Honolulu Drug Crime Lawyer

Working Hard to Defend You Against Drug Crime Charges

Those who are charged with a drug crime in Honolulu face a very frightening situation. Some individuals are wrongly accused of a drug crime and are left to face the government on their own, not knowing how to defend themselves. In Honolulu, many individuals will be faced with an arrest for a drug crime involving all types of illegal narcotics, including crystal meth, cocaine, and marijuana.

There are many federal and state laws against the manufacturing, distribution, and possession of any controlled substance. There are also laws against the illegal use of prescription drugs.

Types of Drug Charges

There are many different types of drug crimes that you can be charged with, including:

• Paraphernalia
• Possession
• Manufacturing/Delivery
• Trafficking
• Dealing

At the Law Offices of Steve Cedillos, I offer aggressive representation to those who have been charged with a drug crime of any sort. Whether the offense involves marijuana or meth, I can help you navigate your case.

Defenses Against Drug Charges

• Illegal Search and Seizure: Explore how evidence obtained from an unlawful search may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of Knowledge: Discuss cases where the defendant may not have been aware of the drugs in their possession or in a vehicle.
• Entrapment: Explain how entrapment defenses can be used when law enforcement officers coerce or induce a person to commit a crime they wouldn't otherwise have committed.
• False Identification: In cases of mistaken identity, defendants may not be the person who committed the drug offense.
• Medical Marijuana: If the individual is using marijuana for medical purposes, they may be able to use this as a defense depending on the circumstances and local laws.

Consequences of Drug Convictions

• Long-term Effects on Criminal Record: Discuss the potential long-term impact of a drug conviction, such as limitations on future employment, travel, and civil rights.
• Felony vs. Misdemeanor Charges: Explain the difference between felony and misdemeanor drug charges and the impact of a felony conviction on a person’s future.
• Mandatory Drug Rehabilitation: Detail situations where drug offenders may be required to attend rehabilitation programs instead of serving jail time.

Drug Crime Sentencing in Honolulu

• Sentencing Guidelines: A brief breakdown of typical sentencing for different drug offenses in Honolulu, including any mandatory minimum sentences or enhanced penalties.
• Aggravating and Mitigating Factors: Explore how factors such as prior convictions, cooperation with law enforcement, and the amount of drugs involved can affect sentencing.

Drug Crimes and Federal vs. State Law

• Federal Drug Charges: Address how federal drug crime charges differ from state-level charges, including differences in penalties and the involvement of federal agencies like the DEA.
• State vs. Federal Jurisdiction: Clarify the difference between cases that fall under state jurisdiction versus federal jurisdiction and why it matters in drug-related offenses.

Impact of Drug Crimes on Immigration Status

• Immigration Consequences: Discuss how a drug conviction can affect an individual's immigration status, particularly for non-citizens or green card holders.
• Deportation Risk: Explore the potential risk of deportation following a drug-related conviction for individuals in the U.S. under certain visa statuses or as undocumented immigrants.

The Importance of Experienced Legal Representation

• Why Legal Representation Matters: Emphasize how having an experienced Honolulu drug crime lawyer can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome.
• Case Evaluation: Offer insight into how an attorney can evaluate the facts of the case, identify potential legal defenses, and create a strategy tailored to the client’s situation.

Adding these topics can provide a more comprehensive view of the legal landscape surrounding drug crime charges and the importance of having expert legal representation.

Have You Been Arrested for a Drug Crime?

If you are charged with a crime that is related to drugs, it is important to speak with a Honolulu criminal defense advocate from my firm. The penalties you can face for even the simple possession of marijuana are very heavy and require aggressive and experienced representation. Some of the penalties you may be facing for your charge include:

• Imprisonment
• Large fines
• Community service
• Probation
• Restitution. With a drug offense on your criminal record, it can prove difficult to secure a desirable job. In addition, you may be required to undergo drug testing or substance abuse counseling

No case is too large or too small for my firm to handle. Rather than dealing with the life-changing consequences that result with a drug crime conviction on your own, it is important to secure a strong drug crime attorney to help you deal with your charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I be arrested for drug possession even if the drugs aren’t mine?
  Yes, in many cases, you can be arrested for possession if the drugs are found on your property or in your vehicle, even if you claim they do not belong to you. However, this does not automatically mean you will be convicted. A skilled criminal defense attorney can challenge the evidence or argue your lack of knowledge of the drugs.
• What is the difference between possession and trafficking?
  Possession refers to having illegal drugs in your personal possession, while trafficking involves the distribution or transport of drugs with the intent to sell or distribute them. Trafficking charges usually carry heavier penalties due to the involvement of larger quantities or the potential to harm others.
• How can I challenge drug paraphernalia charges?
  Drug paraphernalia charges can often be challenged if there is insufficient evidence linking the items found to illegal drug activity. A lawyer may argue that the items are commonly used for lawful purposes or question the legality of the search that uncovered the paraphernalia.
• Can I be sentenced to prison for a first-time drug offense?
  While it’s possible to face jail time for a first-time drug offense, there are often alternative sentencing options such as probation or drug rehabilitation programs, especially for those who have no prior convictions. A lawyer can negotiate for more lenient sentencing based on the specifics of the case.
• What are the consequences of being convicted of drug possession with intent to distribute?
  A conviction for drug possession with intent to distribute is typically considered a more serious offense, and it often carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and probation. The severity of the sentence depends on factors like the type and quantity of drugs involved.
• Will a drug conviction impact my employment prospects?
  Yes, a drug conviction can severely limit your job opportunities, especially if the offense appears on your criminal record. Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction for a drug crime may make it harder to obtain certain jobs. However, some states allow for expungement of certain convictions, which could help clear your record.
• Can I get my drug charges dropped?
  In some cases, it is possible to have drug charges dropped or reduced if the prosecution does not have enough evidence to proceed with the case. An experienced attorney will assess the facts, challenge evidence, and work to get the best possible outcome for your case.