Dayton Drug Crime Lawyer
Defending Clients Facing Drug Charges in Dayton & Cincinnati
At L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC, our criminal defense team handles many cases, including those involving drug crimes. If you have been accused of committing a drug crime in Dayton, OH, we can help defend you from this serious charge. Law enforcement is notorious for cracking down hard on drug crime, which is why it is one of the leading causes of incarceration in the U.S. If convicted of this serious offense, you could face imprisonment, fines, and a criminal record that may limit your employment and housing opportunities.
Are you facing drug charges in Ohio? Call L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC today at (937) 685-7006 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug crime attorney in Dayton, OH!
Ohio Drug Crime Cases We Handle
Our Dayton drug crime lawyers have handled the following kinds of drug cases:
- Possession of controlled substances
- Delivery or transport of controlled substances
- Distribution of controlled substances
- Sale of illicit drugs to minors
- Marijuana growth operations
- Manufacturing of crystal meth
- Prescription drug crimes
The penalties for drug crimes in Ohio depend on various factors, such as the type and quantity found in your possession.
For example, if a large drug amount is found in your possession, prosecutors may argue that your intent was to sell or distribute the drug. Our Dayton drug crime lawyers can help protect your rights amidst drug charges, both at the state and federal level.
Ohio Drug Crime Penalties
Ohio has strict penalties for drug crimes, ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony offenses. It is crucial to understand the potential consequences of a drug crime conviction in Ohio, as they can have a significant impact on your future.
Some common Ohio drug crime penalties include:
- Probation
- Fines
- Driver's license suspension
- Community service
- Drug treatment programs
- Jail time
- Prison sentence
Our experienced Dayton drug crime lawyers at L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC have a deep understanding of Ohio drug laws and can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate through the complexities of the criminal justice system.
In Ohio, drug crimes are taken seriously, and the penalties for these offenses can vary depending on the type of drug involved, the amount, and whether it's a first or repeat offense. Here are the penalties for drug crimes in Ohio, categorized into felonies and misdemeanors:
Felony Drug Crimes
- First-degree felony: Trafficking or manufacturing large amounts of Schedule I or II drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, can result in a prison sentence of up to 11 years and fines of up to $20,000.
- Second-degree felony: Trafficking or manufacturing large amounts of Schedule III, IV, or V drugs, such as prescription medications or marijuana, can lead to a prison sentence of up to eight years and fines of up to $15,000.
- Third-degree felony: Possession, trafficking, or manufacturing of moderate amounts of Schedule I or II drugs can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and fines of up to $10,000.
- Fourth-degree felony: Possession, trafficking, or manufacturing of moderate amounts of Schedule III, IV, or V drugs can lead to a prison sentence of up to 18 months and fines of up to $5,000.
- Fifth-degree felony: Possession, trafficking, or manufacturing of small amounts of Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V drugs can result in a prison sentence of up to 12 months and fines of up to $2,500.
Having a felony on your criminal record can also prove to be a long-term burden that limits opportunities for employment, professional licenses, and more. In regard to drug crimes, felonies are typically prosecuted when a case involves more serious offenses, large quantities of controlled substances, and other aggravating circumstances. Common felony drug crime charges in Ohio include sale or distribution of drugs, drug trafficking, manufacturing, and more.
Misdemeanor Drug Crimes
- First-degree misdemeanor: Possession or use of drugs classified as Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V can result in a jail sentence of up to 180 days and fines of up to $1,000.
- Second-degree misdemeanor: Possession or use of drug paraphernalia can lead to a jail sentence of up to 90 days and fines of up to $750.
- Minor misdemeanor: Possession or use of a small amount of marijuana (up to 100 grams) is considered a minor misdemeanor, resulting in a fine of up to $150.
It's important to note that the penalties mentioned above are general guidelines, and actual penalties may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. Additionally, Ohio law allows drug treatment programs and probation as alternatives to incarceration for non-violent drug offenses, particularly for first-time offenders.
Drug crime cases are hinged on a case's unique facts and circumstances, which means that a defense strategy must be tailored to the situation at hand. In all cases our Dayton drug crime lawyers handle, our law firm works to fully investigate the allegations and create a defense strategy that produces the best possible resolution. This may include exploring alternative sentencing options such as drug diversion when possible, reducing charges from felonies to misdemeanors, mitigation of penalties, or a fight at trial.
Federal Drug Cases in Ohio
In larger drug crime cases, the stakes can be even higher when the federal government becomes involved in an investigation or prosecution. If you or someone you know is currently under investigation for a federal drug crime or have been charged with a federal crime involving drugs, you must know that a lot is on the line. Government agencies handle federal cases with tremendous resources, aiming to gain convictions.
Additionally, federal drug crime cases, such as those involving trafficking, are known for resulting in incredibly harsh sentences and for implementing mandatory minimums that prevent judges from using their discretion when sentencing offenders. For these reasons, and because federal cases are unique and demand specially licensed attorneys, you should be intent on speaking with a member of our team as soon as possible when federal allegations are involved in your case.
