Defending Drug Crime Charges in Michigan - Our Proactive Approach

Defending those Charged with Possession, Cultivation, Manufacturing, and Selling Illegal Drugs and/or Narcotics in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan

The talented team of Michigan drug crime defense attorneys at Grabel & Associates provides effective defense strategies for those accused of all types of drug-related offenses including possession, trafficking, manufacturing and selling drugs such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and even prescription narcotics such as oxycodone and Vicodin. We know that there are many defenses to drug crime charges. Our proactive approach has helped us reach positive outcomes for many of our clients, who would have otherwise faced fines, jail/prison time and other severe penalties.

We know that state, federal, and local law enforcement agencies as well as drug enforcement teams often use "sneaky" or otherwise underhanded tactics in investigating and prosecuting those suspected of drug-related offenses. Our knowledge of how these agencies work and the tactics they often use allows us to provide our clients with unsurpassed legal counsel. Some of the common defenses used in defending our clients include:

Possession of Drugs

Depending on your situation, a seasoned Michigan drug crimes defense attorney with our firm may use one or a combination of the following defenses for those arrested for possession of drugs:

• The drugs are not yours. A common defense, it's often an accused individual's first instinct to claim the drugs did not belong to him or her. Whether found in your car or at your home, an aggressive defense lawyer will put pressure on the prosecution to prove the drug belonged to you. Additionally, your attorney will make certain that prosecutors can produce the drugs you are being charged of possessing. Seized drugs often get lost in the legal shuffle.

• Entrapment. Entrapment may be a sound defense strategy when the drugs in question were provided by the state in a string operation or other scenario in which an individual is lured into committing an offense he or she may have otherwise not committed.

• Unlawful search and seizure. Evidence obtained without the proper warrant or the individual's permission may not be entered into evidence, unless the illicit drug is found in plain view. Your right to due process of the law is guaranteed under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which includes that lawful search and seizure procedures are performed prior to you being arrested.

Other defenses that may be used on your behalf include crime lab analysis, missing drugs or medical marijuana exception among others.

Drug Trafficking

Some of the same defense strategies may be used to protect the legal rights and freedom of those accused of drug trafficking as are used in defense of possession.

• Lack of a search warrant. Again, authorities must have the proper search warrant to proceed forward in obtaining or seizing evidence, unless it is in plain view or authorities have probable cause to perform a search.

• Lack of probable cause. Authorities must have a valid reason to search without a warrant, such as scales, drugs or other paraphernalia relevant to drug trafficking in plain sight. Authorities must have more than suspicion in order to perform a search or make an arrest; otherwise, the charges may be dismissed.

• Suppression of confession or statements. Authorities must read you your Miranda rights prior to accepting any confessions or statements you may make, or before questioning you about the alleged offense. Any statements you make prior to being read your Miranda rights may not be admissible in court.

As with possession, entrapment is a defense often used to defend individuals arrested for drug trafficking.

Drug Manufacturing

Considered an extremely serious offense by both state and federal governments, drug manufacturing can result in substantial prison time (possibly even life) for those convicted. Whether you have been arrested for manufacturing drugs in a chemical lab or maintain a growing facility, you must have a vigorous, effective defense. Some of the defenses used on behalf of individuals charged with manufacturing drugs include Miranda rights violation, illegal wiretaps, illegal search and seizure or invalid traffic stops.

There are numerous defenses to drug crime charges that may be used on behalf of those arrested for various drug-related offenses. Never assume that because you have been arrested or are under investigation, you will be convicted. At Grabel & Associates, our Michigan drug crimes defense lawyers are aggressive, confident, capable and dedicated to obtaining the best possible outcome for every client we represent. Contact us 24/7 at 1-800-342-7896 to speak with our firm regarding the specifics of your case.