Drug crimes involve possessing, selling, manufacturing, or distributing controlled substances. These offenses can include drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. A conviction can have profound consequences, including imprisonment, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record.
Taking prompt action can significantly benefit your case if you are arrested for a drug crime. Some things you can do include staying calm and exercising your right to remain silent, contacting an experienced drug crimes attorney, avoiding things that could hurt your case, and gathering information and evidence that may help your case.
Schedule a consultation with Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP by calling us at (800) 462-7160 or contacting us online. We serve the people of Los Angeles.
Steps to Take During and After a Drug Crime Arrest
Taking swift and strategic action in the aftermath of a drug crime arrest can significantly impact the trajectory of your case. Remember, every step you take counts towards building a solid defense and protecting your future.
Stay Calm, and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Being arrested for a drug crime can be stressful and overwhelming. Still, it's crucial to remain calm and composed. Keeping a level head can help you avoid mistakes that could harm your case.
Similarly, it's important not to speak to the police or answer any questions without an attorney present, even if officials pressure you. You have the right to remain silent and should exercise that right immediately. Asking for an attorney can protect your rights and ensure that you have the legal representation you need to build a strong defense. Your attorney can advise you on what to and not to say, and they can protect you from any coercive tactics the police may use.
Remember that anything you say or do can be used against you in court. Hence, stay silent and calm if arrested.
Contact an Attorney
When facing drug crime charges, time is of the essence. Contact an experienced drug crimes lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest. This will allow your attorney to start building a solid defense immediately and to gather time-sensitive evidence.
An experienced drug crimes attorney has the knowledge and skills to craft a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Your attorney can advise you of your rights, explain the charges against you, and help you understand the potential consequences of a conviction. They can also represent you in court and negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a favorable outcome.
Avoid Doing Things That Could Hurt Your Case
After being arrested for a drug crime, avoiding doing anything that could hurt your case is essential. This includes avoiding any attempt to flee or resist arrest, which could result in additional charges and worsen your situation.
It's also essential not to talk to anyone about your case, including friends and family members. While you may feel the need to confide in someone you trust, discussing the matter with anyone other than your attorney could compromise your defense.
Additionally, avoiding posting about your case on social media is crucial. Anything you post online could be used against you in court, and prosecutors are increasingly turning to social media as a source of evidence. Even seemingly innocuous posts or photos could be misinterpreted and used against you, so it's best to refrain from posting anything related to your case.
Gather Information and Evidence
Information and evidence can be critical to building a strong defense when facing drug crime charges. Write down everything you can remember about your arrest, including the time, place, and circumstances. This information can help prepare your defense and identify potential constitutional violations or legal issues.
Keep any documentation related to your case, such as arrest reports, court dates, and bail receipts. This information can help you stay organized and ensure that you don't miss any important deadlines or court appearances.
Finally, gather evidence that may help your case, such as witness statements or physical evidence. Your attorney can help identify useful evidence and can work to collect it on your behalf. Gathering information and evidence can help your lawyer build a strong defense and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Get Legal Representation
If you are arrested for a drug crime, taking proactive steps to protect your rights and build a strong defense is essential.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a drug crime, contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, an experienced criminal defense law firm in Los Angeles, for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to fighting for our clients' rights and helping them navigate the complex justice system.
Call (800) 462-7160 or submit an online contact form today.