For the past few decades, cocaine use in the United States has been a serious issue. Each year, more than 20% of all drug-related deaths are caused by cocaine. Throughout the state of Louisiana, cocaine is easy to obtain on the street in multiple forms including in its most popular form, crack cocaine. When a person uses cocaine, their mental state is altered. Repeated cocaine use often leads to addiction as the user seeks to replicate their first high after having developed a tolerance. Using greater quantities of cocaine can lead to erratic behavior. Once addicted, a person will go to great lengths to obtain cocaine and may start selling it themselves as an additional source of income.
If you or someone you know is involved with cocaine, here are three facts you should know about the potential possession of cocaine charges you could face if this activity comes to the attention of law enforcement.
Penalties of Possession of Cocaine in Louisiana Are Serious
Both the State of Louisiana and the federal government prohibit the possession, sale, and use of cocaine. Therefore, if a person is found in possession of cocaine, the penalties are severe and can include:
- Up to 60 years in prison
- Up to $600,000 in fines
A repeat offender or a person with multiple drug charges will face more serious penalties than a first-time offender. Anyone who is charged with possession of cocaine should seek the help of a knowledgeable drug defense attorney since it takes an extremely well-researched and viable defense to stand up in court.
You Have a Right to an Attorney in a Cocaine Possession Case
Even a person facing severe drug charges is entitled to their civil rights, and that includes the right to an attorney. It’s always in the best interest of the person facing the charges to obtain a personal attorney with a proven track record defending serious drug charges. However, anyone who is unable to afford an attorney has a right to a state-appointed attorney to defend them in court.
When you’re searching for an attorney, it’s imperative to ask them about their methods for building a credible defense. The best attorneys will take the opportunity to get to know you and the details surrounding your case.
There Are Viable Defense Strategies for Possession of Cocaine
The best way to build a viable defense is to understand the foundational strategies and build upon them using the details of your case. The most common defense strategies for possession of cocaine include:
- Unlawful search and seizure
- The drugs belonged to someone else
- Not real cocaine
- Planted drugs
- Entrapment
When you’re facing drug charges, it can be difficult to imagine there’s a viable defense strategy you can use. But that’s not the reality of the situation. Drug defense attorneys are trained to identify defense strategies in even the toughest cases. If you’re facing drug charges, you should always consult an attorney regarding your best defense strategy before you’re scheduled to appear in court. Furthermore, hiring a drug attorney right away will give you a better chance at mitigating the charges before you have to stand before a judge.
Choose An Experienced Drug Defense Attorney in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the top choice for drug defense attorneys is The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm. With more than 25 years of experience, the attorneys at the firm have represented thousands of clients facing drug charges across Louisiana.
Clients, judges, and prosecutors respect Eric Johnson for his knowledge of criminal defense strategies and track record winning cases for his clients. He understands the importance of getting to know his clients and wants everyone who chooses to work with him to receive the best service in the industry.
To schedule a free consultation regarding your drug possession case, call The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm at 318-377-1555 today or complete our contact form.