Lafayette Drug Possession Lawyer

Lafayette Drug Possession Attorney

Possession is one of the most common drug crimes in Louisiana. Owning certain illegal drugs or controlled substances is a serious crime that can have life-altering penalties if you do not secure necessary legal representation. The prosecution attached to your case won’t be lenient, whether you’ve been accused of possession in Billeaud or Pilette. You need a Lafayette drug possession lawyer who works to protect your rights just as seriously.

Let Longman Jakuback Defend Your Rights in a Drug Crimes Case

At Longman Jakuback, we have served the residents of Louisiana since 2017. We have handled hundreds of criminal cases over the years and can now turn our time and attention to your case.

Depending on the severity of drug possession you’re facing, your case will be heard either at the Lafayette City Court, on East Convent Street, or the 15th Judicial District court on South Buchanan Street. We have experience working in both courthouses and can use this experience to the advantage of your defense.

Defining Drug Possession in Lafayette

In the United States, an individual is arrested for drug crimes every 35 seconds. One of the most common drug crimes is that of possession. In Lafayette, drug possession is the unlawful possession of any kind of controlled substance. These substances are broken down into five different categories, or schedules, based on their addictive nature and the danger they pose to the general public.

At Longman Jakuback, we have handled drug possession cases involving the following kinds of controlled or illegal substances:

• Heroin
• LSD
• MDMA, or ecstasy
• Cocaine or crack cocaine
• Marijuana
• Methamphetamine
• Prescription sedatives
• Prescription stimulants
• Prescription medications that include cocaine
• Prescription opioids
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Phencyclidine, or PCP
• D-lysergic acid amide, LSA

If you or a loved one has been charged with possessing any of these illegal or controlled substances, it is crucial that you reach out to the team at Longman Jakuback as soon as possible. The consequences of a conviction can have life-long effects. You need a legal advocate who can do whatever it takes to protect you.

What to Do Following a Drug Possession Arrest and Charge?

Following a drug possession arrest in Lafayette, you are likely going to feel uncertain and frightened. You may not know where to turn next or what actions need to be taken in order to protect yourself from law enforcement and the techniques they try to use to entrap you or get you to confess.

At Longman Jakuback, we advise all of our drug crime clients to take the following actions following their arrest:

• Remain silent: It is your constitutional right to stay silent when law enforcement asks you questions without the presence of an attorney. During your arrest, anything you might say can and likely will be used against you as evidence later on. Upon your arrest, simply and calmly state that you have the right to remain silent. This can help protect you from any accidental self-incrimination.
• Call your attorney: If you are going to answer any questions from the police, you need to have your attorney present. We are here to protect you and speak on your behalf in any interview or interrogation.
• Avoid consenting to searches: The police will likely request permission to search your home, vehicle, and personal belongings. However, if a legal warrant is not in place, then you have the right to refuse the search.
• Gather documentation: It can be vital to your case to record all the details of your arrest, including the names of the officers and witnesses involved and the location of the arrest.
• Follow all court orders: Finally, it is important that you adhere to all court orders and attend all required court appearances. Missing a court date or violating any pretrial condition could result in further penalties.

FAQs About Lafayette, LA Drug Possession Laws

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Louisiana?

An individual can face a wide range of penalties for a successful drug possession conviction in Louisiana. The severity of penalties ultimately depends on the type of drug involved in your crime and the amount of the drug. Common penalties can include probation, fines, mandatory drug classes or treatment programs, and possible imprisonment. Additionally, convicts face a 30% unemployment rate upon reintegrating into society.

Can I Be Charged with a Felony for Drug Possession in Lafayette?

You can be charged with a felony for drug possession in certain cases in Lafayette. This depends on the type and quantity of drug alleged in your possession. In cases where a certain drug, such as marijuana, has been found in your possession in a relatively small amount, you will likely only face misdemeanor charges. However, even misdemeanor charges can carry significant penalties.

How Can I Defend Against Drug Charges in Louisiana?

To defend against drug charges in Louisiana, there are several strategies that may be used. At Longman Jakuback, we can review your case to determine which strategy correctly fits the nuances of your situation. The most common defense strategies include suffering an unlawful search and seizure, lacking knowledge of the alleged possession, improper handling of evidence by law enforcement, and mistaken identity.

How Can a Lafayette Drug Possession Lawyer Help Me?

A Lafayette drug possession lawyer can help you in many different ways. First, your lawyer is here to work for you and no one else. This means they are prepared to listen to your side of the story, review evidence, and uncover further evidence that can be used in your defense.

98% of criminal cases end in plea bargains rather than a trial. In cases where a deal is possible, they are there to advocate for your rights and interests.

Hire a Drug Possession Lawyer Today

Drug possession charges do not mean an automatic conviction, but they also do not go away on their own. You need to hire a drug possession lawyer who can protect your rights and make all the difference when it comes to the outcome of your case.

At Longman Jakuback, we are passionate about protecting the accused and the marginalized, no matter what charge they’re facing. Contact our Baton Rouge offices today to schedule your initial consultation.