Arizona Drug Attorney
Arizona has a wide range of drug offenses some carrying severe penalties ranging from possession of Marijuana to the selling of dangerous drugs. Possession of Marijuana or drug paraphernalia seem to be the most common offenses and they are usually charged as a class 6 felony. If this is a first or second offense, an Arizona Statute referred to as ,Prop. 200 , provides for probation and no jail or prison time. In my experience these offenses usually occur when a person is either stopped for a traffic offense or involved in an accident and the police officer discovers the marijuana or drug either on the person or a search of the vehicle. I really try to get the charge dismissed, but if that is not possible then get it reduced to a misdemeanor.
Another option for first offenders and less serious drug cases is the "Adult Deferred Prosecution Program referred to as, TASC, where the person is required to attend classes and counseling and then the charges are dismissed on completion. Possession of dangerous drugs such as methamphetamine,cocaine, or other narcotic drug are usually filed as a class 6 felony and Prop. 200 is also available on a first offense with probation and no jail or prison. The penalties increase up to a class 2 felony for persons charged with possession of dangerous drugs for transportation or sale. If the amount of the drugs is above the threshold amount., meaning more than for personal use, then there is mandatory prison time.The prison time can be substantial depending on the circumstances and the amount of drugs involved. Needless to say,if the person has a previous conviction then the prison time increases.
Larry G. Ruch- Attorney at Law
There are many options available to a person charged with a drug offense including whether or not Prop. 200 applies or if the person can be placed in the TASC program. Sometimes there is an illegal search by the law enforcement officer and the drugs or evidence can be suppressed. Also, if the prosecutors case is not very good a person always has a right to a trial. Unlike most attorneys I usually do not charge additional attorney fees for a trial as I believe a person should not forfeit their constitutional right to a trial because they cannot pay the extra attorney fees. I have over 35 years experience in criminal defense all in Arizona.
