Possession of Ecstasy

Attorneys Defending Those in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan Charged with Ecstasy Possession

Possession of ecstasy is an offense taken very seriously in the state of Michigan; in fact, Michigan is one of the toughest states in the nation when it comes to drug crimes. Those arrested for possessing ecstasy will face serious penalties if convicted. The Michigan ecstasy possession attorneys at Grabel & Associates recognize the importance of hiring a competent and aggressive lawyer immediately when charged with serious drug crimes.

Ecstasy is classified as a Schedule I drug in Michigan, which means it is one of the most dangerous in terms of abuse and potential for addiction. If you are arrested for possession of ecstasy, it is considered a felony offense. You could face penalties, which include a fine of up to $15,000, prison time of as much as 10 years, or both.

Definition of Ecstasy Possession

What is possession of ecstasy? Many people believe that in order to be charged with this offense, they must have the drug on their person. This is not the case. If you are found to have ecstasy in any location, which is under your control (car, home, or place of employment), you can be arrested for possession and you do not have to be present at the location of the ecstasy at the time.

In many cases, charges may be dismissed for first time offenders, as most are eligible pursuant to Section 7411 of the penal code to have their convictions taken under advisement. This simply means that if the offender successfully completes a term of probation, the charge against that individual will likely be dismissed. However, if the offender is younger than 21 years of age, it is advised that the offender attempt to have the conviction taken under HYTA, or the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act. This would also mean dismissal of the charge for the offender. HYTA is advisable for those under age 21 rather than 7411, primarily due to the fact that 7411 can only be used one time.

Ecstasy Possession Attorney in Michigan

Because there is no accepted medical use for this highly addictive Schedule I drug, Ecstasy possession is strictly prohibited under Michigan law. It is crucial that you protect not only your legal rights, but your future and freedom as well. As a highly reputable Michigan criminal defense lawyer, Scott Grabel will work vigorously to protect you from severe criminal punishment.

Also known on the street as MDMA, "E," "XTC," or "X," ecstasy is a highly dangerous and addictive drug, used decades ago by doctors in psychotherapy. The use of ecstasy became illegal in 1985, however many continued to use it as a "party" drug. Today, both state and federal authorities crack down hard on users, whether they are found in possession of ecstasy, or distributing/manufacturing the drug.

People typically use ecstasy for its effects, which include heightened awareness and increased energy, although it does have serious and sometimes lasting side effects such as memory loss. Because it can be detected for a substantial period of time after use in a drug test, it is essential that those who are on probation consult with a lawyer, as failing a drug test while on probation could result in serious implications. Whether you have just been arrested for possession, are under investigation, or on probation, the professionals at Grabel & Associates will work to protect you from severe criminal penalties that can have a lasting negative impact on your life.

Michigan Criminal Penalties for Possession of Ecstasy

A conviction for ecstasy possession subjects the offender to serious penalties, even for possession of a small amount of the drug. Any amount of ecstasy will incur a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and/or fines of as much as $15,000 according to the Michigan Penal Code 333.7403. Licensing sanctions will apply as well; a first offender will have his or her driver's license suspended for 6 months, with eligibility for a restricted license after 30 days with petition to court. License suspension increases to one year with a second offense, with eligibility for a restricted license after 60 days.

There are other factors that can increase the sentence an individual is given for a conviction on an ecstasy possession charge. Penalties generally become more severe if the individual is found in possession in close proximity to a park, school, church or business. Individuals who have past drug-related convictions will also face harsher sentencing.

Michigan ecstasy possession lawyers also know that police and prosecutors are often overzealous in their pursuit of drug offenders, and will often vigorously pursue any way possible to accuse those who are found to be in possession of ecstasy with having the intent to deliver or sell the drug.

Protect Your Freedom and Future

If you have been arrested for possessing ecstasy, it does not automatically mean that you must face the consequences. You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Our team of talented attorneys will work aggressively to have the charges against you dismissed, or explore other sentencing options, which will allow you to move forward with your life and stay out of jail.

At Grabel & Associates, we give every client the intense focus and individual attention necessary to obtain the best possible outcome. Our case analyst is available 24/7. Do not put it off. Contact us now at 1-800-342-7896 and put the best drug crime defense lawyers in Michigan to work for you today.