Before deciding whether to hire a lawyer to represent you in a drug case, it’s essential to know what exactly a drug charge lawyer does. Drug crimes can range from simple possession to trafficking, manufacture, and distribution. Regardless of the charge, hiring a lawyer with a history of successfully negotiating criminal defense cases is essential.
Evidence gathered by a drug defense lawyer:
A drug defense attorney has several important legal tools at his disposal. For instance, he can challenge the police’s ability to collect evidence from drug seizures. These seizures usually involve illegal drugs, large amounts of cash, and weapons. If a police officer can get this evidence, he can use it to charge you with a crime. In addition, he can use evidence from drug-sniffing dogs. However, every person has the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government, and some laws govern the admissibility of such evidence.
Interviewing witnesses:
Interviewing witnesses as part of the drug defense lawyer’s job entails dealing with the various challenges of this process. These may include conflicting interests, employment issues, and regulatory issues. These interviews are generally confidential and may be premised on legal privilege or a duty of confidence. On the other hand, the company may be required to provide details regarding the witness’ accounts, which can present additional challenges.
Rebutting evidence:
Rebutting evidence as part of a drug defense lawyer’s work may include calling witnesses to disprove the prosecution’s case and introducing new information. The government may call senior command representatives at sentencing to offer their own opinions on the evidence, but trial counsel should carefully evaluate the number of witnesses required.
Negotiating with prosecutors:
You may be required to negotiate with prosecutors in your case as a defense attorney. However, prosecutors often rely on their judgment and advice from superior prosecutors when making offers. As a defense attorney, your role is to take this offer and work with it to get the best possible outcome for your client. In most cases, negotiations have three possible outcomes: acceptance, rejection, and re-stipulation.
Reducing or dismissing charges:
Using the services of a drug defense attorney can help you reduce or dismiss charges. This is the best possible outcome as it means you will avoid jail time and have no criminal record. However, this may not be possible in every case. Sometimes, prosecutors can’t bring a compelling case, and a lawyer must negotiate the charge.
