Drug Possession Charges And Addiction: This Isn't The End Of The Road
More than 50 million people have used prescription medication for a non-medical reason at least once in their life. This epidemic has significantly expanded over the years, causing somewhat of a strain on the legal system. The response has been harsher penalties for people who aren't just selling drugs, but are also in possession of them due to an addiction problem. Unfortunately, regardless of the intent of use for the drug, these types of charges come with the potential for harsh punishment.
What Constitutes Possession?
In simple terms, any time you are in possession of a prescribed medication that you do not personally have a prescription for, you can be charged with possession. Many people are shocked to discover that there is no minimum amount of drugs you must be in possession of to be charged. If you have been caught with even a single pill, you face the same judgement as someone who has been caught with more pills. In the eyes of the law, any person in possession of a high-level prescription not intended for them is violating the law.
What's At Stake?
If you are arrested and convicted of having a medication that is not your own, costly fines are just the start. A conviction of this magnitude also comes with jail time. However, more importantly, this type of charge can affect your entire life. Drug charges at any level can prevent you from securing certain types of financial aid for higher education and can even prevent you from securing certain types of employment.
When Addiction Is The Problem
Every person who is in possession of a controlled substance isn't a hardened criminal or drug dealer. For a number of people, they are dealing with a serious addiction and in need of help. They don't just need to be tossed in jail. If you're in this boat, this is where an attorney becomes critically important.
In this case, an attorney won't try to argue that you didn't commit the crime, but instead argue the fact that you need help for your addiction. Instead of a conviction, an attorney can help move toward a more positive outcome. An attorney can help ensure you receive the treatment you need to move forward with your life, positively, instead of just ending up behind bars and not having your real need met.
If you're dealing with addiction and have also been charged with possession, you haven't reached the end of your road. Let an attorney help you move past this situation and move forward with your life. Contact a professional such as Alejandro Rivera PA - A Law Firm to learn more.