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Shumate Flaherty Eubanks & Baechtold

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859-353-0878 | 800-494-9916

Carrying On A Century-Old Tradition Of Hard Work And Client Dedication

Photo of Michael Eubanks & James W. Baechtold
Photo of Michael F. Eubanks and James W. Baechtold

Skilled Representation For Drug Offenses

One mistake should not ruin your life!

Have you lost out on opportunities because of your criminal record? If so, we might be able to help you obtain an expungement — even for certain Class D felonies. Contact us to find out about eligibility.

After being arrested for a drug crime, you need to secure representation from a skilled attorney who fully understands the relevant laws, and can advocate for you at every stage of trial, probation and parole processes. Depending upon the narcotic, the quantity and the circumstances surrounding a case, drug offenders can face penalties ranging from small fines to lengthy prison sentences.

The potential for harsh penalties makes having a knowledgeable attorney a necessity. We can fill that need. A skilled lawyer from Shumate, Flaherty, Eubanks & Baechtold can carefully scrutinize details from your arrest to determine if there was any inappropriate police conduct that occurred during or after your arrest. Furthermore, we may be able to help first-time nonviolent offenders obtain a plea bargain for reduced sentencing.

Possession Of Marijuana

Some of the most common drug crimes involve marijuana. Public opinion is rapidly shifting regarding the consumption of marijuana, both for recreational and medicinal uses. Many states have already legislated to decriminalize or legalize marijuana, and others have taken steps to make it accessible to some for medical purposes. Despite this trend, it is important to remember that possession of marijuana still violates federal law.

Despite shifting attitudes, cannabis remains illegal in Kentucky, in virtually every instance, including possession, consumption, cultivation and trafficking. Penalties for these activities range from small fines and fees to lengthy prison sentences.

For example, a first-time offender in Madison County found with less than eight ounces of marijuana can expect to face a maximum of $250 fine or 45 days in jail. Penalties predictably increase if it is a second or subsequent offense, or if a person is caught with larger quantities of marijuana.

The point to underscore is that most cases are far from hopeless and there may be a possibility to work out a deal with the prosecution.

Other Drug Crimes

Other drug crimes such as drug possession and/or drug trafficking generally bring harsher penalties, even for small quantities. There are dozens of illicit Schedule I narcotics that can lead to prison sentences, including:

  • Cocaine
  • Heroin
  • Methamphetamine
  • LSD
  • Ecstasy
  • Prescription drugs

In many cases, our attorneys may be able to obtain a favorable “plea bargain” with the prosecution, especially for first-time nonviolent offenders. This may lead to a charge being diverted or the deferral of prosecution. We fully understand the tactics of the prosecution and will go on the offensive whenever possible to challenge details from your arrest. A single inaccuracy in a police report or a violation of your rights at any point could result in reduced charges or getting the case thrown out altogether.

The aforementioned drugs are more often the subject of federal crimes, which involve large quantities of narcotics. If you face a minimum mandatory sentencing from a federal crime, we can help.

If you face a drug charge in Madison County or surrounding counties, email our drug crimes attorneys at Shumate, Flaherty, Eubanks & Baechtold for assistance today or call 859-353-0878.