Drug Charge Lawyers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Miller & Hilgendorf are drug charge lawyers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Louisiana has some of the toughest drug laws in the country. For example, while many states have legalized marijuana or reduced charges for possession to a ticket offense, marijuana possession in Louisiana can land you in jail for up to 15 days and can lead to a fine up to $300. If you are found with more than 14 grams of marijuana, you can face up to 6 months in jail. The penalties for drug charges or possession charges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana will depend on the type of drugs you were found to possess. Louisiana divides drugs into five “schedules.” Schedule 1 drugs are considered the most dangerous drugs under Louisiana law. Schedule 1 substances include heroin, marijuana, LSD, and other substances like ecstasy. While the specific penalties for each schedule 1 substance varies by the amount you possessed and the type of drug, the consequences can be quite serious. You could face up to 30 years in prison, fines up to $600,000, and the other collateral consequences of having a drug conviction on your record. Narcotic possession carries the highest penalties, but possession of marijuana can also lead to jail time and serious fines.

If you are facing drug possession charges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, reach out to the drug charge lawyer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana at Miller & Hilgendorf. Our firm can review the circumstances of your arrest, the charges you are facing, and fight for your rights. Many police stops and searches are later found to be illegal. If you were subject to an illegal stop or search, any evidence found might be thrown out, meaning your drug charges might possibly be dropped. A qualified drug charge lawyer can review your case in detail and determine whether there may be any factors that can lead to the dismissal of your case or reduced charges. In some cases, individuals may need drug treatment, not jail time. Depending on the nature of your case, a qualified drug charge lawyer can help you understand what might be your best roadmap forward. When your freedom, your reputation, and your future are on the line, you need Miller & Hilgendorf, drug charge lawyers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Your Rights When Stopped by Police in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

If you are stopped by police, you have certain important rights under the law. Individuals often get charged for drug possession because they were first stopped by police, either in a traffic stop or while walking down the street. What are your rights in Louisiana if you are stopped by the police? According to the ACLU:

• You have the right to remain silent. If officers ask you if you possess drugs, you can be polite and say, “I’m sorry officer, but I cannot answer any questions without my lawyer present.” If any question makes you uncomfortable, do not lie. Simply tell the officer that you wish to remain silent and that you would like to speak to your lawyer.
• You have the right to refuse to a search. Officers cannot search your pockets, bags, car, or home without a warrant or without your permission. Do not give officers a permission to search anything without a warrant.
• You have the right to ask if you are under arrest and if you are not under arrest, you can leave in a calm manner. If you are stopped in the street by an officer, you do not need to answer any questions. You can ask the officer if you are under arrest. If you are not under arrest, you can leave in a calm manner. If you are under arrest, ask why. You must be read your rights.

If you are stopped by the police, be as polite as possible. Officers may ask you questions. While you can simply choose to remain silent, it may be best if you simply tell officers that you are sorry but cannot answer questions without a lawyer. In some states you are required to assert your right to remain silent and may be required to provide officers with your name. If you are placed under arrest, ask for a lawyer. You have the right to have one appointed if you cannot afford one. Or, consider reaching out to the drug charge attorneys at Miller & Hilgendorf in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Whatever you do, do not lie, and do not resist arrest. Do not consent to a search and do not answer questions without your lawyer present. Let your lawyer sort this out. Remember, that any violation of your rights during this process can result in charges being dropped. Protect your rights by knowing them and by seeking qualified legal counsel.

 Get the Best Possible Defense in Baton Rouge

If, in the course of your arrest, you are found to be in possession of drugs, you could face serious charges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Miller & Hilgendorf are drug charge lawyers who will take the time to review the circumstances of your arrest, the legality of any search or seizure, and can speak to witnesses who may have seen your arrest. We can also evaluate other facts in your case. If you are facing drug charges, you are innocent until proven guilty and may have many options available to you. Regardless of whether you are facing charges for illegal prescription drugs, heroin, or marijuana, our firm will fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Prosecutors have sometimes been using old laws to charge family members when loved ones overdose. These drug charges can carry serious sentencing and can leave individuals facing charges of manslaughter. If you are facing any serious drug charge, you need the best representation you can get. Our firm will review all options and fight to get your charges reduced or dropped, or ask the courts to consider treatment options instead of jail time. Speak to Miller & Hilgendorf, drug possession lawyers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana today.

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