Have you been arrested for drug charges in Indiana? If so, you need legal counsel as quickly as possible. It does not take much in the State of Indiana to be convicted of a felony drug charge. In fact, except for some marijuana cases, almost all drug crime convictions in Indiana are felony convictions.
There are some instances where a felony drug crime might be lowered to a misdemeanor. This cannot be done, however, without the assistance of a capable and aggressive criminal defense attorney. Having an experienced Crown Point criminal defense attorney by your side who is aware of and will fight for your rights makes a positive outcome much more likely.
If you are someone you care about has been charged with a drug crime in Crown Point, Indiana, contact The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC for dedicated and aggressive legal representation.
Choosing a Crown Point Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer
No one wants to be locked up or required to pay expensive fines as a result of drug charges. To ensure that you are being represented by the right lawyer, you need to hire the best Crown Point drug crimes lawyer available.
To help you in your quest for the right drug crimes defense lawyer in Crown Point for your case, remember the following traits of a top-notch drug crimes lawyer:
Proper Knowledge and Experience
Your drug crimes lawyer must have a concrete knowledge of how the legal system functions when it comes to drug charges. Having an attorney who has handled drug crime cases helps, considering he already has prior experience with this type of case. Crown Point drug crimes defense attorney Joseph M. Roberts knows how necessary legal know-how and experience are to win your case.
Communication
You need a drug crimes defense lawyer in Crown Point who can speak with you on a level you can understand. Find an attorney who can discuss with you every single thing you should know to have the best shot possible at succeeding in your case. That is precisely the kind of lawyer you will find with Attorney Joseph M. Roberts.
Excellent Rapport
Having an attorney with good interpersonal skills is essential. Rapport is important in terms of helping you through the ups and downs of your drug charge and giving the strong legal and emotional support you will most certainly need. A seasoned drug crimes lawyer realizes how vital good chemistry is when it comes to working with their clients. You can count on the same from Attorney Joseph M. Roberts.
Availability
When searching for a reliable Crown Point drug crimes defense attorney, look for an attorney who can quickly deal with your legal needs. An attorney who puts your legal concerns first is just the type of attorney you will find at The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC.
What’s the Difference Between State and Federal Drug Charges in Indiana?
Drug crimes in Indiana can be prosecuted at either the state or federal level, depending on the circumstances of the offense. State charges typically apply to possession and small-scale drug distribution, while federal charges often involve large quantities, interstate trafficking, or organized crime connections. The penalties for federal drug offenses are far more severe, often carrying mandatory minimum sentences.
Factors That Determine Whether a Drug Crime Is Charged at the State or Federal Level
Several factors influence whether a drug case remains at the state level or is prosecuted in federal court. If law enforcement discovers a large quantity of drugs or evidence of a distribution network, the case may be escalated to federal authorities. Interstate drug activity, the involvement of federal agencies, or the use of communication devices to coordinate sales across state lines can also trigger federal charges.
Federal sentencing guidelines impose harsher consequences compared to Indiana state laws. State drug charges may allow for probation, diversion programs, or reduced sentences, while federal convictions often come with mandatory minimum prison terms. Federal cases also involve agencies such as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), making them more complex and difficult to fight.
How Indiana’s Drug Laws Compare to Federal Drug Laws
Indiana classifies drug offenses based on the type of drug, the amount found, and whether there was intent to distribute. Simple possession of controlled substances may result in misdemeanor or low-level felony charges while manufacturing or large-scale distribution leads to serious felony convictions. Indiana’s drug laws also include enhanced penalties for possession near schools, parks, or public housing.
Federal drug trafficking laws impose far stricter penalties, particularly for large quantities of controlled substances. The Controlled Substances Act, under 21 U.S.C. § 841, outlines mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking offenses, with penalties starting at five years for certain drug quantities and increasing to life in prison for major operations. Unlike state cases, federal drug crimes rarely allow for probation or alternative sentencing.
What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a Drug Crime Conviction in Indiana?
A drug conviction in Indiana carries serious penalties that can impact your future. The severity of these consequences depends on the nature of the offense, your prior criminal history, and whether the charge involved intent to distribute. Penalties for drug crimes in Indiana could include:
- Misdemeanor possession – Up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines for first-time offenses involving small amounts.
- Felony drug possession – Sentences range from six months to 30 years, depending on the drug type and quantity.
- Drug trafficking and distribution – Can result in 10 to 50 years in prison if large quantities or weapons are involved.
- Drug-related DUI offenses – A first offense carries up to one year in jail, with increasing penalties for repeat violations.
What Are the Steps Involved in a Criminal Drug Case in Indiana?
Pretrial Procedures in Drug Crime Cases
After an arrest, your case moves into the pretrial phase. During this stage, the court will hold an initial hearing to determine bail and whether you will be released pending trial. Prosecutors may offer plea agreements, but accepting a deal without reviewing the evidence can have long-term consequences.
Pretrial discovery allows both sides to gather and exchange evidence. Motions may be filed to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, such as illegal searches or coerced confessions. The defense strategy may involve challenging drug test results, witness credibility, or law enforcement procedures.
Trial and Sentencing in an Indiana Drug Case
If your case proceeds to trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Prosecutors will present evidence such as surveillance footage, witness testimony, and lab reports confirming the substance in question. If the case is strong, they may push for a plea deal in exchange for reduced charges.
Contact The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC for a Skilled Drug Crimes Lawyer in Crown Point, Indiana
Facing drug charges in Indiana is a very serious matter, and it should be treated as one. From the moment you are arrested, you need an aggressive lawyer by your side, protecting your constitutional rights and passionately defending you against these charges.
Contact The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC for a Crown Point drug crimes lawyer who will fight vigorously for the best possible outcome for your case. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss the charges and determine the best course of action.