Stow Drug Crime Lawyer

Stow Drug Crime Lawyer Attorney

The consequences of drug crime charges can follow you for your entire life. If you’ve been involved in a drug crime, the stakes are high. There may be a chance to minimize charges in your case with the help of an experienced Stow drug crime lawyer. When you hire a drug crime lawyer who is qualified to represent you, you can potentially optimize the outcome of your case.

Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer Who Gets Results

A Stow drug crime attorney from DiCaudo, Pitchford, & Yoder can make a difference in your case. We are not the typical criminal defense firm, and this shows in our progress and unique approach. Our attorneys have an impressive record of dismissed charges and not guilty verdicts, as well as an in-depth understanding of Ohio criminal and drug crime laws. The clients we represent benefit from our innovative legal strategies and superior client care.

The Extent of Ohio Drug Crime Laws

When it comes to drug crimes, the laws in Ohio are some of the harshest in the state’s code. Penalties can be severe, depending on the crime committed. While the defendant’s criminal history can influence sentencing, even a first-time charge in Ohio can result in serious penalties, although many first-time drug offenders do get probation. The following is a sampling of Ohio drug charges with their associated degree of severity and possible penalties, including:

• Possession of drug paraphernalia is a fourth-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and up to $250 in fines.
• Possession of marijuana between 200 grams and 1,000 grams is a fifth-degree felony punishable by six to 12 months in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
• Possession of less than 5 grams of cocaine is a fifth-degree felony, punishable by six to 12 months in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
• Possession of a fentanyl-related compound between 20 grams and 50 grams is a second-degree felony, punishable by two to eight years in prison and fines of up to $2,500.
• Trafficking methamphetamine between 3 grams and 15 grams is a third-degree felony punishable by between nine and 36 months in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
• Manufacturing of drugs is a first-degree felony punishable by three to 11 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines.

The Importance of Having a Good Stow Drug Crime Lawyer

It is evident that Ohio is harsh on drug crime offenders. As a result, it is recommended that anyone involved in a drug crime case have a Stow drug crime attorney represent them. Not only can a good attorney ensure that the rights of their client are protected, but they can also provide the following services in your drug crime case:

• Review your case regarding the legality of the search that resulted in your arrest.
• Challenge the validity of the prosecution’s evidence if obtained without a warrant.
• Analyze the accuracy of the drug testing lab and procedures followed to obtain positive drug identification.
• Question constitutional violations of your rights.
• Negotiate with prosecutors for a dismissal or reduced charges and minimized penalties.
• Speak at hearings, pre-trial meetings, and in trial proceedings on your behalf.
• Protect your freedom and mitigate any long-term impact of the charges against you and a conviction on your future.

Federal Drug Crimes in Ohio

There are very few federal drug possession cases in Ohio. In 2023, in fact, there were only four federal drug possession cases in Ohio. Of those four cases, all four pleaded guilty, but only two received prison sentences, while the other two received alternative sentencing. 

Federal drug trafficking cases, however, are a different story. In that same year, there were 597 federal drug trafficking cases in Ohio. Only 5.6% of those cases received probation-type alternative sentencing. Another 89.8% received prison sentences with an average of 90 months. Of the federal drug trafficking cases from Ohio, 66% of offenders were eligible for non-prison sentences and still received prison time.

If you or a loved one are facing federal charges, contact a Stow federal criminal defense lawyer for guidance.

Why Choose Us?

Don’t underestimate the power of private legal representation. DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder know how to beat charges in Ohio drug crime cases. When you choose us, you get our most aggressive efforts and what we believe to be the highest standard of legal services in the state. 

We are familiar with local courts, including the Stow Municipal Court, located in the city courthouse at 4400 Courthouse Boulevard in Stow, where misdemeanor drug crimes are handled, and the Summit County Common Pleas Court General Division, where felony drug cases are heard.

FAQs

What Are the New Drug Laws in Ohio?

New drug laws in Ohio have been updated for some drug-related penalties and charges, especially those pertaining to marijuana possession penalties and fentanyl-related offenses, as well as the guidelines for sentencing convictions for these crimes. For example, low-level possession charges have been reformed so that convictions result in reduced penalties. 

Conversely, trafficking charges have been reformed to have increased penalties. Speak with an Ohio drug crime lawyer to ensure your understanding of these laws.

What Is the Charge of Drug Abuse in Ohio?

The charge of drug abuse in Ohio usually refers to charges of possession of a controlled substance. This is an older phrase that is less likely to be used in formal settings. Ohio law refers to these crimes as possession of drugs or possession of controlled substances. Penalties for these crimes are dependent on the type of drug and the amount of substance, as well as the offender’s prior history.

How Many Grams Is a Felony in Ohio?

The amount of a controlled substance in grams that will result in a felony in Ohio varies by the type of drug in question. For instance, in Ohio, a possession of marijuana charge of less than 5 grams is considered a minor misdemeanor. However, possession of only a few grams of more dangerous drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, or methamphetamine, is a felony charge that carries mandatory prison sentences. 

What Drugs Are Decriminalized in Ohio?

Small amounts of marijuana have been partially decriminalized in Ohio. Possession of less than 5 grams of marijuana is considered a minor misdemeanor, for which a conviction requires no jail time. However, marijuana is still considered a controlled substance, and the drug itself has not been decriminalized, only possession of a very small amount. Drug crimes involving any amount of other controlled substances will still result in felony charges.

Partner With a Reputable Stow Drug Crime Lawyer

When you need a respectable Stow drug crime attorney who gets results using cutting-edge legal strategies, you need DiCaudo, Pitchford, & Yoder. Contact our law office as soon as possible so we can get started on your case.