Charlotte Drug Crime Attorney
Fighting for Clients across Mecklenburg County in Drug Cases
Drug charges have the potential to negatively impact your life currently, as well as in the future. From the immediate consequences of fines and jail time to the long-term complications of a criminal record, a drug charge conviction could impact you for the rest of your life.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a drug crime, it is crucial to speak to a Charlotte drug crime attorney who can explain your rights. At Jetton & Meredith, we represent clients across North Carolina, advocating for their rights. We focus on educating our clients and fight aggressively to achieve the best possible outcome in every case.*
To learn more about how we can help you mitigate the damage from misdemeanor or felony drug charges, call our knowledgeable drug crime lawyers in Charlotte today at (704) 931-5535.
Types of Drug Cases We Handle in NC
We handle a wide array of drug crimes, from minor infractions to very serious cases. We understand that even misdemeanor charges can result in significant criminal penalties and other consequences.
We can handle your defense against a variety of drug charges, including:
- Selling of drugs
- Drug trafficking
- Drug possession
- Prescription drug offenses
- Drug paraphernalia
- Unauthorized distribution of a controlled substance
These charges can involve a variety of banned controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, ecstasy, prescription narcotics, Oxycodone, and OxyContin.
North Carolina Marijuana Laws
state lawmakers have decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana to a less-severe crime compared to other illicit. If a person is caught possessing at least 1.5 ounces of pot, then it will be considered a felony offense.
The following are penalties associated with possession of marijuana for personal use, based on weight:
- Half an ounce or less - Possession of any amount within this range is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor, which carries a fine of up to $200.
- Between over .05 and 1.5 ounces - Possession of any amount within this range is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by a jail sentence of up to 45 days and a maximum $1,000 fine.
- Between over 1.5 ounces and 10 pounds - Possession of any amount within this range is a Class I felony that results in a prison term of up to eight months.
Keep in mind, if you are found in possession of more than 1.5 ounces, you could be charged with possession with intent to sell. For example, if the police find a scale, small baggies, and a large sum of cash along with the cannabis, officers may believe you were planning on selling marijuana based on the items found on your person. Possession with intent to sell less than 10 pounds of cannabis is a Class I felony.
Possible Legal Defenses for Your Drug Charges in NC
The levels of criminal charges associated with banned substances are classified differently from one drug to another. In any drug crime case, we listen carefully to our client’s version of how they came in contact with police and how police collected evidence. Our drug crime attorney in Charlotte looks carefully at how law enforcement agents obtained the alleged evidence and if the substances involved are, in fact, what police claim they are. Very often, we find out during our thorough investigation that there is something fundamentally wrong with the criminal charges.*
We may discover any of the following, and more:
- Police violated our clients’ rights to freedom from unreasonable search and seizure
- Substances put forth as evidence are not what they are alleged to be
- At the time of arrest, clients were not informed of their Miranda rights, such as their right to speak with an attorney
- Other constitutional rights of our clients were violated in connection with the collection of evidence or an arrest
Understanding Drug Crime Penalties in North Carolina
It's important to understand the potential penalties associated with drug crimes in North Carolina. Depending on the type and amount of drug involved, as well as any prior criminal history, individuals convicted of drug offenses can face severe consequences, including fines, probation, and even imprisonment. Our experienced Charlotte drug crime lawyers can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate the complexities of the North Carolina legal system.
Penalties for drug crimes in North Carolina may include:
- Heavy fines
- Probation
- Imprisonment
- Driver's license suspension
- Community service
Don't wait to seek legal assistance if you've been charged with a drug crime. Contact our Charlotte law firm today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
Arrested on a Drug Charge? The Time to Act Is Now.
Our Charlotte drug crime attorney has the skills, experience, and resources to aggressively pursue a favorable outcome in your case, which could be anything from a dismissal of the charges to a diversionary outcome such as drug abuse treatment in lieu of a criminal conviction.
Our firm offers consultations on evenings and weekends in our office or even at the jail. Contact us anytime at (704) 931-5535 to discuss your legal defense options with a Charlotte drug crime attorney.
Client Testimonials*
The Opinions that Matter Most
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Prompt, thorough, understanding and knowledgeable, are only a few of the adjectives that describe Jetton & Meredith. Fabulous lawyers, highly recommend for any family law cases!!- Former Client
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Eric Meredith represented me during what turned out to be a lengthy divorce settlement. During the first meeting, he fully explained the process ahead and answered all my questions and concerns. I still remember the feeling of relief after that meeting knowing I had a true professional in my corner. Eric, along with his Paralegal Julie, kept me updated along the way and were quick to respond with any additional issues. Not only did he call with any updates to the case, he also would ask how I was doing. I cannot recommend Eric at Jetton & Meredith enough.- Tim
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I highly recommend Mark. I hired him to handle a simple assault charge that was filed against me. Mark handled it professionally and expeditiously. He explained each step in the process, and everything happened just as he described. He is exactly the type of lawyer you want representing you.- J&M Client
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Great service and very personal. Jetton & Meredith are very hardworking attorneys. I will recommend Jetton & Meredith to anyone in need.- Former Client
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I cannot stress enough how great the customer service was with Jetton & Meredith, with my case being a little more complicated I had the opportunity to work with both Mr. Jetton and Mr. Meredith. I can say they know their stuff, Mr. Jetton was able to get my case dismissed the first time we went to court, no questions asked. Working with Mr. Meredith was a longer process but he walked me through the steps and gave me realistic expectations of an outcome that he was able to provide just as he stated he would do. I couldn’t be more pleased with my decision to hire Jetton & Meredith as my attorneys, and I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney!- Former Client
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This law office far exceeded my expectations. All options and possible outcomes were set before me from the start and everything was handled in a professional and timely manner. Not only will I use this law firm again, but I would also and have already recommended them to the people I care most for. Thank you for all you’ve done.- Former Client