Drug Crime Defense Lawyers in Jefferson City

Drug crimes vary widely, and the penalties defendants can face depend heavily on the type of crime. It's important to have an attorney who understands the nuances of the law and can adjust defense strategies depending on the type of case. Our firm provides comprehensive defense services for various drug crime charges:

• Drug Possession: Possession of a controlled substance is one of the most common drug crimes in Missouri. In most cases, drug possession is charged as a Class D felony, but there are some exceptions

• Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing: Manufacturing controlled substances or growing more than 35 grams of marijuana is generally a Class C felony

• Drug Trafficking: Trafficking controlled substances is one of the most serious drug crimes you can be charged with. Drug trafficking is usually a Class B felony, but there are some exceptional circumstances that can result in a Class A or C categorization

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: Drug paraphernalia includes anything that can be used to plant, manufacture, process, pack, conceal, ingest, inject, or inhale a controlled substance. Possession of drug paraphernalia can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor or a Class E or D felony, depending on the circumstances

• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs: If it's the defendant's first offense, this charge is a Class B misdemeanor. However, there can be aggravating factors that can escalate the potential penalties

• Drug Crimes in School Zones: Being found in possession of a controlled substance within a restricted area, such as a school zone, can result in criminal charges and enhanced penalties

• Drug Offenses Involving Minors: Minors are considered special victims under Missouri law, which means that the degree of the charge and the penalties associated with it can be enhanced

If you've been charged with any of the above crimes, call Loraine Law Center as soon as possible to start preparing your defense.

Those who have been convicted of a crime often find that the repercussions of a criminal record extend far after they've served their sentences. Background checks for employment, rental properties, and other opportunities can make you feel like it's impossible to really move forward with your life and leave your past mistakes behind you. If you want to have a conviction or arrest removed from your criminal record, expungement may be an option.

Expungement is a legal process that essentially wipes the public record of your conviction or arrest. In some cases, it can still be available to specific parties, such as law enforcement. Not all drug crimes are eligible for expungement, and the process is not automatic. Criminal defense lawyers can help you determine if your offense is eligible for expungement and help you file a petition asking for it to be removed. An attorney can also ensure you meet any other requirements, such as having completed all aspects of your sentence and not having any additional charges pending.

At Loraine Law Center, we assist with expungement procedures that can clear drug crime charges or convictions from your criminal record, offering a fresh start to our clients.