Drug Crime Lawyer in Birmingham
Aggressive Legal Help for Clients in Shelby & Jefferson Counties, AL
Drug crime charges affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, from college students to white-collar professionals. These crimes are common in the state. Per the Alabama Daily News, drug crimes comprised 37 percent of all Alabama criminal charges.
These crimes can range from simple possession for one’s own use to serious felonies involving drug sales. Furthermore, they can be charged at the state level and as federal crimes. Federal drug convictions carry significantly more severe repercussions.
If you or someone you love is facing a drug crime charge in or around Birmingham, seeking legal representation is necessary to protect your constitutional rights and best interests. At Elizabeth Hunter, our criminal defense attorney has defended hundreds of individuals accused of various drug crimes, from possession to sales.
Attorney Hunter is licensed to practice in the federal court system. She can apply her federal defense experience, skills, and resources to your case when under investigation or formally charged with drug crimes.
Accused of a crime involving unlawful drugs? Call (205) 900-3815 or reach Elizabeth Hunter online for a free initial consultation.
Alabama Drug Crime Laws
Alabama drug crimes are governed by stringent laws under the Alabama Code, Title 13A. These laws cover a comprehensive range of offenses, from possession and distribution to manufacturing and trafficking. These crimes include unlawful street drugs as well as unauthorized prescription medicines, such as Adderall, Xanax, OxyContin, and Vicodin.
The state uses a classification system known as "drug schedules" to organize controlled substances based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Offenses are prosecuted based on the type and quantity of the drug involved, as well as the specific nature of the drug-related activity.
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AGGRESSIVE STRATEGY. INTENTIONAL CARE.
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Compassion Backed by Action
In order to better understand your unique situation and to craft your aggressive strategy, we listen first; then act.
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Proven Track Record
With years of experience serving clients across a wide range of practice areas, Attorney Hunter boasts a long history of excellence.
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We know that the legal process can be intimidating; we prioritize being available when you need us and keep you updated at every step.
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Empathetic Approach
Most attorneys can understand different perspectives, but we truly empathize with you and care about the person behind the case.
Drug Schedules & Their Impact on Charges
The drug schedules in Alabama categorize controlled substances into five distinctive classes:
- Schedule I: Substances with no accepted medical use and high potential for abuse (e.g., heroin, LSD).
- Schedule II: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, with some accepted medical uses (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone).
- Schedule III: Drugs with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence (e.g., anabolic steroids, ketamine).
- Schedule IV: Substances with a low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III drugs (e.g., diazepam, tramadol).
- Schedule V: Drugs with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV substances, often used for medical purposes (e.g., cough preparations containing low amounts of codeine).
Higher-schedule drugs carry more severe charges and penalties due to their increased potential for abuse and limited medical usage.
Marijuana Drug Crimes in Alabama
In our state, anyone found with any amount of marijuana can be charged with a misdemeanor drug crime. This charge can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000. Any amount other than for personal use may be charged as a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000 with a minimum mandatory sentence and fine.