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If you’ve been arrested for a drug crime and subsequently released on bail, the past few days must feel like a whirlwind. You’re likely exhausted and wondering what happens next. In this article, we discuss what you can expect following an arrest for a drug crime. While not a comprehensive overview of a criminal case, this article is meant to inform you of the options available to you. For assistance navigating this complicated process, contact a drug crimes attorney in Clearwater from The Law Offices of Marc N. Pelletier.
Depending on the specifics of your case, you may have to attend an arraignment where you will be read your rights and informed of the charges against you. During an arraignment, you will be given the option to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Although this choice may seem obvious to you, it’s vital that you work with a drug crimes defense attorney in Clearwater to determine the best course of action. Pleading guilty may result in a defendant being sentenced at their arraignment.
As a resident of Pinellas County, you may be entitled to a Pre-Trial Intervention program where you will have the option of entering Drug Court. “Successful completion of the 18- to 24-month Adult Drug Treatment Court plan may result in the dismissal of charges against defendants entering the program through Pre-Trial Intervention (defendants facing a first-time, non-violent, third-degree felony charge and admitted to Drug Court at the discretion of the State Attorney).” You can be sure that an attorney with The Law Offices of Marc N. Pelletier will work diligently to ensure that you enter a Pre-Trial Intervention Program if eligible.
If you take away anything from this article, it should be that you will always have options available to you, which include having your charges reduced or dropped before trial. An experienced drug crimes defense attorney in Clearwater can file a Motion to Suppress in the event that proper police procedure wasn’t followed. Alternatively, your attorney may work on a plea deal with the prosecution. For non-violent offenses, defendants often have the option to enter a drug treatment program in lieu of punishment.
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Although a trial is an opportunity to present your case to a jury of your peers, it is best to work with a drug crimes attorney in Clearwater to resolve your case before it reaches trial. Depending on the severity of your case, you may be sentenced by the judge if found guilty. Your trial may very well be favorable, but that largely depends on the circumstances of your case. For an attorney who can provide guidance and sound legal advice during this difficult time, consult an experienced attorney from The Law Offices of Marc N. Pelletier.
For a free consultation with a drug crimes defense attorney in Clearwater, please contact The Law Offices of Marc N. Pelletier today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
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