Experienced Drug Crimes Lawyers In Washington D.C.
Our experienced drug crime attorneys at Lotze Mosley LLP in Washington D.C. and in the State of Maryland have tried over one hundred criminal cases that required special legal attention because of their jurisdiction and circumstances.
Drug crimes that occur in Washington D.C. are handled differently than other criminal court activity in the United States, as they can be prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia or in D.C. Superior Court. Each legal venue requires an experienced defense attorney who knows the techniques of the prosecutors and the temperament of the court officials, and the experienced attorneys at Lotze Mosley LLP are able to provide solutions for our clients that fit not only their unique needs but those of the government.
Drug Crime Penalties in Washington D.C.
When someone is charged with a drug crime in Washington D.C. or Maryland, the penalties will be dictated by the circumstances of the individual’s arrest and how the prosecutor forms their case.
Those variables can include the:
- Type of drug, including:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- MDMA, also known as Ecstasy
- PCP
- Actual crime, and whether it is a misdemeanor or felony, including:
- Drug possession
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Distribution of drugs
- Conspiracy to distribute
- Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Criminal history of the defendant
- Location of the crime
- Prosecutor’s jurisdiction
The Washington D.C. Superior Court maintains harsh drug crime penalties, even for first offenders, which is why it is important to retain an accomplished criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights and your best interests are protected before appearing in court.
Understanding Drug-Free Zones And Their Harsher Penalties In Washington D.C.
While most cities impose harsher penalties for drug crimes that occur in a “drug-free zone”, the Washington D.C. court system is unforgiving when individuals commit these crimes in areas that are designated as drug-free.
The penalties for committing a drug-related offense in a drug-free zone are literally twice as harsh as they are outside of these areas.
If convicted, the defendant will face:
- Twice the maximum prison sentence as the charge would usually solicit
- Twice the maximum fine
As government officials in the Nation’s Capital focus on making an example of drug crime defendants in our courtrooms, it is imperative that anyone charged with these crimes understands their rights and the laws that affect their prosecution.
At Lotze Mosley LLP, our criminal defense attorneys will provide the resources each of our clients need to make informed decisions regarding their case’s charges.
Drug-free zones in Washington D.C. include all areas within 1,000 feet of the following:
- Events sponsored by certain federal and Washington D.C. government institutions
- Schools, including:
- Grade schools
- Secondary schools
- High schools
- Colleges
- Universities
- Daycare centers
- Public swimming pools
- Playgrounds
- Youth centers
- Public libraries
- Public housing
The prosecutor’s office will seek the maximum penalty for any drug crimes that are committed in drug-free zones. It is important that your case is handled professionally by an experienced attorney to produce the best results available.
Is Possession Of Marijuana A Drug Crime In Washington D.C.?
Marijuana use, possession, and distribution are common charges in Washington D.C., and as the laws change, so does the confusion regarding its legality.
Possession of marijuana, in some cases, is penalized with fines instead of criminal charges. However, that only applies to possession that occurs within the home, and only covers up to one ounce of marijuana.
Smoking marijuana in public is illegal and can lead to criminal charges. And while simple possession charges are considered a misdemeanor, any method of possession with intent to distribute, conspiracy to distribute, or the actual act of distribution will lead to an arrest and tough charges by the prosecutor’s office.
Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys At Lotze Mosley LLP Today
If you have been arrested on drug charges in Washington D.C. or the State of Maryland, it is important that you contact an attorney before you appear in court, so you are aware of your rights and our ability to provide solutions for your case by calling (202) 759-7568 today. Do not attempt to face the prosecutor’s office alone, or endure the extended charges they will add to your arrest to make an example of you before the judge. Contact Lotze Mosley LLP today to learn how we can help you through this difficult time by designing legal solutions for your unique case.