Under well established constitutional law, the unverified tip did not create probable causeProbable cause is the standard of proof that justifies the arrest (or indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury.) of an individual. In order to find probable cause, a cautious officer, acting in good faith, must have sufficient information to believe that a crime has been or is being committed..

In December 2006, police went to the home, and observed it for fifteen minutes. There were no cars in the driveway, the blinds were closed, and there was no observable activity.

After fifteen minutes, a dog handler arrived with a drug detection dog. The dog and the handler walked to the door. The dog alerted to the scent of contraband. Forget for a moment that dogs are notoriously unreliable when it comes to drug detection.

The dog was considered reliable enough to create probable causeProbable cause is the standard of proof that justifies the arrest (or indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury.) of an individual. In order to find probable cause, a cautious officer, acting in good faith, must have sufficient information to believe that a crime has been or is being committed.. The detective also noted that the air conditioning unit was running constantly – consistent with the use of hydroponic grow lights in a marijuana grow operation.

Based on these observations, police obtained a warrant, and conducted a search, ultimately charging Jardines with drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences..

While the U.S. Supreme Court has adddressed dog sniff tests in three cases – U.S. v. Place, 462 U.S. 696, City of Indianapolis v. Edmond, 531 U.S. 32, and Illinois v. Caballes, 543 U.S. 405, it has not decided a dog sniff case in the context of a front door, warrantless sniff of a home.

However, in Kyllo v. U.S., the Supreme Court held that people have an expectation of privacy such that the use of thermal imaging technology, which is not typical in every day life, to detect a grow operation was clearly a violation of that privacy.

In 2011, the Florida Supreme Court ruled in State v. Jardines that the sniff test conducted at his home was in fact an intrusive procedure, and that since Jardines had an expectation of privacy, the warrantless search was unconstitutional.

The Supreme Court has granted a Writ of Certiori which means the case will be heard by the Supreme Court for an ultimate decision.

1. Misdemeanor Drug Laws
2. Felony Drug Laws
3. Felony Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. Laws
4. Federal Drug Laws and Federal Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. Laws

If you are accused of trafficking in drugs or conspiracy to traffic in drugs, it’s possible for you to be charged by the State authorities – your county prosecutors such as the Wake County District AttorneyA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload. – or by federal authorities – such as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District AttorneyA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload.. In fact, since each level of government is considered a separate sovereign, it’s possible – although generally not the case – for you to be tried and prosecuted by both the state and the federal governments. Usually, however, if one entity decides to prosecute you, then the other entity will decline prosecution.

Generally – although not always – if you had to choose, it’d be better to be charged and prosecuted under state law for two reasons. First, state laws, while still very punitive, tend to be somewhat less punitive than federal laws. Second, federal sentencing has a concept called “relevant conduct” that allows a judge to punish you for any relevant drug or other criminal violations even though those violations may be uncharged or even though a juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. may have found you not guilty of those violations. Since “relevant conduct” can create the possibility of being punished even if you are found “not guilty” of almost all charges, there is tremendous pressure in the federal system to enter into a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. agreement with the government.

North Carolina Misdemeanor Drug Laws

Misdemeanors, as the name suggests, are less serious criminal offenses, usually punishable by court costs, fines, and, possibly, probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements.. Only rarely is a misdemeanor drug convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. or misdemeanor marijuana possession convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. punished by jail time.

North Carolina has a number of misdemeanor drug laws, including, but not limited to:

1. Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
   

   N.C.G.S. § 90-113.22. Possession of drug paraphernalia.
   (a) It is unlawful for any person to knowingly use, or to possess with intent to use, drug paraphernalia to plant, propagate, cultivate, grow, harvest, manufacture, compound, convert, produce, process, prepare, test, analyze, package, repackage, store, contain, or conceal a controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). which it would be unlawful to possess, or to inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce into the body a controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). which it would be unlawful to possess.
   
   (b) Violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

2. Misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana punishable as a Class 3 or Class 1 Misdemeanor:
   

   A controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). classified in Schedule VI [marijuana] shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor, but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended and the judge may not require at the time of sentencing that the defendant serve a period of imprisonment as a special condition of probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements.. If the quantity of the controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). exceeds one?half of an ounce (avoirdupois) of marijuana or one?twentieth of an ounce (avoirdupois) of the extracted resin of marijuana, commonly known as hashish, the violation shall be punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor.

