Drug Crimes Protecting Your Rights & Defending Your Future

Florissant Drug Crime Attorney

Facing Drug Charges in Florissant, MO?

If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug-related offense, it’s crucial to act fast and seek experienced legal representation. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our team of skilled Florissant drug crime lawyers understands the complexities of Missouri’s drug laws and the serious consequences that come with these charges. Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony, we’re here to defend your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Call (314) 334-3807 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation with our Florissant drug crime attorneys.

Common Types of Drug Crimes

Drug charges can vary widely in scope and severity, and they often depend on the type and quantity of the controlled substance involved. Here are the most common types of drug crimes our Florissant drug crime lawyers handle:

Possession of a Controlled Substance: This is one of the most frequent charges. It involves having illegal drugs like marijuana (in excessive amounts), cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, or even prescription medications without a valid prescription.
Possession with Intent to Distribute: When law enforcement believes you intended to sell or distribute drugs rather than just possess them, the charges escalate. Evidence like scales, baggies, large sums of cash, or large quantities of drugs can trigger this charge.
Drug Trafficking: This is a much more serious offense and involves the transportation, distribution, or sale of large quantities of illegal substances. Missouri has strict mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking convictions.
Drug Manufacturing or Cultivation: Growing marijuana or operating a meth lab can result in manufacturing charges. These are considered felonies and carry severe penalties under Missouri law.
Prescription Fraud: Illegally obtaining prescription drugs, either through fake prescriptions or “doctor shopping,” is also a criminal offense.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Missouri

Missouri law takes drug offenses seriously, and the consequences can vary depending on several factors including the type of drug, the quantity, and any prior convictions.

Misdemeanor Drug Charges

Possession of a small amount of marijuana (less than 10 grams): May be classified as a Class D misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by a fine up to $500.
Subsequent offenses: May be bumped up to a Class A misdemeanor, with up to one year in jail and a $2,000 fine.

Felony Drug Charges

Possession of a controlled substance (Schedule I or II drugs): Often charged as a Class D felony, carrying up to 7 years in prison.
Possession with intent to distribute: Class C or B felony, with penalties ranging from 3 to 15 years in prison depending on the specifics.
Drug trafficking or manufacturing: Class A felony in some cases, which can lead to 10 years to life imprisonment.

In addition to incarceration, convictions may result in:

Heavy fines
Probation or parole
Loss of professional licenses
Difficulty finding employment or housing
A permanent criminal record

Legal Defenses to Drug Crimes

A skilled Florissant drug crime attorney can investigate your case and develop a strategy tailored to your unique situation. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we evaluate every aspect of your case to uncover any legal weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.

Common defenses include:

Illegal Search and Seizure: If the drugs were discovered during an unlawful search (violating your Fourth Amendment rights), the evidence may be thrown out entirely.
Lack of Knowledge or Intent: We may argue that you were unaware of the presence of the drugs or that you had no intention to possess or distribute them.
Entrapment: If you were coerced or tricked by law enforcement into committing a drug offense you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, we could raise an entrapment defense.
Chain of Custody Issues: Mistakes in how evidence is handled or stored can undermine the prosecution’s case.
Medical Necessity or Valid Prescription: In some cases, having a legitimate prescription or using medical marijuana may serve as a valid defense.

FAQs About Drug Charges in Florissant, MO

Will I go to jail for a first-time drug offense?

It depends on the specific charge. For example, a first-time marijuana possession charge involving a small amount might result in a fine rather than jail time. However, other substances or larger quantities can lead to more severe consequences.

Can drug charges be expunged in Missouri?

Yes, under certain conditions, some drug offenses may be eligible for expungement. This can help clear your criminal record and improve future employment or housing opportunities.

How long will my case take?

Each case is different, but most drug cases go through several stages including arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Having an experienced Florissant drug crime lawyer can help speed up the process and ensure the best outcome.

What if the drugs weren’t mine?

We can investigate your case and determine whether there’s sufficient evidence to prove you had possession or control over the drugs in question. Without this, the prosecution may have a difficult time proving guilt.

Do I really need a lawyer for a drug charge?

Absolutely. Even seemingly minor charges can have long-lasting consequences. An experienced lawyer can help reduce charges, negotiate a plea deal, or even get your case dismissed altogether.

Why Choose The Hammer Law Firm, LLC?

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we are deeply committed to defending the rights of individuals facing drug charges in Florissant and throughout St. Louis County. When you hire us, you get:

Aggressive and knowledgeable legal representation
A thorough investigation into your case
Transparent communication and updates at every stage
A legal team that’s not afraid to fight for your freedom in court

We understand what’s at stake. Your future, your reputation, and your freedom matter to us—and we’ll do everything possible to protect them.

Contact our Florissant drug crime lawyers today at (314) 334-3807 to discuss your case.

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