Criminal Defense & Drug Charges

Drugs

Three things are taken into consideration when determining how a drug-related charge will be treated: type, amount, and intended use. As little as one factor in each of these considerations can result in any charge being treated as a Felony, and also can mandate substantial active jail time in the event of a conviction. Conversely, these same things are taken into consideration when determining whether an accused will be able to consider a constructive or treatment-based resolution to his or her matter. Regardless of the classification of a drug offense, issues concerning Search and Seizure, Confidential Informants, and Constructive Possession are often present and should be considered extensively by any criminal defense attorney.

Assaults, Threats, and Other Crimes of the Person

Offenses of the person can often be very complicated, as State officials are typically only involved in an investigatory capacity. The interactions between two or more people are usually witnessed by few, and in this, the credibility of all relevant parties is extremely important in the outcome of a criminal process. Various factors are considered in determining how an Assault-type charge will be treated by the State, including the manner of the alleged act, the extent of the injuries, and the intent of the accused. Common issues going to the defense of a person charged are Self-Defense, Defense of Another, and the Credibility of the Accuser.

Property

Similar to Persons offenses, Property crimes are very much grounded in the relationships between individuals. Of course, many situations in this area involve people who have previously had little or no interaction, as in a charge of Shoplifting. But there are many other circumstances whereby the parties have had personal and working relationships, and this makes it all the more important to consider the rights and duties of those involved to determine how best to defend against an accusation. Most Property offenses require an element of Criminal Intent for one be convicted, so it follows that the state of mind of the accused should be considered in preparing a defense. Identification of the Accused as the offender and Consent of the Alleged Victim are also critical considerations in disputing a Property-based accusation.