Drug Crime Defense Lawyer Frequently Asked Questions

Musca Law:  Attorney Representation against Drug Charges in Tampa & Sarasota

What kinds of defenses are there to drug crimes?

The most common defense tactic used by lawyers during drug cases is to challenge and question how the “incriminating” evidence was obtained.  Illegal search and seizure frequently occurs in drug crimes because police and investigators will sometimes violate a defendant’s constitutional rights in order to obtain evidence that may prove them to be guilty of the crime.  Even if it does prove guilt, if the evidence was obtained in a way that violated an individual’s rights, the evidence could be thrown out, thereby ruining the prosecution’s case.   

What are drug courts?

Drug courts combine the efforts of criminal justice professionals and drug treatment professionals in order to break the cycle of substance abuse and drug-related crimes.  Drug courts are effective in helping and rehabilitating non-violent drug offenders through rigorous drug treatment programs rather than sending them to jail.  Not all drug offenders are eligible for drug court, only those who committed crimes that were non-violent, and who do not have an extensive criminal history. 

Are there any alternatives to spending time in jail for a drug crime?

If this is your first drug offense, and if your drug crime was not violent, you may be eligible for alternative sentencing, which is different from criminal court.  Alternative sentencing will allow for rehabilitation rather than punishment, and will entail such things as drug counseling, drug testing, and regular meetings with a probation officer. 

There is so much evidence against me, I plan on pleading guilty.  Why do I still need a lawyer?

Even if you have incriminating evidence against you, is does not automatically mean that you will receive a conviction.  With the help of a good lawyer, it may be able to be proved that the evidence against you was obtained illegally, in which case, it will be thrown out.  You should never give up hope, and you should always speak with a drug crime defense attorney in order to determine what kind of options you have in the face of drug charges.

Contact a drug crime defense lawyer at Musca Law to discuss your Tampa or Sarasota drug charges!