Drug Possession Defense Attorney for Drexel Students
Drug possession is a serious crime that could easily derail a student’s academic life. The penalties for drug possession are dependent on the weight and type of drugs that a defendant had in their possession. If a student is caught with a large amount of dangerous drugs, they could face severe penalties. If you attend Drexel University, and you were arrested for drug possession, you should consult with an experienced Philadelphia drug possession defense attorney for Drexel student.
We at the Law Offices of Lloyd Long recognize what is at stake for a student that is accused of drug possession, and we are dedicated to helping you fight your criminal case. To schedule a free legal consultation, contact the Law Offices of Lloyd Long at (215) 302-0171, or contact us online.
Common Drug Possession Cases Our Firm Handles for Drexel Students
Drug possession is a common offense that is litigated within the criminal court system. However, you should not downplay the penalties associated with this crime due to its commonality. As mentioned, criminal charges for drug possession are dictated by the weight and type of drugs found in possession of the defendant. As a result, some drug possession offenses will be less severe than others, like possessing marijuana as opposed to heroin.
Marijuana Possession
A person can be arrested for possession of marijuana if the substance is discovered on their person or in their personal property. Fortunately, Philadelphia has more lenient laws regarding the possession of marijuana. Specifically, under the Small Amount of Marijuana Program (SAM), a person arrested with less than 30 grams of may only face minimal penalties.
If the District Attorney’s Office approved the defendant’s participation in the SAM program, the defendant would only have to pay a $25 fine for possessing less than 30 grams of marijuana. Also, the defendant will not have to enter a plea of guilty and prosecution will be withdrawn once the defendant satisfies all requirements of the program.
However, if a defendant is found with more than 30 grams of marijuana in their possession, they can face misdemeanor criminal charges that can result in up to a year in prison and thousands in criminal fines. Additionally, if law enforcement finds evidence that a defendant intended to distribute marijuana, the penalties will be severe if convicted.
Prescription Medication Possession
A person can be arrested for possession of prescription drugs if they are found with drugs that belong to another or if they possess prescription medication without a valid prescription. There are a number of drugs that are illegal to possess without a prescription. For example, possessing a dangerous narcotic like Percocet or Oxycodone can result in being charged with a misdemeanor.
Many first-time offenders discovered with prescription medication may only face up to a year in prison, depending on the number of pills in their possession. However, repeat offenders can face multiple years behind bars.
Other common illegal substances that could lead to drug possession charges include:
- Ambien
- Fentanyl
- Hashish
- Heroin
- MDMA
- Steroids
- Valium
- Vicodin
- Xanax
- Possession of drug paraphernalia (e.g., needles, pipes, Ziploc bags)
If you were arrested for possessing any of the above substances or a different kind of drug, you should waste no time in speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
How a Drug Possession Offense Can Affect Your Academic Career at Drexel University
If you were found in possession of an illegal substance, there are a number of ways that this could affect your academic career. Drexel University students arrested for drug possession will likely face a disciplinary hearing regarding their alleged actions. This hearing may determine whether the student’s actions violated the student code of conduct that requires students to obey all state and federal laws.
If the drug possession arrest is deemed credible, the institution may begin preparations for a hearing. While it may seem like Drexel’s disciplinary process is similar to a court of law, there are some distinctions that make it different from a traditional court. As a result, it is important to work with an experienced attorney that can help you navigate what may seem like a daunting and unfamiliar process.
Students that are deemed guilty of violating the student code of conduct could face a number of disciplinary measures. For example, a student may be unable to take part in any athletic program, or they could lose the privilege of residing on campus with other students.
Contact Our Experienced Drug Possession Defense Lawyer for Drexel Students to Discuss Your Case
If you or a family member was arrested for drug possession while attending Drexel University, contact an experienced Philadelphia drug possession defense lawyer for Drexel University students. Criminal defense lawyer Lloyd Long has extensive experience litigating many drug possession cases, and he is ready to work with you. To schedule a free case evaluation, contact the Law Offices of Lloyd Long at (215) 302-0171.
