Weaverville Drug Crime Lawyer

Weaverville Drug Crime Attorney

Drug laws across the United States are constantly evolving, and North Carolina is no exception. A simple mistake or lack of knowledge about these laws may land a Weaverville resident in serious trouble. If you have been accused of a drug-related crime, a Weaverville drug crime lawyer can educate you about your rights and options.

Our knowledgeable legal team at Edwards Law, PLLC, offers you or your loved one comprehensive legal support if you face drug-related charges. We serve Buncombe County and surrounding communities.

Comprehensive Defense for Drug Crimes in North Carolina

From the most complex drug crime to the simplest possession charge, our criminal defense team ensures that every case is handled with the resources necessary to succeed.

We capitalize on our extensive knowledge of North Carolina drug crimes and years of practice litigating these types of cases to assist clients facing the following charges:

• Drug Possession: Possessing a small quantity of a controlled or illegal substance for personal use.
• Drug Possession With Intent to Sell, Deliver, or Manufacture: Possession of a quantity of controlled or illegal substances with the intent to sell (including counterfeit controlled substances).
• Drug Trafficking: Possessing, transporting, or selling a large quantity of controlled or illegal substances.
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: Owning or possessing items that are intended for use in drug consumption or distribution, for example, scales, pipes, and syringes.   
• Prescription Drug Fraud: Obtaining prescribed medication through fraud, including forging prescriptions, impersonating a medical professional, or providing false information.

Drug charges can be complex, and having a skilled attorney who can parse through the evidence and break down a charge is essential as you fight an accusation and work to reduce the consequences of a drug conviction.

Drug Crime Penalties and Consequences

Drug crime penalties in Weaverville vary depending on multiple factors, including the nature of the charge, the type of drug or drugs seized, and whether it is a first-time offense.

North Carolina Statute § 90-95 provides an overview of how drug crimes are classified in the state and how aggravating factors can contribute to a sentence. Many drug crimes in North Carolina are charged as felonies, which can incur serious consequences.

A first-time possession charge for use of a Schedule VI substance is charged as a Class 3 misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 20 days in confinement. A charge of possession with intent to sell a Schedule I or II substance is considered a Class G felony, which can mean up to 47 months in confinement.

An attorney can provide specific information about potential penalties for a drug crime by looking at the facts of your case.

Besides potentially lengthy prison time, those convicted of a drug crime may have their assets seized and their professional license suspended or terminated. A criminal record can have lasting consequences in a person’s life even after serving a sentence of a criminal defense case.

Our Weaverville Drug Crime Lawyer Represents Your Interests

Drug crimes are taken seriously in the state and in Buncombe County in particular. In 2023, the total number of drug-related arrests in the county was 625, which was almost triple that of other surrounding counties, such as Rutherford and McDowell Counties, and slightly higher than Haywood County.

It is important that you do not minimize the potential consequences of a drug charge, especially if it is a felony charge. You are encouraged to work with a criminal defense attorney who understands North Carolina drug crimes in depth and has worked with local Weaverville police and Buncombe County courts when representing clients.

At Edwards Law, PLLC, we have served Western North Carolina communities for over a decade. Our seasoned Weaverville drug crime lawyer can work with you at each stage of the criminal defense process:

• We can speak on your behalf in front of authorities, including investigators.
• We can negotiate with prosecutors to obtain a favorable plea or reduction of charges.
• We can provide rigorous representation in court, presenting evidence to secure an acquittal.

You are kept informed every step of the way when you work with our team.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Drug Crime Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

A: The cost of a drug crime lawyer in North Carolina varies depending on multiple factors. Attorneys with more extensive years of practice and who have worked on drug-related cases may charge a higher fee than more inexperienced attorneys or those who are not as knowledgeable about North Carolina drug crime laws. The complexity of a case also influences how much a client may pay for representation.

Q: What Evidence Is Needed for a Drug Conviction?

A: To obtain a drug conviction, a prosecutor must present evidence that a defendant has violated North Carolina’s drug laws. This may include any substances confiscated following a lawful search and any testimony from witnesses or digital or physical evidence showing the defendant knowingly possessed the controlled substance with the intent to consume, sell, or traffic it.

Q: Do Drug Offenders Go to Jail if It Is a First-Time Offense in NC?

A: First-time drug offenders may not be required to go to jail in North Carolina if they are convicted of drug possession or possession of drug paraphernalia. Though there is a maximum confinement time for a Class 3 misdemeanor, a non-violent, first-time offender may only receive a sentence of probation, drug education, or rehabilitation per NC § 90-96: Conditional discharge for first offense.

Q: What Is the Minimum Sentence for a Drug Charge?

A: Minimum sentences may not apply for drug possession or possession of drug paraphernalia, as well as other minor drug charges. There is, however, a minimum sentence for drug trafficking, which includes a minimum of 25 months for trafficking marijuana and 70 months for opiates, for example. It is key that you work with a skilled attorney who can help you avoid prison time.

Speak With a Trusted Weaverville Drug Crime Lawyer

The repercussions of a drug conviction can be severe. You may feel like all hope is lost if you face a drug charge. Regardless of the accusation, you are afforded rights under the law and deserve to be represented by a trusted attorney who can fight on your behalf.

Edwards Law, PLLC, understands that every case is unique. We can analyze all aspects of your case and communicate clearly throughout the process, informing you of your rights and options. When you work with us, you can trust that you are served by a representative who has extensive years of practice defending clients against drug crimes. Contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation.