Being charged with a drug crime is serious. If you’ve been charged, it’s recommended to talk to a Louisiana drug crime lawyer right away, so you can begin building your defense. Even so, it’s wise to know a bit about the state’s drug crime laws yourself.
The drug-related crime rate in Louisiana is 5.221 per 1,000 residents. Of all the criminal sentences recorded in Louisiana in 2023, drug crimes were behind 32.7 percent of cases. By understanding more about Louisiana drug laws and penalties, you can protect yourself and be better prepared if you find yourself navigating a drug crime case.
Louisiana Drug Laws and Penalties
Louisiana drug crime laws cover a variety of criminal offenses involving drugs. Your charges and the sentence they carry depend on the severity and complexity of your case. More specifically, it depends on what drug is involved, what your intention with the drugs is, and how much is found on you. Some of the most common drug crimes include:
- Drug possession: Simple possession is generally the least serious drug charge you can receive. That said, it can still carry hefty penalties as a misdemeanor. Moreover, you can still be charged with a felony for possession depending on the substance.
- Drug distribution: This could get especially tricky if the drugs crossed state lines, because it most likely becomes a federal issue at that point.
- Drug manufacturing or cultivation: You can expect to be charged with a felony for cultivating or manufacturing controlled substances in Louisiana. This charge is closely related to trafficking charges, which can be even more serious. It’s important to create a strong defense that helps you secure the lowest possible sentence.
- Drug trafficking: These types of drug cases are often escalated to the federal level because they typically involve exorbitant amounts of drugs, and the criminal activity crosses state lines. Trafficking is a serious felony offense and can automatically trigger additional charges. It’s wise to have an experienced attorney on your side to help with your defense.
- Paraphernalia charges: Even having equipment, products, or materials associated with an illegal substance can get you in trouble with the law. This includes anything used or designed for any step of the cultivation or manufacturing process of controlled substances.
- Prescription drug offenses: You can be charged with a drug crime for having prescription medications under certain circumstances. Typically, this happens when someone is in possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription. The intent to distribute is another big charge related to these substances.
Drug crime cases in Louisiana can be complex, whether they’re tried at the state level or are escalated to the federal level. If you’re facing charges, it’s imperative to understand the drug crime laws you’re up against, and to know how to create a strong defense based on the details of your case. A Louisiana drug crimes attorney can help you in various ways. In addition to providing honest legal counsel, you can count on your legal team to fight for you in court and give you the chance you deserve at a fair outcome.
FAQs
Can I Go to Jail for a First-Time Drug Offense in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, it is possible to go to jail for your first drug offense. Drug crimes are prosecuted harshly both at the state and federal levels, even for a first-time offense. The penalties aim to prevent future drug crimes, which is why they’re so harsh. First-time offenders can face significant sentences depending on the drug type, amount, and intended use. A Louisiana drug crime attorney can help you work toward a lesser sentence and potentially avoid jail time.
What Is the Charge You Get When You’re Caught With Drugs in Louisiana?
Your exact charges for a drug crime are going to depend on the details of your case, including the types and number of drugs involved and the intended use for them. The three main drug charges are possession, distribution, and trafficking. Possession is typically the least serious drug charge you can receive. Even so, these lesser charges can have a lasting impact on the offender’s life. You can be charged with a drug crime at the state or federal level.
Do I Have to Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer to Represent Me in Louisiana?
You do not have to hire a drug crime lawyer if you’re facing charges in Louisiana, but it’s advised that you do. A drug crime attorney can help you understand the nuances of your case and ensure your rights are protected. Moreover, they can launch their own investigations into the case and the prosecution, and they can provide aggressive support through every stage of the legal process.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer in Louisiana?
The cost of hiring a drug crime lawyer in Louisiana is going to vary from firm to firm and from case to case. The severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and whether it’s handled in state or federal court can impact the total cost. Working with a drug crime attorney isn’t free, but it’s highly recommended that you take advantage of the extra-legal support. You can connect with us before deciding to learn more.
Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in More Detail
Being charged with a drug crime can have a serious impact on your life, let alone being convicted. If you’re facing a drug charge in Louisiana, it’s critical to understand your rights and legal options when it comes to defending yourself and seeking a fair outcome. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone.
LaCour Law Firm has been a trusted criminal defense law firm serving Louisiana since 2010, and we strive to serve countless generations to come. With 15 years of experience and counting, we’re confident in navigating complex drug crime cases. In fact, major felony crimes are where we thrive. Our team is not afraid to go to trial, and we take pride in providing the aggressive representation that our clients deserve.
When you choose LaCour Law Firm, you’re choosing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who is dedicated to fighting for you. Contact our team to set up a consultation with a team member to learn more about how we can help you through your case.
