
- Unlawful search and seizure: Any evidence against you collected due to violations of your constitutional rights may be inadmissible during trial
- Lack of knowledge/control: It’s possible to argue that you didn’t know the drugs were in your possession, or that you had no control over them
- Entrapment: Law enforcement cannot coerce or pressure you into committing a crime that you otherwise would not have committed
- Mistaken identity: People are frequently wrongfully identified as others
- Lack of evidence: The burden of proof rests on the prosecution, not the accused
- Chain of custody issues: If there was a break in the chain of custody of key evidence, you may be able to argue that the evidence is not reliable
- Accepted medical use: Drugs are not illegal when they have an accepted medical use and have been prescribed to someone
- Alibi: Someone may be able to attest to the fact that you were not present during the commission of a crime
- Mistake of fact: If you can show that you were unaware of the drugs or that the substances were drugs, you may have a valid defense
While any of these legal defenses could result in charge dismissal or a not guilty verdict, it’s important to remember that they won’t be relevant in every case. You need to speak with a Cleveland drug distribution attorney who can review the charges against you and help build an effective defense strategy — which could include approaches not mentioned above. You don’t have to go through these difficulties alone, and you should never choose to do so. Don’t let the government take advantage of you. Contact our law firm today.
Contact a Drug Distribution Lawyer in Cleveland Today
When someone is arrested for drug distribution in Ohio, their primary concern is typically whether they’ll face jail time. However, this fear often overlooks the fact that these charges are typically far more serious than expected. In fact, drug distribution laws usually mean that a person could find themselves in prison — sometimes far away from home when charged with common federal drug crimes — rather than a local jail. The consequences could not be more dire, so establishing reasonable doubt is an absolute necessity.
At HMW Law, we’ve seen the lengthy prison sentences and lifelong consequences that a distribution charge can result in. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor marijuana charge or a first-degree felony, the stakes couldn’t be any higher. You need a Cleveland drug distribution lawyer who will fight to secure the best possible outcome in your case, and that’s precisely what you’ll find at our law firm. Do not wait to get help! Our firm has an exceptional reputation amongst the community, with thousands of client success stories.
With client satisfaction as our #1 priority, you do not have to worry about being just another case number when you call our Cleveland drug charges law firm. Fight your drug distribution charges and be sure to call HMW Law at 216-369-1352. We offer free initial case evaluations!