Possession

In the state of Pennsylvania, there are certain drugs that are called “controlled substances.” The unauthorized use and possession of these controlled substances is illegal. You can be charged with a crime both for possession of drugs like cocaine and marijuana, which have no legitimate medical use. You can also be charged with a crime for possession of prescription medications if you do not have a valid medical prescription.

When you are charged with possession, you typically face misdemeanor charges for a first offense. You could potentially be sent to jail for misdemeanor possession and could end up with a criminal record that affects your ability to get a job or financial aid if you want to go back to school. Because of the serious consequences associated with even misdemeanor possession, it is advisable to get help from a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer when you are facing possession charges. The criminal defense law firm of Lawrence R. Dworkin can help.

Pennsylvania Laws on Possession

When you are in possession of illegal drugs in Pennsylvania you will be arrested and charged. You may also be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia such as pipes or other similar items used to do illegal drugs.

Possession of a small amount of marijuana is considered a relatively minor offense. Typically if you have 30 grams or less of marijuana on your person, you will fax a maximum penalty of up to 30 days of incarceration or a fine of up to $500.

How a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

When you are charged with possession, a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you to avoid conviction. In some cases, your attorney may be able to help you to get a deferred sentence or to gain entry into an ARD program that allows you to avoid a criminal conviction and criminal record after a probation period. In other cases, your attorney can raise defenses including entrapment or lack of actual possession in order to get the charges dropped or acquitted so you have no penalties or consequences at all.

The best course of action when charged with possession is to call a lawyer right away to learn what your options are and to make an informed choice about how to proceed with your case. The criminal defense law firm of Lawrence R. Dworkin is here to help. Contact us today using our online form or at 610-357-3506 to learn more about the legal advice and representation we can provide in drug possession cases.