Jefferson County Drug Crime Lawyers

Highly Experienced Festus, MO Law Firm Defending You Against Drug Charges

Drug crime charges are a serious matter capable of sending you to jail for a long time. Missouri has some of the most stringent drug laws in the country, and it shows in its drug sentencing cases. Having these charges leveled against you can take a toll on your life and reputation. This is why you need to hire highly skilled Festus, MO, drug crime defense attorneys like Grafe & Batchelor Attorneys at Law.

The goal of a drug crime defense is to build a solid case against the state or the prosecution. As experienced lawyers in Jefferson County, MO, we are passionate about fighting cases like this, and we are motivated to get clients a favorable result.

If you’d like to discuss your case with competent and committed lawyers, talk to us today. Call Grafe & Batchelor on 636-220-5934 to schedule a free consultation.

What are the Categories of Controlled Substances and Drugs in Jefferson County, MO?

While controlled dangerous substances are illegal across the US, every state has specific laws addressing each substance. The state of Missouri has five schedules of controlled dangerous substances.

Known as Schedule I-V, they are ranked in order of addiction, risk of abuse, and danger to the user. For example, Schedule I substances are those drugs or controlled substances that have no medical use or are considered too unstable for use even when the patient is undergoing supervised treatment at the hospital.

Schedule II drugs are often used in hospitals and for the treatment of certain conditions. However, they can put the user at risk for addiction when used excessively or without medical supervision. Many of these are opioids used for pain relief, like fentanyl, codeine, Vicodin, and OxyContin. Others are cocaine and methamphetamines.

Schedules III, IV, and V drugs often include those prescribed by the doctor and other over-the-counter medicines. Examples include weight loss pills, antidepressants, sleep medications, steroids, and anti-anxiety medications.

What About Marijuana?

While marijuana is used for recreational purposes in states like Colorado and California, Missouri has only approved it for medical purposes. This means that you will need a prescription to use it.

Even then, the widespread perception is that Marijuana is an illicit substance. That is why you may be charged with possession if you’re caught with it.

Call Grafe & Batchelor today at 636-220-5934 to schedule a free consultation if you’ve been caught with marijuana.

Possession of a Controlled Substance in Jefferson County, MO

If the Jefferson County law enforcement agents catch you with controlled substances, you could be looking at serious charges. The severity of the charges will largely depend on the drug type and the quantity you have on you.

Some classifications of drug charges are as follows:

• Class D Felony- applies to possession of all controlled substances, excluding possession of 35 grams or less of marijuana and/or other synthetic cannabinoids
• Class D Misdemeanor- applies if you’re caught with less than 10 grams of marijuana
• Class A Misdemeanor- applies to possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana plus a previous drug conviction. Also applies to possession of synthetic cannabinoids and imitation controlled substances. Can also apply if you’re caught with more than 10 grams but less than 35 grams of marijuana
• Class D Felony- possession of 35 grams or more of marijuana
• Class A & Class B Felony- applies to drug trafficking charges of controlled substances like heroin, cocaine, PCP, LSD, marijuana, meth, and molly (the date rape drug)
• Class E Felony- unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia

Please note that these charges are largely contingent on possession alone. If you’re caught with these drugs and it’s established that there’s a clear intent to distribute, deliver, or sell these controlled substances, you will likely get more severe charges.

What are the Penalties for Drug Charges in Jefferson County, MO?

If you’ve been arrested and charged on grounds of possession or trafficking, there are a few factors that the courts will consider before awarding penalties.

