Lafayette Drug Possession Attorney

Providing Aggressive Defense for the Accused in Lafayette Parish, LA

Drug possession charges are among the most common drug charges in Louisiana. Possessing illegal narcotics is a serious crime, and state and federal laws impose harsh penalties on those convicted of drug possession. If you or someone you love is facing drug possession charges, you should act quickly to retain legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

At Precht Law Firm, we can provide the aggressive defense you need to fight your charges. Contact us online or call (337) 201-9119 today to speak with our experienced Lafayette drug possession lawyer.

What Is Drug Possession in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, drug possession is defined as having illegal drugs on your person or in your control. You do not have to own the drugs to be charged with possession. If you are found with drugs in your home or vehicle, you can be charged with possession even if the drugs are not yours. You can also be charged with possession if you have drugs in your system.

Police can search you, your home, or your vehicle and confiscate drugs if they have a warrant. However, they can also legally search you or your property without a warrant if they have probable cause. For example, if a police officer sees drugs in your vehicle during a traffic stop, they can legally search your vehicle and charge you with possession.

What Is Considered Drug Possession in Louisiana?

It is illegal to possess controlled dangerous substances (CDS) in Louisiana. CDS is a classification of drugs that includes both illegal narcotics and prescription medications.

Some illegal narcotics include:

• Cocaine
• Heroin
• LSD
• MDMA (ecstasy)
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Methamphetamine
• Crack cocaine
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• D-lysergic acid amide (LSA)

Drug Possession Penalties in Louisiana

In Louisiana, the penalties for drug possession are determined by state law, with the severity of consequences contingent on various factors. Being found in possession of illicit substances, including controlled dangerous substances (CDS), can lead to substantial legal ramifications. Common penalties for drug possession in Louisiana include fines, probation, mandatory drug education or treatment programs, and imprisonment. The harshness of the penalties is frequently impacted by the kind and quantity of the controlled substance in question.

Depending on their abuse potential and recognized medical uses, Louisiana classes drugs into different schedules. Substances listed as Schedule I, which are considered highly addictive and have no accepted medical use, typically carry more severe penalties. There may also be increased penalties if the possession occurs near schools, parks, or other designated drug-free areas.

It's crucial for individuals facing drug possession charges in Louisiana to seek legal counsel promptly. An experienced Lafayette drug possession attorney can assess the specifics of the case, challenge evidence, explore potential defenses, and work towards minimizing the legal consequences. Additionally, they may explore alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs or rehabilitation, depending on the circumstances of the case. Understanding the intricacies of drug possession laws in Louisiana and securing proficient legal representation can substantially influence the case's outcome.

Potential Defenses for Drug Possession in Louisiana

Crafting a defense is crucial when facing drug possession charges in Louisiana. Several potential defenses may be employed to challenge the accusations and seek a favorable outcome.

• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If authorities conducted an unauthorized search or seizure lacking a valid warrant or probable cause, any evidence obtained could be excluded from consideration in court.
• Lack of Possession Knowledge: Establishing that the accused was unaware of the presence of drugs or lacked knowledge about the substance can be a viable defense.
• Improper Handling of Evidence: The defense may scrutinize the handling and storage procedures of the seized drugs to ensure the integrity of the evidence.
• Mistaken Identity: In situations where problems arise in the identification process, such as instances of mistaken identity, this can be presented as a defense.
• Proving Prescription or Legitimate Use: If the accused had a valid prescription or a lawful reason for possessing the substance, providing proper documentation can serve as a defense.
• Crime Lab Analysis Challenges: Contesting the results of the crime lab analysis by questioning the accuracy and reliability of the testing procedures.

Navigating these defenses requires the expertise of a skilled Lafayette drug possession lawyer. Our legal professionals at Precht Law Firm can assess the details of the case, identify applicable defenses, and build a strategic legal defense tailored to the unique circumstances.

Our Lafayette Drug Possession Attorneys Can Help

If you find yourself facing drug possession charges in Lafayette, Louisiana, it's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney promptly. Contact Precht Law Firm to schedule a confidential consultation, and let us begin crafting a strategic defense to protect your rights and future.

Contact us online or call (337) 201-9119 today to speak with our experienced Lafayette drug possession lawyer.