3. Misdemeanor Possession of Schedule V Drugs Punishable as a Class 2 Misdemeanor:
   

   1. Not more than 200 milligrams of codeine or any of its salts per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams.
      
   2. Not more than 100 milligrams of dihydrocodeine or any of its salts per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams.
      
   3. Not more than 100 milligrams of ethylmorphine or any of its salts per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams.
      
   4. Not more than 2.5 milligrams of diphenoxylate and not less than 25 micrograms of atropine sulfate per dosage unit.
      
   5. Not more than 100 milligrams of opium per 100 milliliters or per 100 grams.
      
   6. Not more than 0.5 milligram of difenoxin and not less than 25 micrograms of atropine sulfate per dosage unit.
      
   7. Pyrovalerone.
      

4. Misdemeanor Possession of Schedule III, or Schedule IV punishable as a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
   

North Carolina Felony Drug Laws

Felonies are more serious drug charges that are punishable, usually, by probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements. and possibly prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. time, especially if the person has a bad criminal record. Most North Carolina drug felonies are Class G, H, or I felonies with the exception of Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. Laws (covered below). Meth manufacture may be punished as a Class C felony.

1. Sell Heroin, Sale of Heroin, or Sale of Opium or Sale of Cocaine or Sale of any Schedule I or Schedule II are punishable as Class G felonies.
   
2. Manufacture of Methamphetamine (Meth) is punishable as a Class C felony, unless the manufacture of meth merely involved packaging or labeling the drug in which case it is punishable as a Class H felony.
   
3. Sale of Scheduled III, Schedule IV, Schedule V, and Schedule VI drugs are punishable as Class H felonies. This includes the sale of marijuana, which is a Scheduled VI drug and punishable as a Class H felony.
   
4. Possession with Intent to Sell and DeliverPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale. (PWISDPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale.) of Schedule III through Schedule VI drugs, except cocaine and heroin, is a Class I felony.
   
5. Possession with Intent to Sell and DeliverPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale. (PWISDPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale.) or sale of a counterfeit drug is punishable as a Class I felony.
   

North Carolina Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. Laws

At the top of the pyramid of drug laws are Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. Laws. These are laws that prohibit the large scale possession, transportation or distribution (sale) of controlled substances, even though in certain cases the amounts that qualify as drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. weights are not very large at all.

Drug TraffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. laws in North Carolina are characterized by two components. First, they require a mandatory minimum jail sentence. A person convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. will spend time in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length.. Second, the only way to avoid prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. time if convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of a drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. crime is by providing “substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved.” (known on the street as “snitching”) to authorities. If a judge finds that substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. has been offered by the defendant, the judge may deviate from the mandatory minimums and impose a lesser sentence, including probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements..

In order to take advantage of substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved., it is almost always important to contact a lawyer as early in the process as possible. Since most valuable information or the ability to assist law enforcement in making covert drug buys vanishes pretty soon after arrest, it’s important that you act quickly if you believe that substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. may be the right way to go in your case.

Next, it’s important to participate in a substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. agreement with prosecutors under the guidance of your own lawyer. By working with a lawyer, you can ensure that you get full credit for all the information and cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. you provide to police or prosecutors.

Each drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. category has three or four levels of punishment.

1. Trafficking in Marijuana
   1. 10 pounds up to 50 pounds – 25 to 30 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 50 pounds up to 2,000 pounds – 35 to 42 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   3. 2,000 pounds up to 10,000 pounds – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   4. 10,000 pounds and above – 175 to 219 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..

2. Trafficking in Methqualone
   1. 1,000 up to 5,000 dosage units – 35 to 42 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 5,000 up to 10,000 dosage units – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   3. 10,000 dosage units and above – 175 to 219 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      

3. Trafficking in Cocaine (including Crack or Powder)
   1. 28 grams (about 1 ounce) up to 200 grams – 35 to 42 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 200 grams up to 400 grams – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   3. 400 grams and above – 175 to 219 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..

