Drug Charges

Drug Charges Attorney Serving Eastern Washington

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Drug charges may range from federal felony charges at their most severe to state misdemeanor charges. Whether you have been charged with a federal felony or a state misdemeanor offense, drug possession, and trafficking charges must be taken seriously. At their most severe, drug charges can result in lengthy prison time, heavy financial penalties, and a long-lasting criminal record. It is important to hire a competent attorney as soon as you realize that you are under investigation or immediately after you have been charged with a drug crime. One of the most effective defense strategies is to aggressively investigate the prosecution's case against you and to file the right legal motions to suppress illegal evidence.

Learn more about narcotics charges and other issues at my Criminal Defense FAQ

At the Law Offices of Gerald R. Smith, I provide aggressive drug crimes defense that focuses on helping you stay out of prison and avoid property forfeitures. I am trial lawyer Gerald Smith. I offer more than twelve years of federal criminal defense experience. I am a solo practice criminal defense attorney because I believe it is the most effective way to be responsive to your needs and react quickly to the details of your case, as tactics shift. I am dedicated to providing the best representation for those who need it most and too often get it least.

I provide effective defense for people who have been arrested or face arrest for federal or state drug charges such as:

• Marijuana possession
• Cocaine distribution or trafficking
• Meth lab operations, manufacturing
• School zone violations
• Date rape drug possession

Property Forfeiture and Drug Charges

Under the Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO), as well as state and local legislation, the state can seize assets it believes the accused as acquired with money from illegal drug activity. Typically, property forfeitures are not initiated in drug cases unless someone is charged with manufacturing or smuggling illegal drugs and narcotics. However, the authorities have been known to seize cars, boats, trucks, or cabins found to have drugs in them. In other case, federal authorities may freeze the accused bank accounts.

The practical effect of these laws is clear: it hampers or prevents people accused of drug crimes from using much needed assets to defend themselves. Additionally, forfeiture proceedings are civil proceedings. This means that even if you are found "not guilty" of the crimes you are charged with, you can still lose the civil forfeiture trial brought against you by the government.

I'll be on your side the entire time

When you hire me to represent you, I work directly with you throughout the duration of your defense. I promise that you will never be handed off to an associate or a paralegal. I also rely on the expert testimony of medical and legal professionals to present a clear defense that the prosecution takes seriously. By fighting hard to protect your future, the prosecutor is more likely to reduce the charges or penalties.

If you face drug charges, you need to rely on an experienced criminal defense attorney who can make a difference in the outcome of your case. Contact the Law Offices of Gerald R. Smith right away for a free consultation.