Milwaukee Possession Of A Controlled Substance Lawyer
An unexpected police stop, a vehicle search or a drug sweep can turn your life upside down in an instant. In Wisconsin, the state enforces aggressive policies against the possession of illicit substances and unprescribed pharmaceuticals. Facing an investigation or an arrest means dealing with a complicated court system built to convict you.
During this stressful time, you need a proven legal advocate in your corner. At Laster & Associates, our founding attorney, Earlean Laster, brings over 25 years of local courtroom experience to your defense. Working with an experienced possession of a controlled substance attorney can make a major difference in your case.
Misdemeanor Versus Felony Drug Charges In Milwaukee
Wisconsin separates drug offenses by the type of drug, its weight and your past criminal record. Based on these details, you will face either a misdemeanor or a felony:
- Misdemeanor offenses: These usually apply if you are caught with small amounts of certain drugs, like marijuana or certain prescription pills, for the first time. A misdemeanor drug defense lawyer can help keep these charges from ruining your record.
- Felony offenses: Possession of harder drugs, like heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine, is a felony from the very first arrest. A conviction can mean years in state prison, heavy fines and a permanent criminal record.
When your freedom is on the line, a strategic felony drug charges attorney in Milwaukee county can fight to protect you.
Wisconsin Statute 961.41(3g) Penalties
The state’s drug rules are based on Wisconsin statutes on controlled substances. Under this law, your punishment depends heavily on the specific drug found:
- Marijuana (THC): A first offense drug possession in Wisconsin for marijuana is a misdemeanor. It carries up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. A second offense becomes an automatic felony.
- Cocaine: A first-time conviction for possessing cocaine carries up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Any arrests after that are charged as felonies.
- Fentanyl: Because fentanyl is incredibly dangerous, any unauthorized possession is treated with extreme severity. It is a felony from the very first offense, carrying up to 3.5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Because the state penalizes these substances so differently, a custom defense strategy tailored to your exact charges is vital to protect your future.
Challenging ‘Constructive Possession’
Many people believe the state cannot convict them if the police do not find drugs directly in their pockets or hands. However, prosecutors routinely use the theory of constructive possession, which drugs defense lawyers must carefully dismantle.
Under constructive possession rules, the state can charge you if you knew drugs were present and you had the power and intent to control them, even without physical custody. This frequently occurs when police locate substances in a shared apartment, a car glove box or a piece of luggage.
At Laster & Associates, our lawyers analyze these scenarios closely to show that mere proximity to a substance does not automatically equal ownership or criminal knowledge.
Shield Your Future With A Proven Defense
Do not let a drug allegation dictate the rest of your life. Contact an authoritative drug possession lawyer whom Milwaukee trusts to evaluate your case, review the legality of the police search and protect your constitutional rights.
Call Laster & Associates today at 414-973-1945 or send us a message to arrange your free initial consultation over the phone or in person. Let us begin building your defense.