Springfield Drug Charge Attorney

Defending against Serious Drug-Related Allegations in the Springfield Area

Ohio legislators and law enforcement authorities take drug crimes very seriously. Ohio law sets out harsh penalties for drug-related offenses, and law enforcement aggressively prosecutes suspected offenders. Drug crime convictions can have a severe impact on many aspects of your life, and you should always understand all of your options for criminal defense and the protection of your rights. Anyone accused of a drug crime should contact a skilled Springfield drug charge defense attorney at The VanNoy Firm as soon as possible.

Unlawful Drugs in Ohio

Both Ohio and the federal government classify certain substances as “controlled dangerous substances.” While some controlled substances are “hard drugs” or “street drugs,” many of them are prescription drugs that you may only possess with a valid prescription. Possessing even a single pill or giving away a single pill without authority can result in serious criminal charges, even if it is medication with a valid medical purpose. 

Some controlled substances that are often the subject of criminal cases include:

• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• Ecstasy/Molly/MDMA
• Opioid painkillers
• Adderal and related medications

Each drug is classified in a certain “schedule” depending on its potential for harm and abuse, as well as possible medical benefits. The higher the schedule, the more severe the drug charges and penalties can be. 

Types of Drug Charges and Possible Penalties

Charges and penalties will also depend on the specific drug-related conduct in a particular case. Each charge has its own specific elements, and you want a lawyer who knows how to defend against your specific charges. Some common offenses The VanNoy Firm handles include:

• Possession of a controlled dangerous substance
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Possession of drugs with the intent to distribute
• Possession of drug compounds or related chemicals
• Manufacturing or cultivation
• Sales and distribution
• Trafficking

Most drug charges in Ohio are felony charges, and the potential penalties for a conviction will vary depending on the specific charge, the type of controlled substance, and the quantity involved. For example, possessing a small amount of marijuana for personal use is a misdemeanor charge, while selling or trafficking large amounts of heroin will be a significantly more serious felony. Some possible penalties for a drug conviction include:

• Imprisonment
• Fines from $150 up to $20,000
• Probation
• Permanent criminal record

The penalties can increase if you have prior convictions or if other aggravating factors exist in your case. 

Common Drug Crime Defenses

There are many ways to defend against serious drug crimes, including:

• Illegal searches and 4th Amendment violations
• Insufficiency of the prosecutor’s evidence
• Forensic lab errors
• Illegal traffic stops
• Demonstrating a valid prescription
• Challenging allegations of intent to distribute
• Challenging constructive possession

It is important to discuss your charges with a knowledgeable drug crime lawyer in Springfield who can identify all possible options for your defense. 

Contact an Experienced Springfield Drug Charge Attorney Right Away

The VanNoy Firm regularly defends against drug-related charges, helping clients obtain the best possible outcome in each case. We work to get charges dropped or dismissed, or to obtain reduced charges and sentences whenever possible. Contact us today to learn how we might help.