Getting Familiar With The Different Types Of Common Drug Crimes

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Getting Familiar With The Different Types Of Common Drug Crimes
If you've been accused of drug-related crimes, it's important to act fast. In New York and in many other states, drug crimes can carry some of the most serious penalties of any crimes.

However, an accusation is only the beginning. With the right attorney, you can mount a rigorous defense that may protect you from a drug conviction or significantly reduce penalties involved.

Before you take your first step toward a drug crime defense, you should do all the research possible in selecting the right attorney. That means not only doing the needed background reading, but talking to attorneys in person about their record-- so you can make the best decision.

What Kinds Of Drug Crimes Might Someone Be Accused Of In Suffolk County?

Although there are many different charges that might arise from possession or use of illegal drugs, most drug-related crimes typically fall into one or several of the following categories:.

Drug Possession.

Individuals can be accused of drug possession in a number of ways. The most serious is "actual" possession, in which drugs are found on your person.

While "actual" possession focuses on the behavior of individuals, "constructive" possession occurs when drugs are found in a private area or a vehicle where multiple people can access them.

Although drug possession is very serious, it can be the least serious of drug crimes. For cases of constructive possession, it is often possible to argue that the drugs were there without the defendant's knowledge or consent.

Drug Sales And Distribution.

If a large amount of any drugs are found, prosecutors typically argue that there was an "intent to distribute" or sell. Intent to sell is conceptually separate from actually selling drugs, but is more serious than possession.

In the event that you have been in a situation where you had "constructive possession" of a large amount of drugs, your defense might take a similar tack to a drug possession charge. Likewise, you may need to assert that your past conduct and behavior does not indicate intent to sell.

Drug Manufacturing.

Drug manufacturing is rapidly becoming one of the most serious drug crimes prosecuted across the U.S. In addition to manufactured drugs, items called "precursors"-- essentially, ingredients for drugs-- are also illegal.

In the wake of shows like "Breaking Bad," prosecutors are looking more closely at issues like copycat crimes and trying to "send a message" to the public. Now more than ever, it's critical to have an attorney well-versed in drug laws.