Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Hennepin County Drug Charges (Heroin)


Heroin ... all over the news these days ... is being reported as one of the more addictive drugs & its abuse is once again climbing. Law enforcement, law makers and the courts are not blind to this fact, and they are taking action.

If you or someone you love is accused of heroin possession in the State of Minnesota, there’s a good chance that you are scared - and rightfully so. Fortunately, an experienced 
Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney may be able to help. 

Consider This

Minnesota is known for being tough on crime ... and Controlled Substance Crimes in particular.  Possession of heroin is a serious felony-level charge, no matter how much someone is accused of possessing. This means that a conviction could result in prison time, lengthy probation ... and all of the "crap" that goes along with being charged with a felony. 

Having had started out as a prosecutor, I have an insight into how these matters can and should be handled ... working to earn a   a positive resolution of your case.

Penalties

Possession of heroin is a felony charge, no matter the amount one is found to possess.  However, the actual amount does factor into  the charge you face and the potential consequences.  In the State of Minnesota, the law sets-forth these penalties:  

  • Fifth Degree Possession (Less than 3 grams) - up to 5 years in Prison and $10,000 in fines;
  • Third Degree Possession (From 3 - 5.9 grams)  - up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 in fines;
  • Second Degree Possession (From 6- 24.9 grams) - up to 25 years and $500,000 in fines; and 
  • First Degree Possession (25 grams or more) - up to 30 years and $1 million in fines.
Evidentary Issues 

There are many laws protecting your rights and dictating how the evidence gathered against you must be handled ... and if law enforcement fails to do their job correctly ... there are sometimes opportunities for your Minnesota Controlled Substance Crime Attorney to argue that it should be suppressed.

Example: If it can be shown that your rights were violated in the search or that the evidence was not properly handled, there may be cause to have your case thrown out completely.

Plea Deals

In many cases, a plea bargain is the best option for everyone involved. This is true ... if you admit some level of wrongdoing but want to avoid the worst possible penalties. Often, especially if this is your first offense, you can avoid prison time with a plea agreement --- you can even (maybe) keep this off of your record all together.  The terms of the agreement will be based on a variety of factors including the facts of your case, the prosecutor working on it, and your prior record.
   

The best criminal defense strategy for your case depends on a million different things ... all too often.  Working with the Rolloff Law Office, to develop this strategy, begins with a FREE CONSULTATION.  Call today to discuss your case.

1 comment:

  1. My friend has found himself in need of a criminal defense attorney and I'm trying to help him find one. I thought I should know more about what makes a good attorney, so I'm looking online. It's such an important decision and I really want to help my friend make the best choice he can.

    Susan Hirst | http://www.winfreylaw.com/Practice-Areas/Federal-Criminal-Defense.shtml

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