Understanding Your Rights in Drug Crime Cases
When facing drug charges, it's important to understand your rights and options. Our experienced Dayton drug crime lawyer can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Some important rights to be aware of in drug crime cases include:
- The right to remain silent – You have the right to not incriminate yourself and should refrain from speaking to law enforcement without legal representation.
- The right to legal representation – You have the right to have an attorney present during any questioning or legal proceedings.
- The right to a fair trial – You have the right to a fair and impartial trial, where the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
- The right to challenge evidence – You have the right to challenge any evidence presented against you and to present evidence in your defense.
WHy Choose Our Dayton Drug Crime Lawyers
By understanding and exercising your rights, you can ensure that you receive a fair and just legal process. Contact our Dayton drug crime attorney today to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your rights and defend your case.
Are you facing drug charges in Ohio? Call L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC today at (937) 685-7006 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug crime attorney in Dayton, OH!
Why Hire Us?
Our dedicated law firm has over 50 years of combined legal experience serving men and women in Ohio. Nothing is more important to us than being able to make the voice of an accused individual heard to ensure a fair trial. No wonder we have been honored with inclusion among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
Why should you entrust your case to our Dayton drug crimes attorneys? Consider the following reasons:
- Our firm's founder is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy
- We are not afraid to take your case to trial
- We have handled thousands of cases
Contact Our Dayton Drug Crime Attorney Today
Our firm proudly extends its legal services to individuals living not just in Dayton, but also throughout Cincinnati.
No matter how complex or hopeless your case may seem, our firm is determined to secure the most positive outcome possible. Don't let a drug crime charge change the course of the rest of your life.
Contact L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC today to schedule a FREE consultation with our drug crime lawyer in Dayton, OH! Give us a call at (937) 685-7006.
Meet Our Attorneys
Good Things Happen When We Go to Court
Proof of Our Success
Read Our Client Testimonials
At L. Patrick Mulligan & Associates, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I had a very difficult case that took longer than usual but they never gave up on it."
Extremely pleased with L. Patrick Mulligan and Associates. They helped me through every step of the process and worked hard for me. I had a very difficult case that took longer than usual but they never gave up on it. Thank you!
- Megan -
"Patrick and his team are the only choice!"My husband was forced to defend himself at our home but that put him in jail. I first went with another lawyer, Mike Mills, who took my money and that was it. Feeling hopeless, I contacted Patrick’s team and they didn’t disappoint. Within 3 hours, Patrick was at jail speaking with my husband and a few days later, Patrick had him home. When you call the office, everyone helps you. You are not just another case to them; I know and experienced it. They are a team you want to be on your family’s side! Thank you Patrick and Laura and team - you are the best, thank you!- Jackson
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"When he walks in, all the fear melts away and he comes out swinging."My family and I have used Patrick for different cases. A child custody as well as DUI. Initially you may feel scared and want to keep calling but in the end he has always proven that he is the best of the best. When he walks in, all the fear melts away and he comes out swinging. He knows what he's doing. Child custody WON! DUI best possible outcome! I wouldn't hire anyone but him. I highly recommend! Thanks Mr. Mulligan and staff!- Satisfied Client
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"You helped me with a life changing situation and I'm a better father and son with your help and support."I want to personally thank you, Patrick and everyone else who did an amazing job on my cases. I've unfortunately dealt with a lot of attorney's over the years and you guys were the first one's I've ever trusted or felt that you really did what you said you were going to do!! Myself and my family couldn't thank you enough. You helped me with a life changing situation and I'm a better father and son with your help and support.- Brian
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"Best Lawyer ever."Patrick Mulligan took on my case in May 1996 not knowing how things would go. My case being his first Big case. He saved my life. I have still to this day will always remember and be Thankful to him for trusting and believing in me. I was a mother of a daughter 19 months old who as killed by my boyfriend at the time. The state tried to prove me for child endangering and wanting me to serve 18 months in prison. Parick didnt know until that point what he had gotten into . Patrick did everything he could to prove I was a good mother. It was almost a year after my daughters life was taken. We went to trail and I stood on the stand with all my friends and Dr.'s. Patrick worked so hard for me and we won and here I am 15 years later . I found his web site and had to tell my story. Anyone who needs his help he will work as hard as he can for anyone he believs in. I'm so gald to see he is still in Cinti helping people. Thank you Patrick. I will talk to you soon.- Stacy
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"I would recommend him to anybody."Patrick Mulligan is one of the few attorney's in Dayton that takes no bullshit I would recommend him to anybody- Justin
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"Help in the Middle of the Night"Mr. Mulligan made all the difference in my case. Through his yellow page ad, I was able to reach him in the middle of the night, after my ex-wife had me falsely arrested for Domestic Violence Verbal. He was prompt in coming to my assistance. He went out of his way to help reach my family so that they could get me released from holding. He answered all my questions and walked me through the entire process. He was able to get the results I was hoping for at the pre-trial, so that we did not actually have to go through an actual trial. Mr. Mulligan exceeded all my expectations and I would recommend him to anyone who finds themselves in a similar unfortunate situation. He was a Godsend for me.- Mark