Seattle Drug Possession Lawyers
Defending Against Drug Possession Charges in Washington
No drug offense is charged as often as drug possession. Unfortunately for those accused of this crime, Washington still operates under a "zero tolerance" statute that classifies all drug possession as a felony. That means that—except in some instances involving marijuana—anyone caught with any type or controlled substance, in any quantity, becomes exposed to serious penalties.
If you have been charged with drug possession, then experienced and aggressive representation is necessary. At Guadagno Law, PLLC, our Seattle drug crime lawyers are led by former prosecutors who are well-versed in how drug cases are processed in our overburdened justice system. We have the knowledge and resources to slow that process down, make our clients' voices heard, and ensure that they are given proper consideration both in and outside of court.
Fight for the reduction or acquittal you deserve. Call our Seattle drug possession lawyers at (206) 895-6800 or contact us online today.
What is Drug Possession?
Wa. Rev. Code Ann. § 69.50.4013 defines possession of a controlled dangerous substance as a class C felony. While Washington law does classify different drugs into different "schedules" (or categories), the possible penalties for any kind of drug possession apply to anyone charged with the crime.
What are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Washington?
Maximum penalties for drug possession can include:
- Fines up to $10,000
- Five years in prison
There are many factors that will determine the severity of your possession charge. Some of these include:
- The type of drug found
- The amount, or quantity, of the drug in question
- The offender’s criminal history
- The offender’s age
In addition to these, certain facts of your case can also increase your penalties. Penalty enhancements can occur during the following circumstances:
- If firearms were present
- If charges involved drug sales to a minor
- If the crime took place in a protected zone
- If the crime took place in a correctional facility
Note that these are maximum penalties allowable under the law and that reductions can be possible if properly petitioned for by counsel. Additionally, you may be eligible for probation, diversion programs, or Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA) if you are struggling with addiction or a medical issue. Whatever your circumstances are, our firm is ready to make resolving this matter for you as swiftly and favorably as possible our absolute priority.
Real People. Real Stories.
Read our reviews from past clients we've helped.
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“Albert treated me like a human being. He listened to me. He also was honest about the facts of the case so I always knew where I stood. You will be hard pressed to find a better defense attorney in Seattle.”- Mj
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“When people go through a rough time, caring, convincing, and timeliness responses mean a lot.”- Former Client
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“Albert was wonderful throughout the entire legal process. He was always very quick to respond and was very thorough.”- KB
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“I have worked with a number of different lawyers over the past two decades for both personal and professional matters and have to say that Albert is without doubt the best advocate and advisor that I have had.”- James
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“I contacted Albert after not receiving the service from a previous lawyer that I had paid in full. I sought second council because this was my second DUI with obstruction and resisting arrest charges. I am a good person whom made a poor choice. He took my case with the clock ticking to the last possible second before the bomb would've went off and I'd have no other choice but jail, loss of license, job. He recommended a deferred prosecution in which is intense but clears your record and as long as you do your part you can move on with your life. We were facing one of the toughest judges in Snohomish county who threatened to not grant a deferred. When we went to court to enter in a deferred the judge actually apologized to us for a small clerical error! Then the DOL problems because they have updated their system that comes with a series of problems, he has been stead fast to get to the superiors at DOL to gain my driving privileges back actually in better standing that we initially thought or were told via letters from that department. He's experienced with handling the current DOL issues and is quick to resolve. Great guy, great council. Hire him, you'll be on your way to the next chapter of your life.”- Arnold P.
