Winston-Salem Drug Possession Attorney

Aggressive Defense Against Drug Possession Charges in Forsyth & Guilford Counties

If you have been arrested or charged with a drug-related offense, you need the help of a competent attorney. At Eustache Law, our Winston-Salem drug possession lawyer is here to provide you with professional and personalized legal services. We will walk you through every step of the legal process and fight aggressively in your case. Let us help you today.

Facing drug possession charges in Winston-Salem, NC? Request your initial consultation with a drug possession lawyer near you by calling (336) 827-9208 or filling out our online form.

What Is Drug Possession?

Drug possession is the unlawful possession of a controlled substance. It is a crime to knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance, unless you have a valid prescription from a medical doctor.

Possession can be actual, constructive, or joint. Actual possession occurs when the drugs are on your person. Constructive possession occurs when the drugs are in a place that you control. Joint possession occurs when two or more people share actual possession of the drugs.

Types of Drug Crimes in North Carolina

Drug possession charges are most often associated with marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other illegal narcotics. However, it is also a crime to possess prescription drugs without a valid prescription.

Defense Strategies Against Drug Possession Charges

There are a number of defense strategies that may be used in drug possession cases. 

Effective Defense Tactics Include:

• Lack of knowledge that the substance was a controlled substance
• Lack of knowledge that the substance was in a place that you control
• Lack of control over the place where the substance was found
• Illegal search and seizure

When you retain Eustache Law, we will work with you to develop a customized defense strategy based on the unique details of your case.

Penalties for Drug Possession Convictions

The penalties for drug possession will depend on the type and amount of the controlled substance that was possessed. Criminal penalties may include jail time, fines, community service, and more. In any case, a conviction for drug possession will have a significant impact on your life. You may lose your driver's license and be unable to obtain housing or government benefits. You may also be ineligible to receive student loans or grants, federal jobs, and professional licenses. Additionally, a conviction may result in the loss of custody of your children or the termination of your parental rights.

North Carolina Marijuana Possession Laws

While many states have legalized medicinal and/or recreational cannabis, North Carolina is not one of those states. Possession and use of marijuana is still illegal in the state.

Possession of half an ounce or less of cannabis is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of $200. However, possession of between more than half an ounce and 1.5 oz is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for up to 45 days and a fine not exceeding $1,000.

Lastly, possession of more than 1.5 oz to 10 lbs is a Class I felony, which can result in imprisonment for up to 8 months and a $1,000, if convicted. Possession of over 10 lbs of cannabis can be charged as possession with intent to distribute, which carries harsher criminal penalties.

Contact Our Winston-Salem Drug Possession Attorney Today

If you have been arrested for drug possession, you need to speak with our drug possession lawyer in Winston-Salem as soon as possible. At Eustache Law, we will provide you with the personalized attention you need and walk you through every step of the process. We will fight aggressively to protect your rights and future.

Contact us at (336) 827-9208 to speak with our drug possession attorney in Winston-Salem.