What to Do if Arrested for Drugs in Arizona

There is a common misconception that you can’t defend against an Arizona drug case if law enforcement officers found drugs on you. The reality is this is simply not true. There are countless defenses to drug crimes, many of which apply in situations where you were arrested with drugs on you or in your belongings. However, it’s important to know what to do if arrested for drugs in Arizona to ensure that you have the best possible defense.

At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we have more than 25 years of hands-on experience defending the rights, freedoms, and futures of clients charged with all types of Arizona drug crimes, including possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking. Our Tempe drug crimes lawyer takes a comprehensive approach to every case we handle to ensure that we scour the record to identify all possible defenses before working with you to craft a compelling defense strategy.

It’s understandable if you don’t know what to do after being arrested for a drug crime, as this probably isn’t a position you ever thought you’d be in. However, the choices you make in the days, weeks and months after an arrest can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. Below are a few things to keep in mind after being arrested in Arizona for a drug crime.

After being arrested for an Arizona drug crime, it's crucial to remain calm and avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone but your lawyer. You have the right to remain silent, and it's best to exercise this right immediately and continuously. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so politely refuse to answer questions until your Tempe criminal defense lawyer is present.

To maximize your chances of favorably resolving your case, contact an attorney who focuses on handling drug cases as soon as possible. At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we understand the complexities of Arizona’s drug laws and can provide you with the guidance and defense you need. We can also help you navigate the bail process, if applicable, and represent you during initial court appearances, such as your arraignment.

Know exactly what you're charged with, as drug offenses in Arizona can range from possession of a controlled substance to the trafficking or manufacturing of drugs. In most cases, all drug crimes are felonies, but some are more serious than others. The severity of the charges will impact the legal strategy you select, as well as the potential consequences.

Work with your lawyer to compile evidence and identify potential witnesses that can support your defense. This might include surveillance footage, phone records, or testimony from individuals who can corroborate your whereabouts and actions. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of your arrest to identify any procedural errors or constitutional violations that could strengthen your defense.

Discuss various defense strategies with your attorney to determine the best approach for your case. Defenses in drug cases can range from challenging the legality of a search and seizure to asserting that the drugs belonged to someone else or were planted. Your attorney will analyze the facts of your case to develop a robust defense strategy.

In some cases, negotiating a plea bargain might be in your best interest. A plea bargain can result in reduced charges or penalties, especially if it's your first offense or the evidence against you is not strong. However, be sure to consider the long-term implications of a guilty plea, including potential impacts on employment.

If your case goes to court, be prepared for all related proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, the trial itself, and sentencing if you are convicted. Your attorney will guide you through each stage, ensuring you understand the process and what's expected of you. Remember to dress appropriately for court and to adhere to all court rules and procedures.

Participating in drug education or rehabilitation programs in advance of your trial can be a proactive step and may help convince the court or prosecutor that treatment is the best outcome. These programs can also be part of a plea agreement or sentencing requirements.

Throughout your case, stay informed and maintain open communication with your attorney. Being proactive and involved in your defense can—and often does—lead to a more favorable outcome.

If you were recently arrested for a drug crime in Arizona, it’s easy to lose hope if you aren’t familiar with all your options. Rather than dwell on the negative, take this time to discuss your case with Attorney James Novak. At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we have decades of experience helping clients charged with narcotics offenses successfully navigate the criminal justice system. We are immediately available to help you come up with a compelling defense designed to minimize the impact your arrest has on your life. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with our Phoenix drug lawyer today, call 480-413-1499. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.