Drug Possession Attorney
in Kansas City, Missouri

If you have been accused of or arrested under a drug possession charge in Kansas or Missouri, it is essential to take steps immediately to protect your future. Knowing what to do after an arrest could make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Far too many individuals do not understand that accused criminals have rights that must be protected for the duration of the case.

Depending on the specifics of the charges, a drug possession conviction could cause problems for an accused individual well into the future, especially as it relates to federal student aid for education, employment prospects, and other situations where the outcome of a background check can be influential.

Drug Possession Laws in Missouri

Drug possession in any state is a serious criminal charge that can have many negative outcomes if not handled appropriately. The majority of penalties in Missouri for drug possession are classified as class C felonies with a maximum of up to 7 years in jail and a $5000 fine.

Marijuana possession in Missouri, however, is classified as a misdemeanor so long as it is less than 35 grams. This is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $1000. Individuals may also face penalties for possessing paraphernalia associated with drugs.

Drug Possession Laws in Kansas

The penalties faced by an individual arrested for a drug possession charge in Kansas will depend on any past criminal record rather than the amount of drugs involved. For a first offense, an individual will face misdemeanor charges with a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2500. If this is a second or subsequent offense, however, the charged individual will be facing a felony. A felony charge can carry prison time for anywhere from 10 months to three and a half years and fines of up to $100,000. 

Typically possessing heroin, methamphetamines, or cocaine will lead to a punishment of several years behind bars whether or not this is your first offense. The state is responsible for proving beyond a reasonable doubt that what was found in your possession was an illegal substance and that it belonged to you. Regardless of the allegations, all individuals charged have a right against unreasonable search and seizure. There are many other rights and protections under Missouri law or Kansas law and the U.S. Constitution. Those accused of possessing paraphernalia may also face legal consequences.

Drug Possession Defense Attorney in Missouri and Kansas

Many individuals accused of a crime are not aware of the full range of their rights and may make mistakes that can compromise their future. This is why it is strongly recommended that any accused individual in Kansas or Missouri consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney like Greg Abella right away. Greg’s primary goal is to get up to speed on the specifics of your case immediately so that proper defense action can be taken. As an accused individual, you will know where your case stands as it makes its way through the legal system. Being accused of a crime is unnerving enough- make sure you hire the right Missouri or Kansas criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and future.