Birmingham Drug Crime Defense Lawyer

“Hazzard’s hard work/dedication to their clients and ensuring we receive the best outcomes as they were able to get my case dismissed,” “very communicative, professional, and transparent throughout,” “10/10 would recommend,” “totally honest and no hidden fees from the beginning,” “People complain all the time how attorneys don’t fight for them well that’s not Mrs. Hazzard,” “my friend when I needed someone there and was dealing with the mental and emotional trauma of everything and in the court room stood up for what was right.”

If these things are what you are looking for in a law firm, then contact us to see how we can help you and your family.

In Birmingham, Alabama, drug offenses range from possession to distribution, with varying degrees of severity under criminal law:

• Possession charges often involve smaller amounts of controlled substances for personal use, while distribution or trafficking charges typically carry harsher penalties in the criminal justice system. The type and quantity of the drug involved play important roles in determining whether an offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.
• Drug manufacturing and cultivation charges represent another serious category of offenses in Birmingham. These charges can lead to severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines upon conviction. Additionally, the state’s criminal law addresses prescription drug abuse, with offenses such as “doctor shopping” or forging prescriptions falling under this umbrella.

Being arrested for an intent to distribute charge is not the same as being arrested for a possession charge. If you have been arrested for possession with intent to distribute, that is a more serious crime with increased potential penalties over a standard possession crime. Intent to distribute includes the manufacturing and delivery of drugs. A person may also be arrested for drug paraphernalia related to manufacturing.

When a person is arrested with high quantities of drugs on them, the charge may be elevated to trafficking charges. Anything beyond a possession charge has the potential to lead to higher fines and longer jail time for the offender. Regardless of the severity of the charge against you, speaking with an experienced drug crime lawyer is a key first step in your fight for justice. The stakes are higher in terms of possible punishments, and this underscores your need to seek legal counsel from a drug crime defense lawyer.

It is important to know a few things about how Alabama handles drug crimes. First, not all cases are the same in the criminal courts. An arrest for a small amount of marijuana will not carry the same consequences as an arrest for class D drugs. Class D drugs (heroin, meth, cocaine, larger amounts of marijuana and other illicit drugs of this nature) are automatically an Alabama felony charge. A felony charge carries stricter punishments than a misdemeanor charge, such as a longer jail sentence and higher fines. The charges may also be more serious if the drug crime occurs alongside a violent offense or one involving a firearm.

The courts may also take into account whether or not a person is a repeat offender. Generally speaking, first-time offenders are granted more leniency than repeat drug crime offenders. Whether someone is a first-time offender or repeat offender, quickly seeking legal counsel from a drug crime lawyer is still a smart move, especially when you consider that the penalties for drug crime convictions in Alabama may include up to $15,000 in fines and up to 10 years in jail. A conviction may also lead to other penalties, such as community service, court-ordered treatment and education about drugs, or other programs aimed at rehabilitation of offenders.

If you or a loved one have recently been arrested or are being investigated for a crime, odds are you’re feeling stressed, anxious, and scared. The uncertainty of what to do next when you have been accused of a criminal offense can be paralyzing—at a time when it is imperative you take immediate action. The right first step you need to take is to contact us. We provide dedicated and effective defense for our clients through every step of the process.

Being charged with, arrested for, or accused of any crime is not only stressful but has wide-reaching consequences if your case is not resolved for the best outcome possible under the circumstances and evidence. Defense cases urgently require an experienced attorney you connect with personally, who understands your side, the law, and the system and will ensure your rights are fully preserved. Don’t wait or just hope for the best.