Strategic And Effective Drug Crime Defense
Key Takeaways
- Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn, PC, defends Virginians in local, state, and federal courts against drug crime charges.
- Drug crimes range from possession to distribution and trafficking, with penalties varying based on the drug schedule and amount.
- Virginia classifies drugs into schedules (I-V), with Schedule I drugs (like heroin) carrying the most severe penalties.
- Drug crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, with felonies resulting in harsher penalties and a lasting criminal record.
- The firm aims to have drug charges classified as misdemeanors and then dismissed, protecting clients’ futures.
If you have been charged with a drug crime, you need to act promptly to increase your chances of a successful defense before a judge or jury. A drug crime conviction can severely limit your future opportunities in life.
At Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn, we support our clients’ best interests when defending Virginians in local, state and federal courts.
Drug Charges That Our Clients Face
Our defense lawyers often represent clients after they have been charged with offenses such as:
- Possession of unlawful amounts of marijuana, possession of scheduled narcotics, and prescription drugs obtained without prescriptions
- Distribution of marijuana and other controlled substances
- Possession and distribution of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute
- Trafficking of cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and other illegal narcotics
- Manufacture or cultivation of controlled substances
Virginia’s Drug Schedules
The Commonwealth of Virginia determines the seriousness of drug crimes partially by classifying drugs into “schedules,” or levels that indicate potential hazards that certain drugs represent, as follows:
- Schedule I drugs have no accepted medical use and carry high risks of abuse. Examples are heroin and LSD.
- Schedule II drugs may have limited medical uses, but they also have a high potential for abuse. Examples are cocaine and methamphetamines.
- Schedule III drugs, such as steroids and Tylenol 3 (with codeine), have moderate potential for dependency as well as common medical applications.
- Schedule IV drugs, such as Valium and Xanax, have more widespread medical use and less potential for abuse than drugs in schedules I-III.
- Schedule V drugs are not actually drugs, but rather, substances that people use for pleasurable sensations. Substances such as nitrous oxide found in aerosols are included in this category.
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies
Many of the drug crimes described above are classified as misdemeanors. However, some may be felonies with potentially harsh penalties in addition to the harmful consequences of a felony on one’s criminal record.
Examples of felony drug crimes include the following:
- Knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription
- Possess any substance listed as a Schedule I or Schedule II substance from the lists above
- Possess large amounts of marijuana, typically considered to be evidence of the intent to distribute
If we defend you in a drug crime case, we will first argue to have your charges classified as misdemeanors. We will then work hard to get your charges dismissed altogether, if possible.
Why Hire an Experienced Drug Charge Criminal Defense Attorney?
Legal representation by an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney offers essential benefits:
- They can help you understand the charges against you and your options for defense strategies.
- They can ensure that law enforcement and the court respect your constitutional rights.
- They have inside knowledge of the criminal justice system.
- They will tirelessly and zealously fight for you, whether you enter a plea agreement or take the case to trial.
The drug charge defense lawyers at Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn use their experiences as police officers and prosecutors to help them defend their clients in criminal cases. They work hard to uncover the truth. This means taking a close look at all the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and conducting their own investigations of the state’s allegations. They have the experience, agility, and passion to give real people real representation.
Testimonials
We are fully prepared and wholeheartedly committed to helping you tackle your unique case. Whether you need help with criminal defense, family law, personal injury, or real estate law, Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn has you covered. Listen to what some of our satisfied clients have to say.
Chrystie S.: “Mr. Randall and his team provided excellent legal support during my case. Would give 10 stars if I could!”
Mel C.: “The best lawyer there is! Hire him now if you are in trouble with the law! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! The staff were wonderful! Communication was phenomenal. I didn’t have to worry about everything. Thank you for taking care of me!
Jim H.: “I feel very fortunate to have chosen Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn. What a great team! Kevin Frank represented me in traffic court and delivered great results. I would not hesitate to recommend Randall, McClenney, Daniels & Dunn.”
Consult Now with a Drug Crime Defense Attorney
We are here to help. Call 757-742-6115 or fill out our contact form to schedule an initial consultation. Our Virginia criminal defense lawyers have primary office locations in Virginia Beach, Southampton, Emporia, Hopewell, Brunswick, and Suffolk.
Written By Jack T. Randall
As lifelong resident of Western Tidewater, Jack Randall is a local attorney who wants the best results for his clients. He is an experienced and aggressive attorney with focus on family law, criminal and traffic law, as well as personal injury law cases.
