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Pittsburgh’s Expert Drug Possession Defense Attorney
It’s well-known that both Pennsylvania state and federal law prohibit the possession and use of controlled substances. This covers a broad range of drugs from street narcotics like “crack” (crack cocaine), heroin, “acid” (LSD), “ecstasy” (MDMA), and “pot” (marijuana) to prescription-only medications such as Adderall, Ambien, and Xanax. Getting caught with any of these without the appropriate prescription puts you or any loved one facing charges in a precarious legal situation. In times like these, what you need is the knowledgeable assistance of Pittsburgh’s own Sean Logue — a seasoned drug possession Pittsburgh criminal lawyer.
How a Pittsburgh Drug Possession Defense Attorney Can Assist You
Facing drug possession charges is alarming as they can have enduring and far-reaching effects on your life. Harsh consequences could await, including potential incarceration, hefty financial penalties, driver’s license suspension, and even community service requirements.
The stakes are particularly high for your professional standing. Depending on your line of work and the details of the charge, your employment could be jeopardized — a concerning situation for educators, childcare workers, and those in transportation like truck and taxi drivers.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to have a defense that not only reacts but anticipates. At Logue Law Group, we have a history of securing favorable outcomes like dismissed charges, reduced sentences, and full acquittals. With in-depth knowledge of prosecutorial strategies thanks to Sean Logue’s background as a former prosecutor, our Pittsburgh PFA lawyers target vulnerabilities in the case against you, such as procedural errors or evidentiary issues.
Choosing Sean Logue means selecting unwavering dedication to your drug charges case, backed by comprehensive courtroom experience in Pittsburgh. To benefit from this expertise, reach out for a no-cost legal consultation at 844.PITT.DUI.
Types of Drug Possession Charges We Handle
Logue Law Group is well-versed in the defense of a wide spectrum of drug possession allegations, from minor to severe, covering street drugs, prescription medicines, counterfeit prescriptions, and even drug-related paraphernalia. Below is a compilation of specific charges we’re equipped to tackle:
- Possession of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and more
- Possession of prescription drugs without lawful prescriptions
- Charges related to possession of drug paraphernalia (like pipes or bongs)
- All categories of controlled substances, from Schedule V to Schedule I
- Charges of Simple Possession as well as Possession with Intention to Distribute
Whether you’re an adult or juvenile defendant, you’ll find in Sean Logue an advocate ready to preserve your rights, answer pressing legal questions, and diligently work towards a positive resolution to your case.
Understanding Penalties for Drug Possession in Pennsylvania
Drug possession charges in Pennsylvania come with consequences that vary greatly. Several factors will influence the severity of the penalties such as:
- The Type and Amount of Drug: The penalties can vastly differ if you’re caught with 4 grams, 40 grams, or 400 grams of a substance.
- The Level of Charge: Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony possession makes a significant difference.
- Additional Factors: The presence of weapons, stolen vehicles, or other illegal items at the time of offense; or if the act occurred in vulnerable situations like near children or while in charge of their care.
- Criminal History: Previous drug offenses can lead to harsher sentences.
- Intoxicated Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence with drugs in your possession could enhance penalties.
Depending on the categorization of the offense as either a felony or misdemeanor, below are the penalties one might face:
Misdemeanor Drug Possession Penalties
- Third Degree
- Fine – Maximum of $5,000
- Jail Time – Up to 1 year
- Second Degree
- Fine – Maximum of $5,000
- Prison Sentence – Up to 2 years
- First Degree
- Fine – Maximum of $10,000
- Prison Sentence – Up to 5 years
Felony Drug Possession Penalties
- Third Degree
- Fine – Maximum of $15,000
- Prison Sentence – Up to 7 years
- Second Degree
- Fine – Maximum of $25,000
- Prison Sentence – Up to 10 years
In certain situations, penalties may increase notably. For instance, possession with intent to deliver (PWID) heroin can lead to a fine as high as $250,000—substantially more than the standard for felonies.
The state’s Controlled Substances Act outlines what falls under misdemeanor including:
- First-time simple possession
- Drug paraphernalia possession
- Small quantity of marijuana personal use (less than 30 grams)
- Subsequent simple possession offenses
Felony charges cover more serious offenses such as:
- First-time simple possession of GHB
- Intent to deliver various drugs (marijuana, cocaine, heroin, MDMA, methamphetamine, other narcotics, PCP)
- Subsequent offenses for possession of GHB
Legal Representation for Drug Possession in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania holds strict drug laws under the federal Controlled Substances Act, leading to severe repercussions for controlled substance possession, including paraphernalia and production equipment. Pittsburgh DUI attorney Sean Logue possesses the expertise and experience to vigorously protect your rights, whether facing trial or aiming for a settlement.
It’s imperative to act quickly if you’re facing an investigation or charges for narcotics possession, PWID, or related crimes in Pittsburgh. For immediate assistance and a complimentary case evaluation, reach out to our legal team.