Understanding Drug Crimes in Las Vegas

Drug crimes in Las Vegas are one of the top focuses that the police are currently after. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Narcotics Division has a huge budget which allows them to place focus on targeting drug users and sellers throughout Las Vegas and its surrounding area.

Because of this, you need a skilled drug lawyer Las Vegas residents trust like Michael Troiano.

The courts in Nevada are strict around drug offenses which is why it is important to have representation from an experienced drug possession attorney.

Common Drug Crimes in Nevada

Nevada has different drug related offenses that you could be charged with.

• Possession of Controlled Substance – Having illegal drugs for personal use
• Possession with Intent to Sell – Having drugs with evidence that you planned to distribute them
• Trafficking Controlled Substance – Holding, Making, or Delivering large quantities of drugs
• Sale of Controlled Substance – Giving some one drugs and receiving money or other items in return
• Being Under the Influence – Having any illegal drugs in your system
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Having any item that would be used to consume or distribute drugs

Having any controlled substance on you is a felony in Nevada. Marijuana is the only exception if it is under 1 ounce. Selling any illegal drugs, including marijuana, is also a felony regardless of the amount.

Impact of Drug Crime Convictions

Drug crimes have huge consequences beyond time in jail or fines. Some other repercussions are:

• Negative impacts to current and future employment opportunities
• Restrictions on where you can live
• Issues gaining licenses for different professions
• Impact to custody of any children
• Loss of right to bear arms (unable to own any guns)
• Possible negative impacts to immigration status
• Loss of eligibility for student aid

Working with an experienced drug crime attorney is important as they can help minimize these impacts and better protect your future!

How a Drug Lawyer Las Vegas Trust Can Help

If your being accused of drug crimes, Attorney Michael A. Troiano is able to help by providing you expert legal support. One of the top skilled drug lawyer attorneys that Las Vegas defendants rely on. He will assist by:

• Reviewing evidence and identifying violations of your rights
• Challenge improper searches and handling of evidence
• Negotiate with the prosecutors to reduce your charges and/or dismiss them
• Explore the possibility of being eligible for a diversion program
• Build a strong defense strategy that is specific to your case
• Fight for the best possible outcome

Attorney Michael A. Troiano will do everything he can to gain a dismissal or a reduction of the drug crimes allegations to help you avoid prison and minimize the impact on your future!

NRS Codes Related to Drug Crimes

NRS 453.336 – Possession of Controlled Substance

Potential Penalties:

• First offense: Category E felony – 1-4 years (usually probation eligible)
• Second offense: Category D felony – 1-4 years and up to $5,000 in fines
• Third offense: Category C felony – 1-5 years and up to $10,000 in fines

Possible Defenses:

• The substance wasn’t actually controlled
• Valid prescription
• Belonging to someone else
• Illegal search and seizure
• Chain of custody issues
• Lack of knowledge

NRS 453.337 & 453.338 – Possession with Intent to Sell

Potential Penalties:

• Schedule I or II substances: Category D felony – 1-4 years and up to $5,000
• Subsequent offenses carry increased penalties

Possible Defenses:

• No intent to sell (personal use only)
• Illegal search and seizure
• Insufficient evidence of intent
• Mistaken identity

NRS 453.3385, & 453.339 – Trafficking

Potential Penalties:

• Low-level trafficking: 1-6 years and up to $50,000
• Mid-level trafficking: 2-15 years and up to $100,000
• High-level trafficking: 25 years to life and up to $500,000

Possible Defenses:

• Inaccurate weight measurements
• Illegal search and seizure
• Chain of custody issues
• Constitutional violations

NRS 453.411 – Under the Influence

Potential Penalties:

• First/second offense: Misdemeanor – Up to 6 months and/or up to $1,000
• Third offense: Gross misdemeanor – Up to 364 days and/or up to $2,000
• Fourth+ offense: Category E felony – 1-4 years (usually probation eligible)

Possible Defenses:

• Inaccurate testing
• Legal prescription use
• Improper police procedure

Treatment Options and Diversion Programs

In Nevada, you can be offered the chance to take an alternative program, rather than having to face, prison or jail time. Having a good drug possession attorney can help you gain access to these options:

• Drug Courts: Special programs that involve both supervision with treatment
• Diversion Program: Allows first-time offenders to go through treatment instead of jail
• Treatment Options: Different rehab programs that would be court-mandated

If you complete these options, it can lead to have your sentence reduced or having your charges dismissed. Having a knowledgeable drug lawyer Las Vegas residents trust can be the deciding factor on you qualifying for these programs!

How Attorney Michael A. Troiano Defense Against Drug Crimes

Michael Troiano has years of experience as one of the leading drug crimes attorney in Las Vegas. He approaches his cases by:

1. Thorough Case Analysis: He will review every detail of the drug crimes case.
2. Protection of Rights: He ensures that your Fourth Amendment rights did not get violated
3. Challenge Evidence: Makes sure that the handling and testing of evidence was done correctly
4. Skilled Negotiation: Works with both the prosecution and his clients to achieve a favorable outcome
5. Treatment Support: Helps his clients access the proper treatment programs for drug crimes

Steps to Take if Charged with Drug Crimes

If your facing drug crimes, you need to:

1. Remain silent, don’t answer any questions regarding the charges!
2. Document everything that happened during your arrest.
3. Follow every court order and don’t miss any court dates you are required to appear for.
4. Consider treatment options that will help

The Advantage of Specialized Drug Possession Attorneys

A dedicate drug possession attorney will be an expert who understands:

• Search and seizure laws as they relate to drug cases.
• How to properly challenge laboratory evidence.
• Nevada’s specific drug crime statutes and penalties.
• Available diversion options and their eligible requirements to attend

Having an attorney with this special knowledge can highly impact the outcome of your case!

Conclusion

If your being accused of a drug crime in Las Vegas, you need to make sure you have the proper attorney to help reduce any serious effects that may impact your life for years.

With aggressive prosecutors by well-funded agencies, facing these charges by yourself puts your freedom and future at risk. Having a qualified drug lawyer Las Vegas defendants trust, like Michael A. Troiano, offers the knowledge and experience needed to help protect your rights!

It doesn’t matter if you’re facing a first-time possession charge or a serious trafficking allegation, having a skilled drug possession attorney can make the biggest difference in the outcome of your case. Call our office for assistance with any drug crimes in Las Vegas.