Being charged with a drug possession offense can be overwhelming. You may be concerned about going to jail or paying fines. In this blog post, we’ll tell you what you need to know so you can move forward with confidence. If you want to have an in-depth insight into what your options are and what a drug possession offense implies for you and your future, our experienced legal team can help you understand the legal system and provide you with the legal assistance that you need. Contact us online or call (541) 777-8032.
Possession of controlled substances in Oregon
Drug possession is a common offense in Oregon. The charges you face depend on several factors, in particular the amount of drugs found in your possession when you were arrested. Before Measure 110, personal possession was a criminal offense, punishable by jail and thousands of dollars in fines. Measure 110 reduced the charge of first-time personal drug possession offenses from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E violation. This measure decriminalized the possession of small amounts of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, LSD, psilocybin, and methadone. Those charged with this non-criminal violation have the choice of paying a fine or conducting a health assessment.
When is drug possession considered a misdemeanor in Oregon?
If you’re caught with more than personal amounts of certain narcotics, including cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, or in circumstances where you’ve been previously convicted of a possession offense, then you can be charged with a crime. Class A misdemeanors are punishable by a maximum of 364 days in jail and a maximum $6,250 fine. You may also be ordered to engage in intensive treatment programs, perform community service work, and report regularly to a probation officer. If you are charged with a felony, the punishment can range between a maximum sentence of 5 years to 20 years in prison.
Why you need a criminal lawyer for drug possession in Oregon
If you are facing a drug possession charge in Oregon, it’s crucial that you hire an experienced criminal lawyer who can help protect your rights. The law surrounding drug possession is complex. A skilled legal professional will know exactly how to navigate the court system and use their knowledge of the law to build a strong defense for your case. Having the right drug possession attorney on your side will make all the difference when facing legal trouble. They can be invaluable in helping you understand what happened during an arrest or when preparing for trial, as well as making sure that necessary evidence is collected and presented at trial properly so that your case has every chance of success.
What to do if you’re charged with a drug possession offense in Oregon
If you’ve been charged with drug possession in Oregon, the team at Russell Law Group is here to protect your rights. Craig Russell and our entire team are here to guide you, create a defense strategy, and work with you towards a favorable outcome for your case. Contact us now, call (541) 777-8032.
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