Drug Crime Defense From A Knowledgeable Attorney In Grand Rapids

In recent years, authorities in Michigan have stepped up enforcement for possession or production of controlled substances. If the state charges you with any of these drug crimes, you need the help of an experienced attorney right away to avoid jail or prison time.

I am attorney James K. Champion, the founder of the Law Office of James K. Champion, PLLC, in Grand Rapids. No matter what drug charges you are facing, I can help you protect your freedoms.

Your Advocate In Even The Most Complex Drug Crime Cases

You need a drug crime attorney you can rely on. However difficult your legal battle feels, I can help. My focus is defending clients who face serious drug charges, such as:

• Federal drug crimes: Cases prosecuted in federal courts with tougher penalties, such as interstate trafficking
• Drug manufacturing: Production of controlled substances in labs or facilities, including processing and packaging operations
• Drug trafficking: Moving or selling large quantities of drugs across borders, often involving distribution networks
• Prescription medication offenses: Unlawful distribution or possession of controlled pharmaceuticals without a valid prescription
• Conspiracy charges: Working with others to commit drug-related crimes, even without direct possession
• Possession of analogues or “designer drugs”: Cases involving synthetic substances that mimic illegal drugs, such as synthetic cannabinoids or bath salts

Results for my clients include not guilty verdicts by jury trial on various drug charges. I have been featured on CBS 48 Hours, NBC Dateline, Good Morning America, Nancy Grace, Dateline Crime, In Session, & Court TV. No matter what drug charges you are facing, I can help protect your freedoms.

Questions About Drug Charges In Michigan? I Can Answer Them.

The public’s attitude regarding drug activity is changing rapidly, but the state of Michigan still punishes drug crimes very harshly. If you are facing drug-related criminal charges, you probably have many questions about our state’s legal system. Here, I will answer some of the questions I hear most frequently.

Are the police allowed to search my property for drugs?

The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. Police officers must have a warrant to search your house, dorm, car, backpack or any other property you own.

But there are some exceptions to this rule. If they have probable cause to believe that any drug-related criminal activity is taking place or if they see contraband in plain sight, they may search and confiscate your property.

What should I do if the police want to interview me?

Do not speak with the police, even if you know you are not guilty. The police know how to get the answers that they want out of you, even if you have not done anything wrong. Before you talk to a police officer, contact a drug crimes lawyer. If the police detain you, tell them that you wish to remain silent until you have an attorney present.

Do first-time drug offenders go to jail in Michigan?

Although jail time is part of the possible penalties for any drug crime, first-time offenders may have the option to go through alternative drug sentencing, also known as drug court. The legal system is finally starting to reflect the reality that traditional sentencing does not help people struggling with substance abuse issues.

Alternative options can include probation and rehab, and, if you successfully complete the program, you may be able to avoid a criminal record.

How long do you go to jail for drug charges in Michigan?

There are many different drug offenses at the state level, and they all come with a range of penalties under Michigan sentencing guidelines. Minor possession charges may result in less than a year in jail, while trafficking can result in up to life in prison, depending on the situation.

If you are facing federal drug charges, the penalties could be harsher and include a longer sentence. I will discuss the specific penalties related to your charges when you meet with me.

Is selling drugs a felony in Michigan?

The illegal sale of controlled substances is a felony in Michigan. State law categorizes drug crimes based on the type and quantity of substance involved, with penalties ranging from years to decades in prison. Even prescription medications sold without proper authorization are felony offenses.

How much coke is a felony in Michigan?

Cocaine is a Schedule II drug. At the state level, the use of cocaine is a misdemeanor, but possession of any amount will result in a felony charge. Anything less than 50 grams can result in up to four years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

Penalties go up from there, topping out at life in prison and/or up to $1 million in fines for over 1,000 grams. Intent to sell charges carry up to 20 years for less than 50 grams.

As an experienced federal defense attorney, I can represent you against federal charges of drug activity. You can feel confident knowing that I will use my years of experience to vigorously protect your rights in and out of the courtroom.

Now that marijuana is legal in Michigan, what happens to my marijuana-related criminal charge?

Citizens recently voted to legalize recreational marijuana in our state. But if you were charged with a crime pertaining to marijuana possession, manufacture or sale, you may still be on the hook. Although the governor has promised to expunge marijuana-related convictions, this may take months. Charges pertaining to marijuana may eventually be dismissed or expunged, but the future remains unclear. When you schedule a consultation to discuss your case, I can provide a better idea of what to expect for your future.

Is it now legal to purchase and sell marijuana for recreational use?

Even though recreational marijuana is nominally legal, there is still a long way to go before you can buy, sell, manufacture and transport it without the fear of criminal penalties. State legislators are still hammering out the details of our new marijuana laws. Until the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs starts to license businesses for the sale of marijuana, retail sales of the substance are not legal.

For now, you are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of weed and carry it with you. In your home, you can keep up to 12 cannabis plants and up to 10 ounces of marijuana. You can use weed on private property but not on any public property.

Before You Talk To The Police, Talk To A Lawyer

If the police arrest you for a drug charge, you may feel tempted to explain your side of the story. However, you should talk to a lawyer before you talk to the police. Many innocent people accidentally incriminate themselves when talking to the police.

You should also not allow law enforcement to search your home, your car or your personal belongings. Do not consent to a search until you have talked to an attorney or the police have obtained a warrant.

Free Consultations: Get The Legal Protector You Need Today

When my clients come to me, they are looking for someone who is willing to fight for them. I do just that and do not cave to pressure from the prosecutor to make a deal. I fight hard for my clients, whether in a plea for negotiations or at trial.

The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better off you’ll be. At the Law Office of James K. Champion, PLLC, I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. Call me at 888-723-0075, or fill out the contact form on this website to get started.