Being convicted of drug possession will result in serious penalties that will affect the rest of your life. Plain and simple, you do not want to gamble your fate without a skilled lawyer to represent you. My name is Craig E. Gibbs, and I have been a criminal defense attorney for over 20 years. I have a passion for the law as well as for my clients, and I want to make sure that you are heard in court.
Understanding Drug Possession Charges
State law divides possession charges into schedules based on which drug you are alleged to be in possession of. If convicted, you could be sentenced to pay large fines and spend time in jail. Each drug is placed into a schedule, with the following penalties:
- Schedule I offenses: Conviction of a schedule I offense can result in a minimum fine of $5,000 and at least four years in jail.
- Schedule II offenses: Like schedule I offenses, there is a minimum fine of $5,000 and you could spend at least five years in jail.
- Schedule III, IV and V offenses: If you are convicted, the law states there is a $5,000 fine minimum and a jail sentence of at least five years.
It is necessary to understand that these are minimum sentences and the court will weigh a series of factors in determining the actual sentence. The type of drug, the amount and your record are all factors that will be considered. I know the law and want to help build a defense for your possession case.
Possession crimes also include prescription medications. Louisiana laws are strict about prescription drug crimes. In some cases, one prescription pill could lead to a felony drug charge. You could be required to pay fines and court fees and spend time in jail.
You do not need to waste any more time wondering what to do next. Your case is important to me and so is your right to be heard. Call my New Orleans office at 504-298-9177 or fill out the online form today and get set up for a complimentary consultation with me. I am located in New Orleans and serve clients in Jefferson Parish, St. Tammany Parish and St. Charles Parish.