4. Trafficking in Heroin or Opium
   1. 4 grams up to 14 grams (half ounce) – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 14 (half ounce) grams to 28 (ounce) grams – 90 to 117 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   3. 28 grams (ounce) and above – 225 to 279 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   
   
5. Trafficking in LSD
   100 dosage units up to 500 dosage units – 35 to 42 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
   
   1. 500 up to 1,000 dosage units – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 1,000 dosage units and above – 175 to 219 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      

6. Trafficking in MDMA
   1. 100 tablets up to 500 tablets – 35 to 42 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   2. 500 up to 1,000 tablets – 70 to 84 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   3. 1,000 tablets and above – 175 to 219 months in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length..
      
   
   

Substantial AssistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved.

Substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. is the only way that someone convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of a drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. charge can avoid a mandatory minimum sentence in North Carolina. (There may be other ways to avoid a drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. through a negotiated pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. agreement, or by winning after a juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial.)

Substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. involves talking to police officers about all that the person knows after “pleading in” to the drug charge. Sometimes the defendant will know exactly what he can expect to receive as a benefit for his cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved.. Other times the defendant may plead in without knowing exactly what benefit he might expect.

In either case, cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. is generally supposed to be full and open, meaning that no secrets can be kept from the police with respect to illegal drug activity. CooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. usually occurs during a “debrief” where a person’s attorney and police either meet in a confinement facility (such as a jail) or at an office where the person is interviewed about all he knows about drug activity.

Most pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. agreements require the person to cooperate fully, with the punishment being a loss of any benefit from the agreement if the person has been shown to be less than truthful during debriefs. In drug cases, a single defendant may be just one of many sources of information that the police are privy to. Law enforcement will generally ask the defendant questions while already knowing the answer in order to test the defendant’s truthfulness. Sometimes lie detectors (or polygraph or voice stress analyzers) may be used as part of the debrief process.

Contracts

Part of substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. may involving working for the police as part of a contract. A contract is a negotiated and written agreement which promises some benefit (reduction of charges, dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date. of charges, or reduction of punishment) in exchange for the defendant helping police either by providing information, or by participating in controlled drug buys. A contract might also include the defendant helping to perform hand-to-hand drug transactions in exchange for the defendant earning a reduction or dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date. of the charges.

A drug cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. contract can be used in any trafficking or felony drug case. Drug contracts normally are not used for misdemeanor cases which are considered to minor to warrant a contract.

Drug DiversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. or Felony Drug DiversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. Programs

North Carolina has a number of drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. programs, called 90-96Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. programs, that can allow someone with no criminal record (or a very minor criminal record) to participate in drug treatment programs, possibly perform community service, and stay out of trouble. A diversion program may last six months or a year. Typically the program involves an admission of guilt at the beginning of the program, so that if the person fails to comply in some respect and violates the terms of the program, the prosecutorA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload. will be able to convict the defendant for the original offense.

In some counties, prosecutors will place the individual on probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements. for a year, and at the end of probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements., if the drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. program has been successfully completed, the Assistant District AttorneyA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload. will dismiss the charge.

In Wake County, the person is not placed on probationProbation may be either unsupervised or supervised. Unsupervised probation generally simply requires the person stay out of trouble for a specified period. If the person violates probation (perhaps by committing a new crime) the person may be required to serve an active sentence. Supervised probation requires the person to check in with a probation officer, and may have additional requirements., but is rather placed on a program with periodic check-in (or review dates) during which progress is reviewed. If the person is on his way to completing the program, then no action is taken at a review date. However, if the person has not completed at least part of his treatment or community service, a prosecutorA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload. may ask the judge to violate the defendant on the program and judgment for the original set of charges will be imposed.

As of December 1, 2011, North Carolina has made the misdemeanor drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. program mandatory upon convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of a first-time marijuana or misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia (PDP) charge. Even if the defendant goes to trial and loses, the defendant will be offered 90-96Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. at the conclusion of the trial by the judge. This program is typically one year long, and requires participate in a drug treatment program. No community service is required. In Wake County, Southlight Judicial Services manage both the misdemeanor and felony drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. programs.

