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Being charged with any kind of drug crime is a serious matter that can result in hefty fines, prison time, and a permanent criminal record. The only way to grasp what’s truly at stake is to understand the kind of offense you’re being accused of committing. Drug crimes may be handled on either a state or federal level, and the consequences can vary for each. Although a criminal law attorney will know exactly how to approach your defense depending on the circumstances of your case, it’s important to have clarification on the allegations being brought against you. Here’s what you need to know if you’re facing drug charges. 

State Drug Violations 

It is a crime in every state to possess, manufacture, distribute, or traffic controlled substances. As such, most drug offenses are considered a state violation. Some of the most common drug charges in Montana involve marijuana, methamphetamines, opiates, cocaine, and heroin.

criminal lawIf convicted of a drug offense, the penalties will be based on the type of drug and amount found in the defendant’s possession. For example, marijuana use is prohibited by Montana state law unless it has been authorized for medicinal purposes. A first conviction for possession can result in a maximum fine of $500 and up to six months in jail. Illegal manufacture of up to 1 pound of marijuana is punishable with a maximum fine of $5,000 and a prison sentence of up to 10 years.

Federal Drug Violations 

Possessing, manufacturing, distributing, and trafficking controlled substances are unlawful at the federal level, as well. Thus, there is the potential to be brought up on felony charges for any of these violations. Generally, this only occurs when the offense takes place on federal property, state lines were crossed, or a federal officer was witness to the illegal activity. Drug trafficking, in particular, is one of the most serious federal crimes, which means there is quite a bit on the line when facing a potential conviction. The services of a criminal law attorney should be retained right away to fight the severe penalties associated with felony drug crimes.

 

Whether you’ve been charged with a state or federal drug crime, you need to be represented by a criminal law attorney who is backed by a track record of success. For more than 35 years, Lane K. Bennett, Attorney at Law, has been entrusted to protect the reputation and freedom of residents throughout Montana’s Flathead Valley region. He has extensive knowledge of drug laws and experience presenting cases in both state and federal courts. You can rely on him to aggressively defend you and provide the best chance of getting an acquittal or having your charges dropped. Call (406) 752-7300 to arrange a free consultation, or visit his website for more information about his criminal law services.

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