In Pennsylvania, police and prosecutors treat drug crimes seriously due to the harmful effects that illegal drugs have on communities. As a result, when you face prosecution for a drug offense, you need an experienced defense attorney who can help level the playing field so you can stand up for yourself and fight for a positive outcome to your charges. A lawyer can help you understand the details of your case, walk you through your options, and defend your reputation and future.
Following an arrest on drug charges, you deserve seasoned legal counsel to protect your rights and interests. Contact Andrew F. Skala, Esquire, for an initial case evaluation with a drug crimes defense lawyer to learn how I will advocate for you to help you seek a favorable resolution to your charges.
Facing prosecution for drug offenses can put your freedom, reputation, and future at stake. Your choice of legal counsel can make a difference in the outcome of your case and how you move forward with your life after resolving your charges. Choose Andrew F. Skala, Esquire, to guide you because of my firm’s values, which include:
I can help you resolve criminal charges involving drug offenses such as:
Penalties for drug offenses in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the nature of the offense, the type and quantity of drugs involved in the offense, or the number of prior convictions a defendant has. For example, a conviction for simple possession may result in a penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $5,000, while subsequent convictions can lead to penalties of up to three years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. Possession of controlled substances with intent to manufacture or deliver can vary based on the type and quantity of drugs. Finally, possession or use of drug paraphernalia can impose a penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
Drug convictions can have other long-term consequences, including leaving you with a criminal record that may negatively affect your ability to pursue employment, housing, or educational opportunities due to the social stigma of drug offenses. As a result, you need highly experienced and dedicated legal counsel to help you fight for the best possible resolution to your case when charged with drug crimes.
A person charged with a drug offense might pursue various defense strategies to contest the prosecution’s allegations, such as:
Furthermore, individuals charged with simple drug possession may claim immunity from criminal prosecution under Pennsylvania’s drug overdose response immunity law, which confers immunity for a defendant if:
Prosecutors will vigorously pursue drug charges against defendants suspected of committing offenses with unlawful controlled substances. As a result, having legal counsel can help you fight to protect your rights and interests in the criminal justice system. Criminal defense lawyer Andrew F. Skala, Esquire, can help you seek a better resolution to your drug charges by: