Drug Offense Charges
In Washington, any criminal charge related to drugs is properly called a Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act (VUCSA). Under this Act, a person can be charged for drug possession, use, manufacturing, delivering or intent to deliver.
With all of the publicity regarding legalization of marijuana or Seattle’s “safe zones” for heroin, some people think of Washington as a drug friendly state. That is absolutely not true. Prosecutions for drug crimes are common and aggressive. In fact, it is also common to see the Prosecutor allege “intent to deliver” due to the significant increase in punishment. While you may consider a certain amount of marijuana normal for personal use, the Prosecutor may not see it that way.
Additionally, it is important to understand that while you may be in possession of a “legal” drug or narcotic, it doesn’t mean you can use it or possess it at your discretion. For example, you may have been prescribed medication for your back pain but you can’t be in possession of your friend’s identical pain medication. And, while marijuana is “legal,” there are limits on where you can use it, how you can use it, whether you can grow it, and how much you can possess. The term “legal” can be confusing and dangerous in the world of drug charges.
For a free consultation call (360) 792-1000.
How Serious Are Your Charges?
If you are facing a drug charge and curious about the seriousness of your case, it is extremely important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. The jail time, fines, and other consequences will vary depending on certain factors:
- The type or classification of drug
- The quantity of drugs
- Personal use vs. intent to distribute
- Evidence of sales
- The presence of firearms or weapons
- Past criminal history
Additionally, if you manufactured, sold, or delivered drugs near a school, near or on a school bus, in a drug free zone, in a park, to a minor, or on public transit, the Prosecutor will likely seek sentence enhancements. This can greatly increase your range of jail time and fines.
On the positive side, some people may be eligible for alternatives to the normal VUCSA punishments. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to enroll in the Drug Court program or qualify for a drug treatment program. Again, the unique facts of your case will determine the options for resolving your drug charges short of going to trial. In most drug cases, it’s important to consider alternatives due to the lengthy prison terms for VUCSA convictions.
Witt Law Group serves individuals that have been charged with drug offenses in Kitsap, Pierce and Jefferson Counties. We also handle cases in nearly all the cities within those Counties. We have offices in Gig Harbor and Bremerton for your convenience. We offer free consultations and can be reached at (360) 792-1000 (Bremerton) or (253) 312-3838 (Gig Harbor) or you can text one of our attorneys at (360) 710-0027.
If you found this article interesting, CLICK HERE to view more similar articles on our Blog.
Criminal Defense Posts
The DUI Breathalyzer & Implied Consent In Washington
if you’re driving in Washington state, it’s important to know about something called “implied consent.” Essentially, when you got your driver’s license, you agreed to follow certain rules of the road. One of the rules is involves the breathalyzer test. And, if you are from another state, you avail yourself to the same rule by…
Driving After A DUI – The License Suspension
After a DUI /DWI arrest, there are two methods in which your driving privilege can be suspended. Administrative Suspension After Arrest – Department of Licensing After your arrest, the officer will submit evidence of your breathalyzer or your refusal to submit to the breathalyzer to the Department of Licensing (DOL). If it is a blood…
Get help now
Whether you choose to handle your case alone or you hire the Witt Law Group, get educated and prepared. There are so many factors that occur in the early part of your case that can dictate whether you will end up with a fair recovery. Remember that a consultation is free and worth your time. You will likely discover that the earlier you get an attorney involved in the process, the easier the transition back to normal life. Your attorney will take over all contact with the insurance adjuster and keep track of your treatment providers and bills. Your job is to heal. Our job is to present your injuries and damages to the insurance companies and argue for a fair settlement that accurately reflects the pain and damages you’ve suffered.