Drug Defense Attorneys in Burlington, North Carolina

If you are charged with a drug crime in Burlington or Graham, North Carolina, you need an experienced attorney on your side. At Smith Giles PLLC, our attorneys defend our clients’ rights when they are facing drug charges.

Our attorneys have an established reputation for achieving results and can help you navigate the North Carolina criminal justice system. We make sure you understand your rights and will provide a solid defense for your case.

Law enforcement and prosecutors must provide reliable evidence to support their case against you. They must adhere to numerous statutes regarding the collection of evidence and the administration of Miranda warnings. Often, they do not, and it is possible to seek a dismissal of charges based on these failures.

For drug defense attorneys in the Graham, Burlington, Greensboro, and Charlotte areas, contact us online or call our team at 336-222-7735 today.

Drug Charges in North Carolina

Law enforcement agencies in North Carolina are directing intensive focus on drug offenders. These cases move quickly through the courts, and it is imperative to prepare your defense without delay. Our attorneys will explain the steps ahead and pursue a competent drug crime defense strategy.

Common drug charges in North Carolina include:

  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. This can consist of pipes, bongs, rolling papers, or other devices law enforcement claims was used for the sale, consumption, or distribution of narcotics.
  • Possession of Narcotics. This can include synthetic drugs, including K2 or Spice, molly, or MDMA. It also includes bath salts, marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, LSD, heroin, methamphetamine, etc.
  • Possession with Intent to Distribute. If you have 10 pounds or more of marijuana, the state can pursue an intent to distribute charge. This threshold is significantly lower for other types of narcotics.
  • Prescription Drug Crimes. These include prescription fraud, forgery of prescription, and “doctor shopping.”
  • Drug Trafficking or Conspiracy to Traffic.
  • Cultivation and Manufacture of Narcotics. 
  • Distribution of Narcotics to Minors. 

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Charges

North Carolina drug crimes are classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. There are numerous factors that go into the prosecutor’s decision when determining which to pursue. These include the quantity of the narcotic, the offender’s previous record, whether minors are involved, etc.

When misdemeanor charges are involved, it is often possible to pursue first offender diversionary programs. If the individual is charged with a felony, it is also possible in some cases to pursue a reduction to misdemeanor charges. Our attorneys help our clients pursue the best outcome possible.

Burlington, North Carolina Drug Charges Attorneys

Prosecutors have a high bar to reach when establishing a defendant’s guilt. When charging defendants with drug crimes, prosecutors must establish that the individual knew they were in constructive possession of an illicit substance. This means they had the ability to control, use, or dispose of the drug – such as if the drugs were in the individual’s home, car, clothing, or other property they own.

Contrary to urban myth, individuals who are charged with the sale or distribution of narcotics do not have to receive money in return for a controlled substance. If they receive property or other forms of payment, this is sufficient under North Carolina law.

Individuals may also face charges of manufacturing-controlled substances. Prosecutors can pursue this charge if they have evidence that they claim shows the defendant compounding, converting, or processing narcotic substances.

Call Smith Giles PLLC at 336-222-7735 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our attorneys will help you understand your rights and legal options. 

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