Trial on Drug Charges

If no acceptable pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. has been offered, a person may wish to choose to have a trial. If charged with a misdemeanor drug charge, the person may have a bench trial in District CourtDistrict Court is the lower of two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Misdemeanors begin (and can be resolved) in District Court. Most felonies also begin in District Court, but only Class H and Class I felonies may be resolved in District Court. with a judge determining whether the person is guilty. If the person wins the trial, the case ends. However, if the person ends and wishes to appealAn appeal may be either an appeal for a trial de novo, or an appeal on a matter of law following a jury trial or appellate decision. An appeal for a trial de novo sets aside the District Court judgment and sends the case to Superior Court for a jury trial. An appeal following a jury trial raises legal or constitutional issues that are eventually decided by state or federal appellate courts., the person is entitled to a de novo juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial in Superior CourtSuperior Court is the higher of the two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Felonies may be resolved in Superior Court by pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt., or trial. Misdemeanor convictions may be appealed to Superior Court for juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial.. Because of the tremendous backlog of cases in Superior CourtSuperior Court is the higher of the two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Felonies may be resolved in Superior Court by pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt., or trial. Misdemeanor convictions may be appealed to Superior Court for juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial., a person may not have a trial for a year or two after the completion of his District CourtDistrict Court is the lower of two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Misdemeanors begin (and can be resolved) in District Court. Most felonies also begin in District Court, but only Class H and Class I felonies may be resolved in District Court. case.

If the person has been charged with a felony drug crime – Possession, PWISDPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale., Trafficking – then the person can choose to have juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial in Superior CourtSuperior Court is the higher of the two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Felonies may be resolved in Superior Court by pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt., or trial. Misdemeanor convictions may be appealed to Superior Court for juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial..

Many drug cases involve claims by the defendant that police conducted an illegal search of the vehicle, home, dwelling place, or storage facility where the drugs were found. These issues are decided by a Superior CourtSuperior Court is the higher of the two levels of trial court in North Carolina. Felonies may be resolved in Superior Court by pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt., or trial. Misdemeanor convictions may be appealed to Superior Court for juryA jury may be either a grand jury or a petit jury. A grand jury is a jury that determines whether there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The result is an indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury. that sends the case into Superior Court, perhaps for a jury trial. A petit jury or simply a jury is the jury of 12 people who have been selected to hear and render a verdict in a case. trial. Judge following a suppression hearingA motion to suppressA motion to suppress is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppress is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial. is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppressA motion to suppress is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppress is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial. is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial.. A suppression hearingA motion to suppressA motion to suppress is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppress is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial. is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppressA motion to suppress is a request by a defense attorney to a judge that he or she rule there has been a constitutional or statutory violation of the defendant's rights. The goal of a motion to suppress is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial. is usually to block certain evidence from being presented at trial. usually involves testimony by the police officer about the probable causeProbable cause is the standard of proof that justifies the arrest (or indictmentAn indictment is a finding by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An indictment, rather, is a method by which a prosecutor moves a case into Superior Court for resolution by plea or trial by jury.) of an individual. In order to find probable cause, a cautious officer, acting in good faith, must have sufficient information to believe that a crime has been or is being committed. he or she had to search the defendant’s property.

1. 4-methylmethcathinone (also known as mephedrone, sold as “Plant food”): – Class I Felony
   
2. 3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (also known as MDPV, sold as “Bath Salts”); – Class I Felony (less than 1 gram is a Class 1 Misdemeanor)
   
3. and a compound, other than buproprion, that is structurally derived from 2-amino-1-phenyl-1-propanone by modification in one of the specified ways.

N.C.G.S. 90-94 adds synthetic cannabinoids (such as K-2) as a Schedule VI controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). (regulated the same as marijuana).

1. Class 3 misdemeanor for seven grams or less
   
2. Class 1 misdemeanor for more than seven and up to 21 grams or less
   
3. Class I felony for more than 21 grams.
   

The Federal Government is going one step further, with Congress passing a bill that governs not just specific, chemically identified substances, but prohibits “cannabimimetic agents” (substances that mimic the effects of marijuana) defined as:

any substance that is a cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1 receptor) agonist as demonstrated by binding studies and functional assays within any of the following structural classes

and any preparation

which contains any quantity of cannabimimetic agents, or which contains their salts, isomers, and salts of isomers

As Mindhacks.com notes this may be the first attempt to ban a specific brain function – which is to say, anything that binds with a specific receptor in the brain.

