Being charged with a crime like possession of heroin has the potential to dramatically change your life, both short term and long term. This is because the repercussions are much more than just jail time and fines, you could be labeled as a felon if convicted, and forced to carry that record indefinitely. When you are up against charges like this, you need someone on your side working on your behalf to minimize the effects of these charges on your future.
Heroin is a highly addictive and dangerous drug. As a matter of fact, it is classified as a Schedule I drug, the most dangerous and addictive there is. Because of this, the laws surrounding possession of heroin are strict and carry tough penalties.
You don’t have to have the drugs in your pocket to be accused and found guilty of heroin possession. Instead, the drugs merely have to be under your control. This means if they are found on your property, you can be charged. Similarly, if they are within your reach in a public place, you can be charged. Possession laws aren’t as cut and dry as many people think, and this is only one of the reasons that having a criminal defense attorney on your side can help.
North Carolina Heroin Possession – Laws & Penalties
Possession of heroin is classified as a Class I Felony charge. It carries from 3 to 8 months in prison, along with fines and the consequences associated with having a criminal record.
Though it is rare for a judge to sentence someone to the maximum penalty, it does happen. The vast majority of these cases, however, are resolved in a plea agreement. This means that you agree to plead guilty in exchange for a lenient sentence. In this way, defendants can often avoid jail time altogether.
Defense Strategies and Plea Alternatives
NC Drug Courts
Depending on the jurisdiction in which you are charged, your case could be eligible for a drug court program. Unlike traditional criminal courts, drug courts focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. You answer to the judge at frequent check-ins and are subject to rules and conditions much like probation.
With drug court programs, you are typically required to attend treatment and counseling.
It is possible to beat a heroin possession charge.
When you work with a local defense attorney to mitigate the effects of this charge on your life, you will find that it is possible to walk away from such a charge with minimal damage done. Though all cases are different, we may be able to help you.
Contact our attorneys today to discuss the details of your case.