PROVIDENCE DRUG CRIMES LAWYER
Drug crimes are among the most common of all criminal charges in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts courts. Individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels can find themselves charged with the possession of drugs ranging from marijuana to cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, designer drugs, and unauthorized prescriptions medicines, such as OxyContin, Vicodin, Adderall, Xanax, and more. Unfortunately, you could be facing penalties ranging from probation with community service hours to time spent in jail or prison, depending on the circumstances.
At The Law Office of Brett V. Beaubien, our Providence drug crimes attorney is well-grounded in the laws, penalties, and defenses that can be used in all types of drug charges. Attorney Beaubien knows how to thoroughly investigate cases to uncover flaws in the prosecutor’s evidence that can be used in your favor. Because the state’s case must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, many missteps, inconsistencies, unreliable witnesses, or more may be available to reduce or dismiss your charges. We will do everything possible on your behalf to help you receive an optimum outcome.
Reach out to The Law Office of Brett V. Beaubien to book your free initial consultation in our Rhode Island office with our Providence drug crimes attorney by contacting us at (401) 246-8579. Hablamos español. Also serving clients in Bristol County, Attleboro, Norfolk County, Providence County& throughout Rhode Island & Massachusetts.
RHODE ISLAND DRUG CRIMES
Recreational pot is illegal in the state of Rhode Island but perfectly legal in the state of Massachusetts. If you cross the state line with a bag of cannabis candy in your car, you may face criminal or civil charges. The type of drug you are charged with possessing as well as the amount found in your possession can affect the sentence you will receive when convicted.
Additionally, your actions in connection with the drug are pertinent, such as whether it was for your own personal use or its intended purpose was for sales or distribution. As with any crime, the number of previous offenses you have will make a big impact on the sentence you will receive.
Drug crimes in Rhode Island can include the following:
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of controlled substances
- Possession with intent to distribute or sell
- Sales and/or distribution
- Drug manufacturing or cultivation
- Drug trafficking
- Prescription drug forgery or fraud
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Violations of the Medical Marijuana Act
- Conspiracy
Marijuana Offenses in Rhode Island
Marijuana possession and related crimes are penalized separately from other controlled substances in Rhode Island. For example, possession of less than one ounce is penalized by a $150 civil fine. Possession of between one ounce and one kilogram is charged as a misdemeanor carrying up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Felony possession of marijuana involves higher quantities that can lead to 10 years up to life in prison along with fines ranging up to $500,000.
Possession of Other Controlled Substances & Their Criminal Penalties
Possession and related crimes involving drugs other than marijuana are all felony charges in Rhode Island. However, in some cases, you may receive a lighter sentence if you suffer from addiction. For example, an addict charged with possession of cocaine may be eligible for the Rhode Island Adult Drug Court Program which focuses on recovery involving a year of drug treatment, drug screenings, and progress reporting court appearances. Satisfactory completion of the program can result in the expungement of the offense from your criminal record.
Possession penalties for controlled substances can include:
- Fines of $500 up to $5,000
- Prison time of up to three years
- Community service of up to 100 hours
- Drug counseling and/or education
- Loss of your driver’s license for six months up to a year
- Payment of $400 into a drug education program
Convictions for crimes other than possession can be even more severe.
Put Our Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyer on Your Side
A drug conviction on your record can seriously hamper your future in terms of finding employment, housing, being eligible for advanced education, or qualifying for professional licenses. Attorney Beaubien can defend you by challenging the legal elements of your crime with a strategically-prepared defense. Our goal is to help you avoid or minimize serious consequences.
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Contact The Law Office of Brett V. Beaubien today to get started with our Providence appeals attorney.