Getting arrested and charged with drug possession can put your entire future in jeopardy. Ohio’s drug defense sentencing and penalties rank among the strictest in the country. If you hope to clear your name of these charges, you may need a Dublin drug possession defense lawyer to fight for your legal rights and work to get you the best possible outcome for your case.
Ohio’s premier criminal defense firm for over 30 years, Koffel Brininger Nesbitt is here to help defend your case. Regardless of whether it’s your first offense or if you have prior charges, an experienced Dublin drug crime lawyer will work with you to determine the severity of your case and the charges leveled against you based on the type and amount of drugs involved. Contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss potential consequences defense strategies, and even explore alternative options.
Defending Against Ohio Drug Possession Laws
Drug possession charges can result in life-altering repercussions, and it is important to understand the legal rights you have. Most drug possession charges are tried at the misdemeanor level, but depending on the type and amount of drugs, it can also be upgraded to a felony. Your drug possession defense lawyer in Dublin can help you break down the charges set against you and determine the best course of action in your defense.
A Dublin criminal defense lawyer will help review the state’s case against you, compile a strong defense, challenge any evidence that could be considered inadmissible, and protect your rights. Potential defenses could include tampering with evidence, insufficient evidence to convict beyond a reasonable doubt, entrapment, or improperly obtained evidence.
Should the case brought against you be too strong, your lawyer will not just work to get your sentence reduced but also reduce the charges. Mitigating factors such as enrolling in a drug rehabilitation program could get your sentence reduced or could be used to get the judge to clear your name, opting for a better alternative. Negotiating a plea deal might also be an option that your drug possession defense lawyer could recommend.
For a free legal consultation with a possesion of drug lawyer serving Dublin, call 614-884-1100
Ohio Controlled Substances Schedule
Under Chapter 3719 of Ohio Law, controlled substances are ranked under schedules based on the risk of addiction, abuse, and harm. This, in addition to the amount of drugs involved, will determine the severity of your sentencing should you receive a conviction of drug possession in Dublin. This system of categorization of controlled substances ranges from Schedule I to Schedule V.
Schedule I
These drugs have the highest potential for addiction and abuse and are often referred to as “street drugs.” They have no recognized medical use, and the penalties for possession of Schedule I controlled substances are the most severe. Examples of Schedule I drugs include:
- Heroin
- LSD
- Marijuana (at the federal level)
- Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (also known as MDMA or Ecstasy)
- Mescaline
- Peyote
Schedule II
These drugs have a slightly lower potential for misuse than Schedule I but are at high risk for physical and psychological dependence. As prescribed medications, they are used for treating severe pain, anxiety, ADHD, and insomnia. Examples of Schedule II drugs include:
- Cocaine
- Fentanyl
- Hydromorphone
- Methadone
- Methamphetamine
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
Schedule III
Again, these drugs have a lower potential for abuse and addiction than I and II, but can still cause psychological dependence. Medications in this category are used for treating pain, as anesthesia, or as an appetite suppressant. Examples of Schedule III drugs include:
- Anabolic steroids
- Barbiturates
- Benzphetamine
- Ketamine
- Phendimetrazine
Schedule IV and V
These drugs have the lowest risk of addiction and dependency and have the least amount of penalties associated with them. Examples of Schedule IV drugs include Ambien, clonazepam, lorazepam, tramadol, and Xanax. Schedule V drugs include cough medicines with codeine, Lyrica, and antidiarrheal medications that contain atropine or diphenoxylate.
Marijuana Possession Laws in Ohio
Adult use of cannabis or recreational marijuana recently became legal under Ohio Law §3780. Under this new legislation, it is legal for adults over the age of 21 to possess up to 70 grams. Drug possession over that limit is punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 30 days and a maximum fine of $250.
Under federal law, marijuana is still considered a Schedule I controlled substance. If you are found to be in possession of more than 1,000 grams, you can be charged with felony drug possession. If you have questions regarding marijuana possession charges, contact a Dublin drug possession defense attorney from Koffel Brininger Nesbitt.
Dublin Possesion of Drug Lawyer Near Me 614-884-1100
Possible Penalties for a Drug Possession Conviction
Ohio courts treat drug possession cases with severe penalties for those who are convicted. How long you go to jail for drug possession in Ohio depends on the type and amount of the drug. Schedule I and II controlled substance possession charges can result in sentencing of up to 11 years in state prison and fines of up to $20,000.
If you are convicted of drug possession, you can face life-altering repercussions, including a permanent mark on your record, which will show up on background checks. This could deter and limit housing or employment opportunities in the future. Other collateral consequences can include losing professional licenses, temporarily suspended voting rights, and deportation or removal proceedings for people without United States citizenship.
If you are facing drug possession charges, do not delay in contacting an attorney from the law office of Koffel Brininger Nesbitt. A drug possession defense attorney in Dublin will work tirelessly to uphold your legal rights and work to bring about the best possible case outcome. Trust in the experience that comes with having over 15,000 former clients and case results that speak for themselves.
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Contact Dublin’s Leading Drug Possession Law Firm for Assistance Today
Working with a knowledgeable and aggressive Dublin drug possession defense lawyer can help you take control of your defense and understand your rights. Do not jeopardize your freedom by relying on a public defender. Our legal team has the resources, knowledge, and determination to fight for your case.
Do not delay getting started on your case. Request a confidential consultation today to discuss your case with a Dublin drug possession defense attorney and get any questions answered. Call us or use our contact form to schedule a time to talk.
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