Steadfast Drug Charge Defense Attorneys For Decatur And Fort Wayne Residents
Facing a criminal charge is a heavy burden that affects your family, your job and your future. At DeVoss, Baker, Ainsworth & Razo, A Professional Corporation, we provide unwavering legal support for those accused of controlled substance violations.
Since the 1880s, our firm has stood by neighbors in Northeast Indiana to help keep their rights protected. We focus on guiding you through the system with professional precision and a commitment to achieving a fair outcome.
Reviewing Charge Classifications And Penalties
Drug offenses in Indiana range from minor citations to severe felony cases. Our drug charges defense attorneys help you understand the specific level of your case and the potential consequences:
- Misdemeanor drug offenses: Often involving small amounts of marijuana or certain paraphernalia, these can lead to jail time and a permanent criminal record.
- Felony drug charges: Possession of substances like methamphetamine, cocaine or fentanyl often begins as a Level 6 felony.
- Aggravating factors: Larger quantities or enhancing circumstances can escalate charges to a Level 2 felony. Factors such as possessing a firearm or being near a school can lead to a sentence of up to 30 years in prison.
Indiana laws have recently shifted toward rehabilitation. Depending on the criminal case, we explore alternatives like electronic monitoring and specialized drug courts that prioritize treatment over incarceration. We examine every detail of your arrest to identify the most effective path forward for your defense.
Challenging Investigation Issues And Evidence
A steadfast defense often begins by questioning how the police gathered their evidence. We look for procedural errors and civil rights violations that could weaken the state’s case. Our drug crime lawyers focus on:
- Search and seizure rights: We verify if law enforcement had probable cause for a stop or a valid warrant for a search. If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, we file motions to suppress that evidence.
- Constructive possession challenges: If drugs were found in a shared space, like a car or apartment, the state must prove you had both knowledge of and control over the substance. We challenge these assumptions to protect those who were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.
- Lab accuracy and chain of custody: We scrutinize laboratory results for testing errors and confirm that the evidence was handled correctly from the moment of seizure to the courtroom.
By addressing these issues early, we help you manage court procedures with a clear and aggressive strategy.
Clear Answers For The Accused
We provide the direct information you need to make informed decisions about your future.
What penalties apply to drug charges in Indiana?
Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction can trigger a mandatory driver’s license suspension and the loss of professional licenses. For many, the most lasting penalty is a felony conviction status, which can permanently limit their housing options and eligibility for federal student loans.
What is the difference between felony and misdemeanor drug offenses?
The distinction often rests on the drug category and the weight. For example, possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana is typically a misdemeanor. However, possessing even a trace amount of a Schedule I or II substance, like cocaine or heroin, is automatically classified as a felony in Indiana.
How can a defense attorney challenge drug evidence?
We often challenge the legality of how evidence was found. If the police performed an illegal search, we can ask the judge to ignore that evidence. This frequently leads to reduced or dismissed charges.
Secure A Steadfast Defense To Protect Your Rights
Do not face the criminal justice system alone. Contact DeVoss, Baker, Ainsworth & Razo, A Professional Corporation, for the authoritative guidance your case requires. Call us at 866-715-7636 or fill out our online form to speak with a criminal defense lawyer in Decatur or Fort Wayne.