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3 Questions You Need to Ask When Facing Marijuana Charges

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime involving marijuana, there are several important questions you need to ask in order to build a case and move forward.

If you’ve been charged with a crime related to drugs, you aren’t alone. Each year, adults across the country face marijuana charges. Whether you are guilty of the charges against you or you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, there are a few things you need to ask yourself when you’re facing these charges. Asking these questions and considering the answers will help you move forward effectively, logically, and appropriately. Remember: just because you’ve been accused of a crime doesn’t mean you’ve been convicted. Taking the right steps after you’ve been accused is one of the most important things you can do to improve your chances of having a positive outcome from your trial.

How was the evidence obtained?

First off, make sure you understand how the evidence against you was obtained. Did an officer simply note that they “smelled” marijuana when they were close to you? Did they see the drug in your possession? Did they perform an unlawful search and discover drugs in your vehicle? If you were charged with possessing marijuana, but the evidence was not obtained lawfully, it may not be able to be used in court against you. For example, if your car was searched without your permission and without a search warrant, the results of that search may not be used against you in court. Make sure you understand exactly how the evidence against you was obtained by law enforcement agents. One of the most powerful ways to fight drug offenses is to argue that the evidence was obtained unlawfully or without probable cause.

What are the charges?

It’s also important to understand exactly what the charges against you are. Keep in mind you may be facing multiple charges. You have the right to know what you are being accused of, so don’t be afraid to ask. Talk with your attorney about the charges you’re facing in order to formulate an effective defense when you go to court. The penalty for each charge may vary and will depend not only on the severity of the charge, but on your prior legal record, as well.

How can your attorney help?

Your first step when facing any legal issue is to meet with a lawyer who can defend you. Your attorney is an incredible asset. When you’re dealing with a legal problem on your own, you might feel confused or anxious. You don’t have to feel this way. Your lawyer will consider all of the evidence against you and help you come up with a reasonable defense plan to reduce the charges and minimize your sentencing.

Reach out to an attorney as soon as you are arrested. The sooner you speak with legal counsel, the sooner you can start formulating a plan to help you move forward from the charges you’re facing.