Cape Cod Drug Charges Attorney
Are you facing Drug Charges on Cape Cod?
Drug Charges In Cape Cod Carry Serious Fines And Penalites
Drug charges on Cape Cod can carry serious fines and penalties. Possession of a controlled substance is considered a misdemeanor offense, but depending on the amount of the drugs involved and the nature of the crime, it may be charged as a felony. Penalties for drug possession convictions can include:
- jail time, hefty fines,
- community service,
- probation
- mandatory drug counseling and more.
Furthermore, individuals convicted of drug charges may also face an uphill battle when attempting to gain employment or housing in the future due to their criminal record. It is important for anyone who has been charged with a drug crime to seek legal advice immediately to understand their rights and build the best defense possible..
What Happens When An Officer Decides To Charge you With A Drug Offense
When an officer decides to charge someone with a drug offense on Cape Cod, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting. If the person charged is under 21 years of age, they may face a suspension of their driver’s license or even more severe consequences. Additionally, being convicted of a drug offense can have long-term implications for future job prospects and educational opportunities.
The best solution for anyone facing criminal charges related to drug possession or distribution is to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who understands Massachusetts law and knows how to fight for your rights in court.
List of drug charges and sentences
- Possession of a Controlled Substance: Up to 1 year in prison and/or a fine of up to $100,000
- Distribution or Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance: 5 years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000
- Trafficking (Selling) a Controlled Substance: 10 years in prison and/or fines up to $1 million
- Possession with intent to Distribute or Manufacture: 10-20 years inprisonand/or fineofup$1million-$5million
Conspiracy Charges related To Drug Offenses:
Most Federal drug conspiracy laws carry the same penalties as if the offense had been completed by the defendant . This means that the sentence for conspiracy to distribute or manufacture drugs can reach up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $5 million.
Trafficking or Possession with intent to Sell a Controlled Substance within 1000 feet of School Zone:
This offense carries with it an additional penalty, which is an increase in the possible sentence. If convicted of trafficking or possession with intent to sell a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school, the penalty can reach up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia:
In Massachusetts, possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor offense which carries with it fines up to $500 and/or imprisonment in a house of correction for up to 6 months.
Subsequent Offenses:
In Massachusetts, if an individual has a prior conviction related to drug charges, subsequent offenses may be punished more harshly than first-time offenders. Depending on the type of drug offense and whether or not there were any aggravating circumstances, subsequent offenders may face a sentence that is up to double the statutory maximum.
If you are facing drug charges on Cape Cod, it is important that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand the possible penalties and defend your rights. An experienced attorney can also explore options. Contact Cape Cod Criminal Lawyer, Tom Kokonowski’s office today for assistance.