Salt Lake City Drug Possession Defense Lawyer

Attorneys in Salt Lake City Helping Clients Charged With Possession of a Controlled Substance

When you are facing charges for the possession of illegal drugs, the consequences of a conviction could be severe. The damage to your reputation—both personal and professional—could also be serious. At Collins Rupp, P.C., we realize that the penalties for low-level possession of most drugs have been decreased in Utah in recent years, but those who possess larger amounts are still subject to hefty fines and long-term incarceration. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers understand the seriousness of drug possession charges, and we are equipped to provide the guidance you need.

Trusted Defense Counsel for Drug Charges in Davis County

In the last few years, changes to Utah law have shifted its focus from harsh punishments to education and recovery for low-level, non-violent drug offenses. In most cases, possession of a controlled substance for personal use is now prosecuted as a Class A misdemeanor for a first or second offense. If you are convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, you could face up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. A third or subsequent charge is handled as at least a third-degree felony, with possible penalties of up to five years in jail and fines of up to $5,000.

The skilled attorneys at Collins Rupp, P.C. are proud to serve clients in and around Salt Lake City. With our combined legal experience, we know what you are up against when you are facing drug possession charges, and we will help you protect your future. We can help with cases involving the possession of:

• Marijuana
• Heroin
• Cocaine and crack cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Ecstasy and MDMA
• Prescription drugs without a valid prescription
• Any other illegal drug

Drug Possession Charges and the Fourth Amendment

In any drug possession case, the amount and the type of drug will determine the severity of the charges. Those found with larger amounts may even be charged with possession with intent to distribute, which carries more serious potential penalties. The evidence in such cases, however, is almost always the drugs themselves, and they are usually found by means of a police search. In conducting such a search, the police must be very careful to avoid compromising your Fourth Amendment rights.

Under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, you have the right to be free from unlawful searches and seizures of your personal property. A search of your home, for example, generally requires a search warrant based on probable cause. A police officer may search your vehicle without a warrant in some situations, but he or she still must have probable cause.

Any evidence—including illegal drugs—found during an illegal search could be thrown out by the court, which could result in a dismissal of the charges against you. Our attorneys will review the circumstances of your arrest and the behavior of law enforcement officers to determine if your rights were violated in any way.

Securing Your Future

Depending on the charges and the evidence against you, your best option may be to negotiate with prosecutors to avoid a conviction. There are various programs available that could result in reduced charges or the elimination of all charges upon successful completion of the programs. Our attorneys will work with prosecutors and police to help you take responsibility for your actions and to start putting your life back on track. When appropriate, however, we are fully prepared to defend your innocence in court as well.

Call Us Today

If you or a member of your family is facing drug possession charges, contact our office right away. Call 385-777-2753 for a free, no-obligation consultation at Collins Rupp, P.C. today. We will work hard to get you the best possible outcome for your unique situation.