Possession of Cocaine

Drug Possession Defense Attorney for Those in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Michigan, Lansing, and Throughout Michigan Charged with Cocaine Possession

Michigan laws are tough on drugs; police and other authorities crack down hard on those arrested for possession of cocaine or other illegal drugs and narcotics. If convicted of cocaine possession, you could potentially go to prison for a significant amount of time. At Grabel & Associates, our Michigan possession defense lawyers are experienced, knowledgeable, and possess the skill necessary to obtain the best possible outcome for our clients. We work to keep those arrested on serious drug charges out of jail, and will explore every option in order to protect you from serious penalties.

We understand that being charged with a drug offense is stressful and downright frightening; you have no idea what you face, or what the consequences will be. We will answer all of your questions, explain the legal process, and work with you to determine the best option for your particular situation. Cocaine is a Schedule II drug, which means it is highly addictive and considered dangerous. The sanctions individuals face if convicted on cocaine possession charges are severe.

Michigan Cocaine Possession Laws

Possessing cocaine or other illicit drugs is illegal, and many people misinterpret just what "possession" actually means. You can be found guilty of this offense without having cocaine on your person. Cocaine does not have to be found in your pocket or purse in order for you to be arrested and charged with possession of cocaine. All that is necessary is that you have control over the drug, whether it is in your vehicle, your home, your workplace, or even in close proximity to you in a public place.

Cocaine comes in two different forms, one being crack cocaine or simple "crack" as some refer to it. A powdered form that dissolves in water is hydrochloride salt, which is usually snorted through the nose, injected with a needle or taken by mouth. Crack cocaine is a type of cocaine that is a cheaper form of "freebase," and is typically smoked. Cocaine is one of the most popular party drugs in the U.S. today, coming in second to marijuana.

Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Michigan

Even if you are not found to be in possession of cocaine but are caught "using" the drug, you will be charged with a misdemeanor, which subjects you to penalties including jail time of up to one year and/or fines of up to $2,000.

Because cocaine has a high potential for addiction and/or abuse, the penalties are severe for those convicted. Individuals who are found to be in possession of 50 grams or less may be charged with a felony. The consequences you may face include fines of up to $25,000 and up to four years in prison. As you might expect, the more cocaine you are found to have in your possession, the more severe the penalties will be. For possession of cocaine in amounts of 50 grams or more, the penalties are as follows:

• 50 grams to 449 grams of cocaine, up to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $250,000
• 450 grams to 999 grams of cocaine, up to 30 years in prison and/or fines of up to $500,000
• 1,000 grams or more of cocaine, up to life in prison, and/or fines of up to $1,000,000

As you can see, the penalties for cocaine possession are extremely harsh; if it is determined that you intended to manufacture, deliver, or distribute the drug, the penalties will increase dramatically. Additionally, police and prosecutors vigorously pursue individuals who are found to be in possession of a substantial amount of cocaine, as it raises their suspicion that those individuals intended to sell, manufacture or otherwise distribute the drug. You could find that a charge of possession is trumped up to a charge of possession with intent.

Possible Alternative Sentences for First-Time Offenders Charged with Cocaine Possession

The possibility of spending time in jail or prison strikes fear in most individuals, which is understandable. With help from a dedicated Michigan drug crimes lawyer, you may be able to avoid the harshest penalties, if it is your first drug offense.

In many situations, the judge may allow a first-time offender to serve probation rather than spend time in prison. Additionally, many cases involving cocaine possession result in a plea agreement; essentially this means a sentence, which is more lenient, may be worked out with the prosecutor. There are also cases in which the court may focus on rehabilitating the accused individual rather than punishing him or her, depending on the jurisdiction in which that individual was charged with a crime. Our criminal defense attorneys will work to determine any alternative sentencing options you may be eligible for.

Call Us Today to Discuss Your Situation

As one of the most highly regarded Michigan drug crime defense firms, we are known statewide for the exceptional representation we offer our clients. Our prior results in protecting clients from jail time and harsh penalties speak to our skill, experience, and ability.

We work diligently on behalf of our clients, giving each the personal attention and focus he or she deserves. If you or someone you know has been charged with cocaine possession contact us today. We are available 24/7, and offer a free consultation. Call us now at 1-800-342-7896 to speak with an experienced case analyst concerning your case.