The Drug War has finally become essentially a battle over how your mind may function.

Parents often assume that a drug arrest will necessarily mean their child will never be able to attend college, or lead a successful or fulfilling life.

While a Wake County drug charge requires a good Raleigh drug lawyer, there is hope. Let’s look at some common myths.

1. A drug crime is not serious, and we can handle it on our own without hiring a Raleigh lawyer.

   First, before we talk about the ways to help you, let’s look at some of the ways that a drug charge is a serious matter. Even a misdemeanor drug charge, such as possession of drug paraphernalia or a misdemeanor possession of less than a half ounce of marijuana, is a serious charge.

   If you’re a first time offender facing such a charge, you are probably going to be eligible for the N.C.G.S. 90-96Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. program, which as of December 2011 a judge must order (instead of imposing a convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt..) Consult with a lawyer about your eligibility, but it’s almost always wise to have an attorney by your side even if you are eligible for this program because, in criminal cases, anything can happen.

   But if you’ve had other criminal offenses that make you ineligible for the program, or if you’ve been charged with a Felony and are therefore ineligible for the program, you should be careful about handling these cases on your own.

   That’s because a drug convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. can make you ineligible for certain jobs, ineligible for certain types of student loans, and ineligible for admission to certain colleges.

2. The police found the… hydrocodone, oxycontin, dilaudid, etc… on me. I will be convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt..

   Obviously there are a lot of factors that may increase or decrease your chances for convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt., but a police officer may not simply identify the pill, and then get on the stand to testify as to what the pill was. Such layman interpretation of the markings on the pill, even if done by an analyst at the State Bureau of InvestigationThe SBI, based in Garner, is North Carolina's version of the FBI. It has a crime lab, and agents who conduct investigations usually of state-wide importance. The SBI is operated under the auspices of the NC Department of Justice. (SBIThe SBI, based in Garner, is North Carolina's version of the FBI. It has a crime lab, and agents who conduct investigations usually of state-wide importance. The SBI is operated under the auspices of the NC Department of Justice.), is not sufficient to prove the drug is what the state purports it to be.

   Even your admission that the drug is what the state purports it to be will generally not be enough to prove it is a controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI).. That’s because in State v. Ward, the North Carolina Supreme Court held that a Micromedex identification of the drugs (by using the color of the pill or markings on the pill) was not sufficiently reliable to say what the pill was. The state must test sufficient quantities of the pills to prove they are chemically the controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI). in question.

   We’ve had cases where the police have the pills, throw them out in front of the defendant (for instance, down the sink), and then still charge the defendant with possession of a controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI).. Obviously in those cases there is no way for the State to prove the substance was an illegal drug.

3. The police said that if I cooperate, I will earn a dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date.

   This is not quite a myth – it is possible to cooperate with police, and thereby earn a dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date. of the charges. However, any cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. should be overseen by your lawyer, so that you are sure you are getting credit for the cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. you have given, and to be sure that the promised prize – the dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date. – is actually granted at the end of the case.

   Too often we see defendants who were persuaded to cooperate, claim they have cooperated fully, but apparently don’t receive the benefits of the cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved..

4. It is best for me (or my child) to give a full a frank statement to police about his activity.

   Sometimes people believe they should cooperate fully – or parents pressure their children to cooperate fully – with a police officer.

   While cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. may be a good route to take – this is generally called “substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved.” – it should always be done with a lawyer present (as explained above).

   But there’s an added problem with cooperating with police without the help of a lawyer. The police may use any statements made during the cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. against the defendant – you or your child – which means that what may originate as a small drug charge, may end up as a much more serious and complicated series of charges after the suspect – you or your child – are done telling the police everything you may have done.

   There are ways to protect a person, but those need to be done with a lawyer, who can help you or your child enter into an agreement with the State or the United States (if it’s a federal case) that protects the statements given so they can’t be used against you or your child later on if things take a nasty turn.

