If you have been charged with a Minnesota prescription drug crime, the penalty can be quite severe depending on the nature of the crime. However, there are steps you can take that may reduce the severity of the penalty. Actually, with the proper representation, you may not have to spend any time in jail. The penalties for prescription drug crimes range from 0 – 30 years in prison and/or excessive fines. If you have been accused of a crime involving prescription drugs, here is a breakdown of what type of penalties that you may be looking at.
SALE OF DRUGS DEFENSE LAWYER MINNEAPOLIS, MN
If you sell cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, other narcotics, hallucinogens, or marijuana you may be penalized with the severest form of jail time and fines. Depending on the amount that you sell, the crime is categorized in any of the following ways:
- First degree (maximum sentence of 30 years and a fine of up to 1 million dollars).
- Second degree (maximum sentence of 25 years and a fine of up to $500,000.
- Third degree (maximum sentence of 25 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
- Fourth degree (maximum sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to $100,000).
- Fifth degree (maximum sentence of 30 years and a fine of up to$10,000).
POSSESSION OF DRUGS
The penalties for possessing drugs are the same as selling them with one exception. The only difference is that the degree (first, second, third, and so on) is considered based on the amount that if found on your person.
What should you do if you are faced with such a prescription drug crime? The seriousness of the offense is no time to take chances. If you value your freedom, reputation, and money, here are three important steps you should take to help minimize the situation.
DO NOT TALK TO POLICE AUTHORITIES
This may seem like a lack of cooperation, but it’s really for your best. You are under no obligation to speak any words to a police officer even if you have been arrested. If you haven’t been arrested but the police have contacted you and want to ask questions, it’s important that you do not answer. Unless they have a warrant for your arrest, you are under no obligation to even allow them in your home if they show up. And if arrested, tell them you need to speak to an attorney first.
CONTACT A MINNESOTA PRESCRIPTION DRUG CRIME ATTORNEY
An attorney who specializes in prescription drug crimes will have the experience and expertise to fight for you. Trying to handle the situation on your own could lead to tragic results. Furthermore, if you select any attorney, they may not know the specific laws regarding drug crimes. Contacting a person who has fought and won cases similar to yours is important. You want an attorney you can trust to stand by your side in court.
TAKE NOTES
Begin taking personal notes about all the details of the situation. You may think you’ll remember everything, but when it comes down to it, you need to document everything to show your attorney. Keep a small notebook and write down everything that’s happened. Continue to add to it if anything new comes to mind or happens. Then when you meet with your attorney, you will be organized and ready to get down to business. This allows your attorney more time to create your defense.
At Speas Law Firm, we specialize in prescription drug crimes. We bring our clients over 25 years of experience, perseverance, and a hard-work ethic. Contact Speas Law Firm today to find out how they can fight for you. Don’t face prescription drug crimes alone, our staff is standing by to assist you today