Manassas Drug Distribution Lawyer
What Is Possession with Intent To Distribute in Virginia?
You can face misdemeanor or felony drug charges in Virginia for simply having a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia in your possession. These possession charges can be “enhanced” to possession with intent to distribute, or PWID, if the prosecutor believes that there is sufficient evidence to support that you aimed to sell, give, or otherwise distribute the drug to someone else.
The following elements can contribute to a “possession with intent to distribute” enhancement:
- Large quantities of drugs
- Large amounts of cash
- Testimony of the law enforcement officer that made the arrest
- Packaging implying sale or distribution
- Paraphernalia associated with distribution, including scales, baggies, and other measuring instruments
- Absence of paraphernalia that would facilitate personal use
PWID offenses can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the schedule of the drugs involved. PWIDs with Schedule I or II substances will lead to felony charges. A conviction for a first offense carries a prison sentence of 5 to 40 years and a maximum fine of $500,000. A second offense can lead to life in prison.
PWID offenses involving certain other substances will typically result in misdemeanor charges. This is still an extremely serious offense that can lead to a year of jail time and up to $2,500 in fines.
We have an extensive understanding of how PWID cases must be proved. Our team can work to get PWID charges reduced to simple possession or dismissed entirely.
If you have been charged with felony drug distribution or possession with intent to distribute, call (703) 215-9337 or contact us online to get the legal support that you deserve.
What Constitutes Felony Drug Distribution in Virginia?
Nearly all drug distribution offenses will be charged as felonies in Virginia. Distribution is defined as manufacturing, selling, providing, giving away, or otherwise distributing a controlled substance.
Potential consequences depend on the scale and severity of the offense. Many felony charges for a sale instance of distribution can result in up to 5 years in prison and $2,500 in fines. First offenses for distributing Schedule I or Schedule II drugs can lead to up to 40 years of jail time and fines of up to $500,000. Second offenses can lead to life imprisonment, and third offenses carry minimum 10-year sentencing requirements.
Individuals involved with manufacturing and distribution operations can face even greater penalties. Depending on the quantity and types of substances involved, a conviction can result in a mandatory 20-year prison sentence or even life imprisonment. These offenses also carry fines as high as $1 million.
If you are facing any type of felony charge, our Virginia drug distribution attorneys at Dischley Law, PLLC are prepared to help. We are familiar with legal mechanisms that can be leveraged to reduce sentencing requirements, including potentially eliminating 20-year mandatory sentences for serious distribution operation cases. No matter the circumstances surrounding your case, we are empathetic to your situation and will do everything possible to protect your future.
Protecting Your Future Through Vigorous Defense
Drug distribution charges can quickly upend your life. Possession with intent to distribute can lead to multiple years in jail, while felony drug distribution charges can lead to 20-year sentencing minimums or even life imprisonment. Distribution cases have historically been aggressively prosecuted, and you will likely need qualified legal representation to overcome these serious charges.
Our Manassas drug distribution lawyers at Dischley Law, PLLC have over 25 years of experience and are prepared to do whatever it takes to defend you. We are compassionate to the stress and uncertainty that inevitably results when facing these charges and are committed to guiding you through this difficult moment. Our team will work with you to set practical goals and will then develop a strategy conducive to achieving them.
Schedule a free initial consultation to explore your defense options with us. Call (703) 215-9337 or contact us online to get started.
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Their exceptional assistance and guidance made the process stress-free- Ben
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I chose Dischley Law in part because they are a Veteran-owned firm, but also because of their competitive fees and the compassion they demonstrated as I described my case during the consultation- C.G.
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After receiving a Reckless Driving summons in Fairfax, VA, I contacted a number of lawyers. I found my conversation with Dischley Law to be the most helpful and comforting.- R.M.
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You will not find a more caring and proactive attorney in your search for effective representation. David gets right to the heart of the case, finds the defenses, and presents them at the right time.- J.M.
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