5. I should give consent to the police to search my home, my car, my belongings…

   It is never a good idea to give consent to search. If police come to your home, or stop you in your car, you should never give consent to search. In fact, if you can remember to do so, you should explicitly say “I don’t give consent to search.”

   A police officer may still potentially search your home or car, but that search will be valid only if particular legal requirements are in place, including, but not limited to, a valid search warrant.

   Many searches are illegal, but never see a courtroom because the defendant gave consent – “I’ve got nothing to hide!”

   Whether or not you’ve got anything to hide, the constitution grants you the right to safe and secure in your home, your person, and your belongings, and you should take advantage of that by refusing to consent to a search.

   If the police do decide to search even without your consent, step aside to let them do so. Physically resisting or interfering with a search may result in additional criminal charges against you.

6. I only had a small number of pills… These charges will be easy to resolve.

   North Carolina has very harsh drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. statutes (N.C.G.S. 90-95) which kick in, for opiates, and just four grams. Four grams is about 1/6th of an ounce. Because the statute says that the it is trafficking to have 4 grams of opiates or more, including the weight of any mixtures (fillers), a person may be accused of and potentially convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of Level I Trafficking in Opiates on the basis of an extremely small number of pills – under 30.

   And because North Carolina’s drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. statutes impose a mandatory minimum sentence of 70 months (about 6 years) in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length.. The only way to be convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of such a charge and avoid a 6 year sentence is by providing “substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved..”

   Many people coming from other states or jurisdictions are shocked at how harsh North Carolina’s drug laws are.

7. The drug laws are fair and equitable.

   Very few people actually belief the drug laws are sensible, wise or equitable – especially people, judges, police officers, or lawyers – who are involved in the criminal justice system. Most people recognize the inequity and harshness of them, including the incredible abuses that occur to our liberties as a result of a 40 year drug war.

   But let’s look at one small example of how these laws are not fair. If you’ve got no job prospects and start slinging crack rock, get busted or snitched on and pick up a felony you’ve just made yourself a convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. felon. Whatever meager job prospects effectively go away, and now it’s illegal for you to hold a handgun, which makes it even more dangerous to sling crack rock without protection.

   The second time around you’re arrested, this time with a gun, so you plead guilty to a second felony. After serving a year or so in jail, you come out, even less well-equipped to have a job, and now you’re selling crack again.

   This time you’re arrest, and you take yet another pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt., but you’ve now made yourself a habitual felon.

   While the Habitual Felon laws were amended to make them slightly less harsh this year, you’re still eligible in North Carolina for a four level enhancement upon convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. as a convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. felon, which increases your possible sentence to 4 or 5 years, or more.

   That’s not equitable, not fair, and no sane, for the sole act of selling something that other people were willingly buying.

8. I’ll get rich dealing drugs, and if I’m caught, I’ll just squirrel away enough.

   Actually, you won’t. My favorite show of all time is The Wire by David Simon. He essentially draws a parallel between corporate America, the political world, and the drug world. In each of these worlds, there are people at the very top who profit off the backs of the work of people at the bottom. In the drug world, the kingpins profit off the work of the corner boys.

   In North Carolina, to add insult to injury, if you’re caught selling, possessing, or transporting even a moderate amount of drugs, you can expect a tax bill. This bill – affectionately known as the Crack Tax – is officially called the Unauthorized Substance Tax Assessment or U-Sub.

   The idea is to effectively punish someone twice for first, having the illegal substance which is a criminal offense, and for then taxing that person for failing to report the sales of that substance over the course of the alleged illegal conduct.

   Even though the unauthorized substance tax is meant to apply to dealers, people who have merely had an addiction to a substance can be faced with the tax assessment.

9. I’ve had it up to here with my child. I’m going to let him face the consequences, whatever they are.

   We meet a lot of parents for whom the arrest of their child by the drug cops is the end of the line. They’ve had it up to here and now want their kid to sink or swim. While it’s understandable to take this view, the criminal justice system is a very harsh way to punish someone, especially someone in their teens or twenties who has made a series of mistakes.

   The reason is that a drug convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. after the age of 18 is permanent – there is no way to expunge it – and it could affect a person’s ability to get federally subsidized student loans, enter the military, go to college, and get a job.

