In Washington, drug offenses are primarily categorized into two groups: possession and distribution. These charges can be as simple as misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia or as complicated as large amounts of heroin to deliver. Depending on the circumstance, drug charges can range from a single day in jail or as much as twenty years in prison.
Defenses to Drug Charges
Just because you have been charged with a crime, it doesn’t mean the case is solid. We often get drug charges dismissed by exposing illegal searches, faulty warrants, and violations of due process by showing the police didn’t follow the rules.
Sentencing Alternatives
Washington offers several alternatives to jail time for certain drug offenses, such as drug courts and deferred prosecutions.
Drug court programs vary by county. In general, it involves entering into substance abuse treatment, drug testing, and close supervision by the court. After successful completion of the program charges may be reduced or even dismissed.
Deferred prosecutions allow certain types of defendants to avoid a conviction by entering into a treatment program and meeting specific conditions over a set period of time. If the program is successfully completed, the charges may be dismissed.