If you’re facing felony drug possession charges in Ohio, it’s completely normal to feel confused, worried, and overwhelmed. The charges you’re dealing with carry serious consequences, and you may be unsure of what steps to take next. At our firm, we understand the stress you are going through, and we are here to guide you through the entire legal process. Our goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. In this blog, we will explain what you can expect when dealing with felony drug possession charges in Ohio.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
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Learn more about our teamUnderstanding Felony Drug Possession Charges in Ohio
Felony drug possession is a serious offense in Ohio. If you are caught in possession of a controlled substance, the consequences can vary depending on the type and amount of drugs involved. Ohio law classifies drugs into different categories based on their potential for abuse, with penalties ranging from fines to long prison sentences.
When you’re facing felony drug possession charges, you may be feeling a sense of uncertainty about the entire legal process. You might be asking yourself: What will happen next? How long will this take? Will I go to prison? These are all valid concerns, and it’s important to understand that the legal process can be complex. However, the good news is that with the right legal representation, there is hope for a positive outcome.
The Legal Process After an Arrest for Felony Drug Possession
After you’re arrested for felony drug possession in Ohio, the first step is the arraignment. During this initial hearing, you will be formally charged, and the court will set bail. In most cases, you will have the opportunity to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. At this stage, it’s important to have a skilled attorney by your side who can advise you on the best course of action based on the details of your case.
If you plead not guilty, the case will move forward to pretrial motions and hearings. Your lawyer will have the opportunity to review the evidence against you, file motions to suppress evidence if applicable, and negotiate with the prosecution. This stage may take some time, and your attorney will be working diligently to build a strong defense for you.
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Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
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Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Possible Defenses Against Felony Drug Possession Charges
When facing felony drug possession charges, there are several defenses that your attorney may consider in your case. One common defense is that the drugs were not actually in your possession. If the drugs were found in a car or in an area where multiple people had access, it may be difficult for the prosecution to prove that you were the one possessing them.
Another potential defense is that the search and seizure of the drugs were illegal. If law enforcement did not have a valid search warrant or probable cause to search your property or vehicle, any evidence obtained during that search could be inadmissible in court. Your attorney will carefully review the circumstances surrounding your arrest and determine if any constitutional rights were violated during the investigation.
The Consequences of a Felony Drug Possession Conviction
If you are convicted of felony drug possession in Ohio, the consequences can be severe. Depending on the type and amount of drugs you were caught with, you could face years in prison, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. A conviction can also impact your ability to find employment, obtain housing, or pursue certain career opportunities.
However, the penalties are not set in stone. In some cases, you may be eligible for diversion programs or treatment options that can reduce your sentence or allow for a more lenient punishment. Additionally, if this is your first offense, the court may be more lenient in sentencing, especially if you have no prior criminal history.
How a Skilled Attorney Can Help
The key to achieving the best possible outcome in your felony drug possession case is having a skilled attorney who understands the nuances of Ohio drug laws. A good attorney will review the evidence, build a strong defense, and work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
At our firm, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation. We understand that facing felony charges can be daunting, but you don’t have to go through this alone. We will guide you step-by-step, keeping you informed about your case and helping you make the best decisions for your future.
What Happens During Trial
If your case goes to trial, the process will become more formal. During the trial, both the prosecution and defense will present their arguments and evidence before a judge or jury. Your attorney will have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses, challenge the evidence, and present your side of the story.
If the jury finds you not guilty, you will be acquitted of all charges and released from legal responsibility. If you are found guilty, your attorney will work with you to seek the most favorable sentencing options. In some cases, your attorney may also help you explore the possibility of appealing the verdict if there were legal errors during the trial.
Sentencing and Alternatives to Prison
If you are convicted of felony drug possession, you may face a lengthy prison sentence. However, there are alternatives to prison that your attorney may explore, depending on the circumstances of your case. For example, you may be eligible for probation, a treatment program, or house arrest instead of serving time behind bars.
Ohio offers several diversion programs designed to help individuals struggling with drug addiction. If you meet certain criteria, you may be able to participate in one of these programs in lieu of serving time in prison. These programs often involve drug treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation to address the root causes of drug abuse, which can help you avoid future legal issues.
If you have been charged with felony drug possession in Ohio, it’s important to take immediate action. The sooner you contact a skilled attorney, the better your chances of a successful outcome. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the charges, explain your legal options, and build a strong defense tailored to your situation.
At Sabol & Mallory Law Firm, we understand how stressful it can be to face felony drug possession charges. Our compassionate team is here to support you through every step of the legal process. We are committed to helping you achieve the best possible result and protect your future.
If you are facing felony drug possession charges, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Sabol & Mallory Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. We are here to guide you through this challenging time and fight for your rights.