   While it’s understandable to want to draw the line somewhere, it probably is not the right decision to draw the line at helping in a criminal situation. There are plenty of other ways to hold a child accountable. Doing it by letting them “rot in jail” or “get a convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt.” is a sure way to impose life-changing consequences that can never be undone.

10. A Drug Charge is the End of the World

    While a drug charge is serious – as outlined in this article – it is not necessarily the end of the world. Where drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. or deferral programs are not available, you may need to fight the charge either through a trial or a suppression motion. Perhaps cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. is the right way forward.

    Maybe it’s a federal drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. case where you’re eligible for 5K1.1A defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. (“substantial assistanceA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperationA defendant may reduce penalties or avoid convictionA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. altogether by providing authorities with information related to criminal activity. Substantial assistance is a common feature of drug cases. Substantial assistance should only be given with the advice of a defense lawyer, since cooperation given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved. given without a defense lawyer's input may not be honored by police or prosecutors when the case is resolved.”) or USSG 3553(e) (“safety valve”) help that can reduce the punishment available to you.

    Maybe it’s a case in which you can enter into a contract with the police and prosecutors to “do work” which results in a lesser charge or an outright dismissalA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VLA dismissal may occur upon a motion by a party, or by the prosecutor. A voluntary dismissal is a true dismissal where the charges are no longer pending. A dismissal with leave, also known as a VL, is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date., is a method of the prosecutor places the case into a holding pattern, usually because the defendant has failed to come to court on an assigned court date..

    In any case, you should consult with a Raleigh drug lawyer to see how to effectively handle your case.

There are certain exceptions to this rule. For instance, marijuana is sufficiently unique in smell and look that North Carolina courts have routinely held that an officer may testify that what he observed was pot based on his experience and training.

Now the North Carolina Court of Appeals has established another exception. In State v. James (September 20, 2011), the Court of Appeals heard a case where a police arrested a person suspected of Felony Possession With Intent to Sell and/or Deliver Cocaine (PWISDPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale.) (Crack).

The police conducted a field test – Narcotics Field Test Kit (NIK Test) – of the substance which preliminary identified the sustance as cocaine base (crack).

In addition, the police officer visually identified the substance as crack cocaine.

However, before the state could test the material in an actual laboratory, the Defendant ate the crack cocaine.

The Court of Appeals held that, having eaten the crack cocaine, the Defendant forfeited his right to challenge the admission of the police officers’ testimony based on the Defendant’s own wrongdoing.

The lesson here: Don’t Eat Crack.

Now North Carolina has gotten into the act, creating a new felony for the possession of such drugs. It’s unclear to me what tests currently are available for the detection of these “drugs” other than labeling.

But North Carolina’s General Assembly has now added mephedrone, synthetic cannabinoids, methyenedioxyprovalerone, and certain derivatives of 2-amino-1-phenyl-1-proponone to the list of controlled substances.

So if you’ve got any 2-amino-1-phenyl-1-proponone on you, be aware that you are in possession of a controlled substanceA controlled substance is a chemical compound meant for human consumption that is regulated by the federal government or the states. The substances are categorized by 1 to 6 (I to VI)..

But the overall approach which criminalizes the sale of drugs, which places people in jail for the purchase or use of drugs, and which dissuades people from seeking help and treatment has failed for the past 30 years.

But DWIA DWI is a Driving While Impaired offense. It is more commonly referred to as drunk driving. In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. In other states, the terms DUI or OUI may be used. North Carolina's DWI is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to three years in jail. sentences are handled differently. DWIA DWI is a Driving While Impaired offense. It is more commonly referred to as drunk driving. In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. In other states, the terms DUI or OUI may be used. North Carolina's DWI is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to three years in jail. sentencing is governed by North Carolina’s Fair Sentencing law which, in addition to the judge’s decision at the time of sentencing, governs how much time the person will serve.

