Pennsylvania Drug Charges FAQ

Drug charges are one of the most common ways that people get caught up in the criminal justice system. If you are facing criminal charges related to illegal drugs like marijuana, bath salts, MDMA, or heroin, it’s very likely that you’re worried about your future and are not sure where to turn. Fortunately, there is help available. In many cases, the representation of a Chester County criminal defense attorney can help you mitigate the consequences that you are facing. Here are some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about drug charges in Pennsylvania. To schedule a free consultation with a lawyer, call our office today.

Am I Going to Jail?

Not surprisingly, one of the first questions that many people facing drug charges ask is whether they are going to go to jail. While it is certainly possible to go to jail for a drug offense, it is instructive to keep in mind that very few first-time offenders facing simple possession charges do any jail time.

Are There Defenses Available?

Typically, defenses related to drug charges focus on the way the police found the drugs at issue. It is important to understand that the police are not allowed to go around doing whatever they want, and there are limits on how they can do their investigative work. If they violate the rules that apply to how they can search a person, his or her home, or his or her vehicle, it can result in the court suppressing any evidence that was found, meaning that the prosecution cannot use it. So, if in your case the police found drugs after conducting an illegal search, it may be possible to have the case entirely dropped or dismissed.

Should I Take a Plea Bargain?

Many people facing drug charges wonder whether they should take a plea bargain, which involves pleading guilty for a reduced sentence or conviction of a lesser offense. Whether to accept a plea bargain is highly dependent on the circumstance of each case. Your attorney will be able to advise you about the pros and cons of taking a plea bargain so that you can make an informed decision.

Are Any Diversionary Programs Available?

Potential clients often ask us whether there are “diversionary programs available for drug offenders. These programs typically involve a period of supervised probation with conditions related to the underlying offense (for example, random drug testing), which, if successfully completed, will result in the court dismissing the case or expungement of the conviction. There are diversionary programs available in Pennsylvania, but it is entirely up to the discretion of the court as to whether a defendant can participate, so anyone seeking to enter one should retain an attorney immediately.

Call Skinner Law Today

If the police have arrested you for an offense related to illegal drugs, you should speak to a lawyer as soon as you can. Attorney Michael J. Skinner is a former prosecutor who has dedicated his legal career to helping people who have been accused of crimes and knows how to resolve criminal cases as favorably as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation with a criminal defense lawyer in Chester County, call our office today at (610) 436-1410 or send us an email through our online contact form.