Anabolic Steroids Possession
Drug Possession Defense Attorney for Those in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan Charged with Possession of Anabolic Steroids
While many people would not consider anabolic steroids in the same category with other serious illegal substances that lead to the arrest and imprisonment of individuals, it is in fact illegal to possess and/or distribute, deliver, or sell these controlled substances. Physicians prescribe anabolic steroids for medical reasons, just as they do other drugs and narcotics, which are illegal without a valid prescription. When you are arrested for anabolic steroids possession, it is urgent that you consult with a seasoned Michigan drug crimes lawyer as soon as possible. At Grabel & Associates, our attorneys are well known and highly respected across the state of Michigan for providing vigorous, effective defense for individuals charged with drug crimes.
The use of anabolic steroids has become widely known as "doping" in the Olympic and sports arenas, as more and more athletes have been discovered using these substances illegally to enhance performance. In the late 1990's, anabolic steroids became almost a household word as it was discovered that some highly respected baseball players tested positive for these drugs. Recently, it has been alleged that a world-champion cyclist was doping throughout his career. It has long been known that professional and casual athletes, as well as serious bodybuilders use these steroids to gain strength, build muscle size, and enhance endurance.
Even female athletes have used anabolic steroids to enhance athletic performance or build muscle, sometimes with embarrassing side effects. Because of their similarity to the male sex hormone testosterone, women can experience excess body or facial hair; the menstrual cycle may even cease. There are some very serious and even dangerous side effects associated with the use of these drugs, including liver disease, elevated cholesterol, hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart disease. Anabolic steroid possession without a valid prescription is a criminal offense that can leave individuals who are convicted facing serious consequences.
Michigan Imposes Serious Criminal Penalties on Individuals Found Guilty of Possessing Anabolic Steroids
In 1990 the Anabolic Steroid Control Act was passed by Congress, and anabolic steroids were classified as Schedule III substances. Schedule III drugs are those that do have a legitimate medical use, and a moderate potential for addiction and/or abuse. Morphine is another drug that falls in this drug classification. While not penalized as harshly as Schedule I and Schedule II drugs, the punishment is still severe.
If you are found guilty in Michigan for anabolic steroids possession, the penalties you face depend on a number of factors including whether it is your first offense, where the crime took place, and whether a minor was involved.
First-time offenders will typically face penalties, which include up to one year in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000. Sentencing becomes more serious for those with a prior drug conviction. For example, if you have one prior drug conviction and are charged with anabolic steroids possession, you could face penalties of 15 days to 2 years in prison, and a fine of up to $2,500. Two or more prior drug convictions could mean you spend up to 3 years in prison and/or pay fines of up to $5,000.
In order to avoid these serious criminal penalties, you must secure the legal support and guidance of a capable and aggressive attorney.
Contact Our Talented Team of Michigan Anabolic Steroids Possession Lawyers Today
As seasoned drug crimes attorneys, we understand that because you are charged with a crime, it does not necessarily mean you are guilty. We know that there are numerous options available to clients and alternative sentencing considerations as well. We explore all legal options and analyze every client's case thoroughly in order to determine the most effective approach. We also know that the outcome for the client is only as good as the criminal defense attorney he or she hires. You must have a lawyer who is both an effective and skilled litigator and negotiator.
At Grabel & Associates we specialize in criminal defense, and protecting our clients' freedom. Let us put our decades of experience and skill to work for you today. We offer a free initial evaluation and are available to you 24/7. Contact us today online or call us at 1-800-342-7896, and put our winning team of Michigan drug crimes defense attorneys on your side.