Let’s look at the most serious DWIA DWI is a Driving While Impaired offense. It is more commonly referred to as drunk driving. In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. In other states, the terms DUI or OUI may be used. North Carolina's DWI is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to three years in jail. level. If someone has two grossly aggravating factors, that person will be sentenced as an Aggravated Level 1 offender, if convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of a DWIA DWI is a Driving While Impaired offense. It is more commonly referred to as drunk driving. In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. In other states, the terms DUI or OUI may be used. North Carolina's DWI is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to three years in jail.. The judge can impose a sentence of up to 3 years in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. according to the statute, and fine you up to $10,000.

While a person convictedA conviction is a formal finding by a court - either following a trial by a judge or jury or following the entry of a pleaA plea agreementA plea agreement is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. is usually a negotiated agreement between the defendant (through his lawyer) and the prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some benefit, including, but not limited to, a reduced sentence or a reduction of charges. An Alford Plea is a guilty plea with all of the benefits and consequences of a guilty plea, but where the defendant does not admit personal guilt. - of guilt. of DWIA DWI is a Driving While Impaired offense. It is more commonly referred to as drunk driving. In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. In other states, the terms DUI or OUI may be used. North Carolina's DWI is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to three years in jail. may be paroled into DART (a substance abuse treatment program administered by the DOCA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length.), the person will probably serve two years in prisonA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of CorrectionsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in North Carolina or the Bureau of PrisonsA prison is a facility, operated by the Department of Corrections in North Carolina or the Bureau of Prisons in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length. in the federal system, where an offender is sent to serve an active prison sentence of some length., instead of three years.

That’s because North Carolina drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. laws are based on the weight of the drugs (or number of pills or dosage units) found. If the weights or volume exceeds certain limits, you will face tougher penalties.

Federal drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. laws operate in much the same way, with mandatory minimum laws based on the weight or volume of the drugs that were allegedly being trafficked.

By requesting that authorities re-weigh the drugs – especially if the amount initially came in at a weigh that was on the border between a higher and lower trafficking level – may result in substantially less criminal liability.

If this is your first time offense, and there is no good defense to the charges, and the amount of drugs is small, you may be eligible for a felony drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. or misdemeanor drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. (90-96Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversionDrug diversion may be a way for a defendant to avoid a criminal record by either participating in drug treatment, completing community service, or both. Drug diversion is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges. is available in felony and misdemeanor cases. In misdemeanor cases, community services is usually not imposed. In felony cases, a defendant may be required to perform as much as 225 hours of community service to successfully complete. Diversion generally results in a dismissal of the original charges.) program. These programs are offered by the Wake County District AttorneyA District Attorney is the represented of the State, usually elected by the people of a judicial district, to prosecute crimes on behalf of the State. The Wake County District Attorney is Colon Willoughby, Jr. A District Attorney usually has a staff, including assistant district attorneys who are the actual prosecutors who handle most of the day-to-day caseload. and administered through Southlight, an addiction treatment program in Wake County.

You should hire a competent, qualified Raleigh drug lawyer to make sure that at every step in the process your rights are protected, and that, if you successfully complete the program, the charges and record of the arrest can be wiped clean (expunged) from your record.

If you’ve been charged with drug manufacturing, selling drugs, possession with intent to sell and deliverPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale. (PWISDPWISD is a felony crime in North Carolina where no drugs have necessarily been sold, but where sufficient quantities are stored, packaged, labeled, or presented in such a way that they are apparently meant for sale.), maintaining a dwelling, or drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. crime, you absolutely need legal representation to help you defend against these charges.

That’s because crimes involving drug sales, or possession with intent to sell are felonies, which can result in serious consequences, including life-long  prohibition against owning guns or ammunition, especially when it comes to your future employment, your ability to remain out of jail, and other aspects important in your life.

And if you’ve been charged with drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences., you need to talk to a lawyer who understands how both the state drug traffickingDrug trafficking is the possession, sale, or distribution of larger quantities of certain controlled substances. In North Carolina, all drug trafficking laws have mandatory minimum sentences. laws work and also how to defend you in federal court. That’s because the federal government – through the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina (EDNC) – will frequently take cases “federal,” which can result in substantially harsher sentences.

It is important, whether the drugs are heroin, ecstacy, cocaine, oxycodone, oxycontin, marijuana, meth, methamphetamines or other kinds of drugs that you or your family get the advice of a serious drug lawyer Raleigh to help defend you against these charges.