Reno Drug Lawyer | Possession and Distribution Charges

When you are convicted of a drug crime such as possession, distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing of controlled substances, you could face lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. Contact a Reno drug lawyer to defend you when you are charged with a drug offense.

We understand how stressful it is to face a criminal prosecution. At the Law Offices of John Arrascada, we can work to mitigate the potential consequences of your drug charge and protect your rights. Pleading guilty or being convicted of a drug charge could mean a permanent record, which could impact where you can live, work, and more. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney has extensive experience representing those charged with drug crimes and will develop a unique approach to your individual case. John Arrascada is the knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer that you need.

Types of Drug Crimes

In Nevada, it is unlawful to possess, distribute, or manufacture controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and LSD. Possessing prescription medication like Xanax, OxyContin, or Adderall without a prescription is a crime. Simple possession of marijuana is legal in the state, but the sale or manufacturing of it in large quantities is a crime.

Criminal charges that involve the possession, sale, distribution, or trafficking of a controlled substance are felonies and carry significant penalties. Drug crimes fall into the following categories:

Possession: Someone is found with drugs but was not selling
Possession with intent: Someone is found with drugs and intended to sell or distribute the substance
Manufacturing: The unlawful production of a controlled substance
Trafficking: Is a crime based on the weight of the controlled substance within your possession

Potential penalties for drug crimes often depend on the type and quantity of drug, so it is beneficial to discuss the nature of the crime with a Reno drug lawyer. Distribution and trafficking charges carry more serious penalties, including mandatory prison, based on the weight and amount of the drugs in ones possession.. Prosecutors tend to target those involved in the distribution or trafficking of drugs as opposed to those who simply possess an illegal substance.

Defenses to Drug Charges

Those accused of a drug offense should discuss potential defenses with a Reno drug lawyer, as there may be grounds to have evidence suppressed or charges dropped. Some common defenses include:

Illegal search and seizure: The Fourth Amendment guarantees the right to be free from unlawful searches and seizures. When officers conduct an illegal search, it is a violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights.
Suppression of evidence: Certain evidence must be suppressed either because it violates the defendant’s rights or the rules of evidence.
Insufficient evidence: Prosecutors must prove the crime charged beyond a reasonable doubt. If the state cannot meet its evidentiary burden, the court must dismiss the case
Lack of intent: Drug crimes require the prosecutor to prove the accused intended to distribute the controlled substance

John Arrascada recognizes the seriousness of the potential consequences associated with drug charges and uses his breadth of experience to advocate aggressively for a defendant’s rights.

Talk to a Reno Drug Attorney

When you are accused of a drug crime or believe you may be under investigation, call a Reno drug lawyer right away. If you contact an attorney at the outset, he can begin working on your case immediately. There are many defenses available to someone charged with a drug crime, and if prosecutors cannot make their case against you, we will advocate for the charges to be reduced or dropped.

A conviction related to a controlled substance could impact you for the rest of your life. The Law Offices of John Arrascada can help you defend against the charges and reduce the impact of the accusation. Reach out to discuss possible defenses.