Lafayette Drug Crime Lawyer

Lafayette Drug Crime Attorney

Drug offenses are taken very seriously at both the state and federal levels. However, you still retain your right to fair trial proceedings and proper counsel if accused of a drug crime. If you or a loved one is preparing to face such offenses, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified Lafayette drug crime lawyer.

What to Know About Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law

At the law office of Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law, we understand the stress and fear that come with facing a drug charge, whether it’s your first offense or a subsequent offense. With over 25 years of legal experience, you can feel confident in the representation Eric S. Neumann offers for each client’s individual needs.

Types of Drug Crime Charges We Handle

In fiscal year 2024, 32.1 percent of federally sentenced individuals in Louisiana were convicted of a drug-related offense, including trafficking and simple possession. This was slightly higher than the national rate, which was 29.6 percent of sentenced individuals that same year. Of the sentences in Louisiana, 45 percent involved methamphetamine.

Our firm handles all kinds of drug crime cases, including, but not limited to:

• Simple possession. This drug offense is very common and involves the accusation of having a controlled substance on your property or person, presumably for personal use. A related charge is possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Possession with intent to distribute. This crime is more serious than simple possession since the intent to sell or deliver drugs is assumed, typically due to the amount of substances found or other evidence that alludes to distribution.
• Distribution. The actual transfer or sale of controlled substances is known as distribution, including giving drugs away or delivering on behalf of someone else.
• Manufacturing. This offense entails taking part in any process used to make, cultivate, or prepare a controlled substance.
• Trafficking. This serious drug crime involves possessing or transporting substances above the state’s statutory weight threshold.

If you or a loved one has been charged with one of these common drug offenses, don’t hesitate to hire a drug crime lawyer from our firm.

Why You Should Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer in Lafayette

There are numerous reasons why you should consider working with an experienced Lafayette drug crime attorney, such as Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law. Louisiana drug crime laws can be complex to navigate at times, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the criminal court system and its various processes or standards. A defense lawyer is there to guide you every step of the way, providing high-quality legal counsel and representation.

The penalties and repercussions you may face if convicted of a drug offense in Louisiana can vary depending on the type of crime, the substance involved, your prior criminal history, and other factors. Regardless of your circumstances, your attorney can advocate fiercely on your behalf to minimize your chances of conviction or harsh and unnecessary punishment.

Most drug offenses are felonies and most likely to be processed at the 15th Judicial District Court, which is located at 800 S. Buchanan Street, Lafayette, LA. However, if your drug crime case happens to be a misdemeanor, it may instead be handled at the Lafayette City Court, located at 600 Jefferson Street in Lafayette. To verify which legal venue will oversee your case, be sure to consult your drug crime defense attorney.

FAQs

Do First-Time Drug Offenders Go to Jail in Louisiana?

It is not always guaranteed that a first-time drug offender will go to jail in the state of Louisiana. If convicted of a drug offense as a first-time offender, it is possible you may be given time in jail as part of your sentence, but this depends on the severity of the charges against you. More serious offenses often do include a jail or prison sentence, while less severe charges may entail alternative sentencing options.

Do I Need a Drug Crime Lawyer in Louisiana?

While you are not technically required to hire a drug crime lawyer to defend in the state of Louisiana, it is strongly recommended that you do retain legal counsel for several reasons. Even if you think your case is a simple misunderstanding or not that serious, it can be very easy for you to unintentionally harm your chances of a favorable outcome. An attorney is there to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf.

What Are the Penalties for a Drug Crime in Louisiana?

The penalties for a drug crime in Louisiana can vary depending on several factors. The factors of your unique case that can influence legal penalties if convicted of a drug crime include the amount and type of substance, the nature of the offense, and whether you have a history of similar convictions, among other details. Typically, penalties can include jail or prison time, fines, and other requirements or restrictions deemed necessary.

Can a Drug Possession Charge Be Dropped in Louisiana?

It’s possible for a drug possession charge to be dropped, but it’s never guaranteed. Whether it’s possible for simple possession or possession with intent to distribute charges to be dropped depends on the circumstances of the case, as well as the skills of your defense attorney. It’s more likely for charges to be dropped when there is little evidence for the prosecution to move forward, or there were procedural errors by law enforcement during the arrest or investigation.

How Long Does a Drug Crime Case Take in Louisiana?

It’s difficult to estimate how long a particular drug crime case may take in Louisiana without reviewing the case details. Each case is unique, and there is no standard timeline. Simple cases may only require a few weeks, while more complex or severe cases may require a year or longer to resolve. To get an idea of the duration of your case, it’s recommended that you consult with a defense attorney.

Speak With a Skilled Drug Crime Attorney in Lafayette

Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law, is well prepared to give your drug offense case the time, care, and attention it deserves. Reach out to our legal team today to schedule an initial consultation with a qualified defense attorney with extensive experience.