Kitsap County Drug Crime Lawyer

In the state of Washington, there is little tolerance when it comes to drug offenses. You can expect to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law—unless you fight back. At Ramirez & Cooper, Inc., our attorneys have 30+ years of combined legal experience, ready to advocate tirelessly for your every right.

We offer affordable payment plans, and starting with a free case evaluation, we are ready to discuss the proven defense strategies that could get your charges reduced or dismissed. Don’t hesitate to see what our criminal defense lawyers can do for you when you face drug charges in the state of Washington.

Charged with drug possession, trafficking, or manufacturing? Contact our Kitsap County drug crime attorney online or call (206) 222-7701 for a FREE review of your defense options!

We Can Handle Your Drug Defense in Washington

Our attorneys are backed by decades of proven experience. We know how to combat the serious penalties you could face for a drug conviction in Washington.

What are these drug crime penalties? Penalties for drug possession start at either five years in prison or paying a $10,000 fine, or both. However, the state penalties for illegal distribution of any controlled substance are more severe than they are for simple possession.

Drug distribution is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a $500,000 fine. The defendant may also be punished with restitution, community service, probation, parole, or mandatory drug/alcohol counseling. Greater penalties will be imposed if the defendant was found selling controlled substances to minors. A second and third conviction would obviously come with enhanced penalties as well.

Common Legal Defenses for Drug Charges

Getting convicted of a drug crime can result in harsh criminal penalties, which is why one of the most important steps you must take is to hire a skilled criminal defense lawyer who has experience handling a wide range of drug charges, from possession to trafficking. Your drug crime attorney can evaluate your case and determine all of your available legal defenses to help you obtain the most favorable outcome.

The following are some of the most common legal defenses for drug crimes:

• Unlawful Search or Seizure - This defense focuses on the legality of how evidence was obtained. If law enforcement failed to follow proper procedure when searching or seizing evidence, they may not be able to use that evidence against the defendant in court. 
• Drugs Belong to Someone Else - If the defendant can prove that the drugs in question belonged to someone else and not them, this could be a successful defense. Generally, it must be shown that the defendant had no knowledge of the drugs and/or no control over them. 
• Entrapment -  This defense claims that law enforcement officers induced someone to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed without coercion. 
• Miranda Rights Violation - A Miranda violation occurs when law enforcement officers fail to inform a suspect of their right to remain silent and have an attorney present before questioning them. If a suspect’s answers are used in court, it may be considered a violation of their Miranda rights and any evidence obtained during the questioning can be excluded from trial. 
• Crime Lab Analysis - If the crime lab results are inconclusive or incorrect, this can be used to dispute the charges. A defense attorney may need to have their own expert review the laboratory evidence and offer testimony in court. 
• Missing Drugs - If the drugs in question are missing or cannot be found, this could be a successful defense. The burden of proof is on the prosecution to show that the defendant was in possession or control of the drugs. 
• No Intent to Distribute - This defense claims that the accused intended only to use and not distribute the drugs. They may need medical evidence or expert testimony to support their claim. 

Facing Marijuana Charges in Washington State?

Marijuana is one of the most commonly used drugs in the state of Washington. In November of 1998, Initiative 692

 was passed in the state of Washington which allows certain individuals to legally grow or possess cannabis. Even though changes are underway, the possession of more than an ounce of marijuana for personal use is still a crime, and it is illegal to distribute or cultivate without a proper license.

At Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. we will protect your rights, permanent record, future employment, and your career choices, which are all put at risk with a drug crime conviction. Whether you have been charged with drug dealing, or possession with intent to distribute to large drug cartels, we have the extensive experience to defend you.

Over Three Decades of Legal Experience—On Your Side

If you are convicted of a drug crime, there is no escaping the mark on your criminal record. Our legal team wants to help you clear your name before it is too late. With thousands of criminal cases behind us, we know how to assert your legal rights.

Whether you need a medical marijuana card, need counsel about Initiative 692, or need to challenge a possession or trafficking charge, you can rely on us. Our Kitsap County drug crime lawyers will do everything possible to reach the best possible outcome for your case.

We are ready to start your drug crime defense now! Schedule your FREE & confidential consult—Click here to start.