Aggressive Defense for Drug Crime Charges in Manchester, NH

Drug crimes are taken very seriously in New Hampshire. If you are convicted of a drug crime, you could face severe penalties, including jail or prison time, fines, probation, and more. Additionally, a drug crime conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and even obtain certain professional licenses. If you have been charged with a drug crime, it is crucial that you reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., we have been serving the legal needs of clients throughout New Hampshire for more than 40 years. Our team of highly skilled attorneys has a proven track record of success; we have handled thousands of cases and have secured numerous favorable results for our clients. We understand the complexities of drug crime cases and can help you navigate the legal process from start to finish. Our Manchester drug crime lawyers are prepared to aggressively advocate for you and your rights.

Call our office at (603) 635-4099 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation with one of our drug crime attorneys in Manchester today.

Types of Drug Crimes in New Hampshire

There are many different types of drug crimes in New Hampshire, ranging from simple possession to drug trafficking. The specific charges you face will depend on the type and amount of drugs involved, as well as other factors, such as whether you were in possession of drug paraphernalia or if you were caught selling drugs near a school.

Some of the most common types of drug crimes in New Hampshire include:

• Drug Possession: Drug possession is the simplest drug crime, involving the unlawful possession of controlled substances for personal use. It can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the type and quantity of the drug and the jurisdiction’s laws.
• Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute: This crime occurs when a person is found with controlled substances, and there is evidence suggesting an intention to sell, distribute, or deliver them to others. Penalties are typically more severe than simple possession.
• Drug Distribution: Drug distribution involves the sale or transfer of controlled substances to others. The scale and organization of the operation can vary widely, from small-scale street dealing to large drug trafficking networks.
• Drug Trafficking: Drug trafficking is a more serious offense, often involving the distribution of large quantities of drugs across multiple jurisdictions. It can lead to severe penalties and federal charges in some cases.
• Drug Manufacturing/Cultivation: This crime involves the illegal production or cultivation of controlled substances, such as methamphetamine, marijuana, or synthetic drugs. Manufacturing may involve chemical processes, while cultivation pertains to growing plants like cannabis.
• Operating a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Drugs: Similar to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs is a crime in which a person drives a vehicle while impaired by the effects of controlled substances. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia: This crime relates to the possession, sale, or use of items that are intended for drug-related activities, such as pipes, syringes, scales, and other equipment used for drug consumption, manufacturing, or distribution.
• Prescription Drug Fraud: This type of drug crime involves obtaining or distributing prescription medications without a valid prescription. It can also include altering prescriptions, “doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions, or selling prescription drugs to others.
• Drug-Related Offenses: Some drug crimes are not directly related to the drugs themselves but are associated with illegal activities that support drug use or distribution, such as money laundering, conspiracy, and racketeering.

Drug crimes can be charged as either state or federal offenses. Federal drug crimes are typically more serious and carry harsher penalties than state drug crimes. Additionally, federal drug crimes are investigated by federal agencies, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and are prosecuted by federal prosecutors. If you are facing federal drug charges, it is crucial that you reach out to an experienced Manchester drug crime lawyer right away.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in New Hampshire

The penalties for drug crimes in New Hampshire vary depending on the specific charges, as well as other factors, such as the type and amount of drugs involved, whether you have any prior drug crime convictions, and more. In general, however, drug crimes are taken very seriously in New Hampshire and can result in severe penalties.

Some of the most common penalties for drug crimes in New Hampshire include:

• Prison or jail time
• Steep fines
• Probation
• Parole
• Community service
• Drug counseling or rehabilitation
• Loss of certain civil rights
• Loss of professional licenses
• Loss of child custody/visitation rights
• Permanent criminal record

How Our Manchester Drug Crime Attorneys Can Help

Being charged with a drug crime can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. You may be unsure of what to do next or how to protect your rights. At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., we understand what you are going through, and we are here to help. Our Manchester drug crime lawyers can guide you through the legal process and help you make well-informed decisions every step of the way. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy for you and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Our drug crime defense team in Manchester can help you with the following, and more:

• Conduct a thorough investigation into your charges
• Review all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and more
• Consult with experts, such as forensic analysts, to challenge the prosecution’s evidence
• File any necessary pre-trial motions, such as motions to suppress evidence
• Negotiate with the prosecution for a favorable plea deal, if appropriate
• Represent you at all court hearings and proceedings
• Advocate for you during trial, if necessary
• Handle all necessary paperwork and ensure that all deadlines are met
• Answer your questions and address your concerns in a timely manner

 The sooner you get our team involved, the sooner we can get to work on your defense. We will review your case, explain your rights and options, and help you make well-informed decisions every step of the way.