What to do if You’ve Been Arrested for Drug Possession
When you’ve found yourself arrested for drug possession, it’s vital you know what to do and understand your rights. Knowing how to defend yourself is important, because being found in possession of a controlled substance is viewed very seriously in the eyes of the law. Even if you’re found not guilty of the charge, being arrested can have devastating consequences.
Being arrested for drug possession can find you serving jail time, having to pay expensive fines, probation; you could even lose your driver’s license. On top of this, you’ll have a criminal record, which can impact future employment opportunities and your career. This is why it is important to hire an experienced drug defense attorney.
If you’ve been arrested for drug possession, you could be charged with the following offenses:
- Possession of a controlled substance.
- Possession with intent to distribute.
- Sale, trafficking, cultivating.
- Obtaining a prescription by fraud.
When you find yourself arrested for drug possession, the most important thing you can do is request legal assistance. A drug crime attorney in Los Angeles will be able to offer you advice and defend your legal rights. However, before they arrive at the police station, there are several things you need to remember.
Table of Contents
Keep Calm
It’s all too easy to lose your cool, especially if you consider the charges to be unfounded. You shouldn’t let your emotions get the better of you, because this could result in additional charges being made. Don’t get physical with the police officers as they will most certainly retaliate and use physical force to subdue you.
The 5th Amendment states that you have the right to remain silent. Assert that right. Apart from providing basic personal details such are your name, age and identifying information, you do not have to say anything else. Ask for your attorney to be present before sharing any more details. Be certain you make this request in a respectful way.
Don’t Sign Anything
The right to remain silent also applies to anything you put in writing. Don’t sign anything until your lawyer says otherwise.
Request Bail
Do you want to wait in a jail cell while your case is being investigated and then tried? During your arraignment, you can ask the court to set bail. It is up to the judge to grant or deny it. If they set bail, you can pay it and go home. However, if the deny bail, there’s little you can do.
Don’t immediately reject a drug test if arrested for a DUI
Refusing a drug test can bring a whole world of trouble. In some states, for example New York, your license will be revoked for twelve months. You should know that it’s not a crime to have some evidence of drugs in your system. The crime occurs when your ability to drive safely is impaired because of those drugs.
For your own peace of mind and to protect yourself should you be arrested, it’s important you educate yourself about the law. Be sure to hire a lawyer who specializes in drug possession, and listen to their guidance. Know your legal rights and don’t be afraid to exercise them.