Some factors that can impact a drug conviction in Missouri include:

• Criminal history
• Whether it’s your first drug charge
• Quantity of substance
• Intent
• Type of crime- whether it’s possession or intent to distribute, sell, or produce
• The presence of mitigating factors

Drug crimes penalties in Festus, MO, are usually as follows:

• Depending on the quantity of drugs and the intent, first-time offenders can get an option of a treatment program and probation. Once completed, the charges against the person may be dismissed
• Fine of up to $500 for Class D misdemeanor- first-time offenders with less than 10 grams of marijuana
• First-time offenders with between 10 and 35 grams of marijuana or other drugs can pay a fine of up to $2000 and up to 1 year in prison because it’s a Class A misdemeanor
• Up to 7 years in prison for a Class C felony
• Between 5 and 15 years in jail with no option of parole for a Class B felony
• 10-30 years in jail (or a life sentence) with no option of parole for a Class A felony

Can I Be Charged with Aggravating Factors in a Drug Crime?

A drug crime conviction can lead to jail time, large fines, loss of employment, difficulty finding housing, and other consequences. However, matters become even more serious with aggravating factors. If you are being charged with trafficking, possession of drug paraphernalia, or other aggravating factors, you need immediate action from a trusted legal representative.

Some aggravating factors that could impact your drug offense case include:

• Drug paraphernalia possession
• Possession of large amounts of illegal substances
• Drug trafficking
• Possession of a deadly weapon along with drug possession
• Drug use in a drug-free zone, such as a school

For help defeating these and other related drug offenses, please get in touch with our team. Our Jefferson County law firm can help with your drug crime defense, even if you are facing serious aggravating charges. We’ll provide an aggressive defense so you don’t have to pay a higher price than you deserve.

What Defenses Can Be Used Against Jefferson County Drug Crimes?

Drug charges are taken very seriously in Jefferson County. Unfortunately, taking a strong position against illegal substance abuse can lead to innocent people paying for crimes they didn’t commit. If you have been charged with drug trafficking, possession, or another drug crime in Missouri, you should get in touch with drug crime defense lawyers like those at our law firm right away. Your attorney can develop a drug crime defense that matches your unique circumstances and gets you the best possible outcome.

Our Jefferson County legal team has extensive experience handling drug charges and many other criminal cases. We know what defenses can lead to a favorable outcome. We also recognize that a positive result is most likely when your defense team conducts a thorough investigation to uncover evidence that backs up your claim.

Our skilled attorneys use a wide range of defenses, including mistaken identity, lack of knowledge of the illegal drugs, illegal search and seizure, and more. We are ready to take on this serious matter as we defend your freedom and constitutional rights. Call our drug crime defense attorneys immediately for excellent legal advice and representation.

Why Do I Need a Jefferson County, Missouri Drug Crime Lawyer?

When you are arrested for a drug crime in Jefferson County, MO, the prosecution will not wait to build a case against you. It is critical to take urgent legal action to protect yourself. We urge you to comply with the police officer’s instructions while exercising your right to remain silent and consult a drug crime defense lawyer.

With a lawyer by your side, you can ensure that your constitutional rights are not violated during the arrest, search, or investigation. An attorney can also provide guidance during police questioning so you don’t accidentally incriminate yourself.

In many cases, a lawyer can negotiate a settlement outside of court, saving you from the harrowing and expensive court process. Unlike other law firms, our team of attorneys is not afraid to take the matter to trial when necessary. We’ll use our dedication, honesty, and attention to detail to provide a strong defense both in and out of the courtroom.

Call Grafe & Batchelor today to learn more about how you can benefit from our many years of experience in defeating this serious offense.

Should You Hire Our Jefferson County Drug Crime Lawyers?

As experienced drug crimes attorneys in Festus, MO, we know how to prepare a defense designed to help you get a favorable outcome. We promise to dedicate our time, energy, and determination as we seek for evidence that builds up your case. We are not afraid to take on complex legal matters, including drug trafficking charges, drug paraphernalia possession, possession of large amounts of drugs, and more.

We want to help clients fight criminal charges, and we aim for the best possible outcome, hopefully helping clients serve only a minimum time or do community service. Our team can do everything possible to calm and comfort you at this difficult time. You can rely on us for excellent legal services in your drug crime defense.

If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in Jefferson County, MO, you don’t have a moment to lose. Call Grafe & Batchelor today at 636-220-5934 to schedule a free consultation.