What you should know about criminal drug charge defense

When facing criminal drug charges in Greenville, try not to get too upset. You cannot afford for your anger and emotions to cloud your judgment about the steps you must take to defend yourself. You need a clear head to understand the grave reality of your situation and how it can affect you for the rest of your days. 

Drug charges can range from misdemeanor to felony. There are many factors law enforcement can use to determine what level of charge to give you, including the amount of controlled substance in your possession at the time of your arrest and if you have a criminal record.

Self-representation is an uphill battle

Keep in mind that it is not easy for normal citizens to defend themselves against drug charges. There is simply not enough time for you to learn the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and legal process for criminal cases. One mistake can cause you to end up with a tougher sentence where you may wind up behind bars for the rest of your life. 

Misdemeanor and felony drug charges restrict you from employment in many fields. For example, a conviction makes you ineligible to work in the health care field. You may also encounter trouble securing safe and affordable housing for yourself and family in the future. 

Review defense strategies 

Many people are not aware of their criminal defense options. Do not assume your ignorance of the law and rights offers you protection from the consequences of your alleged actions. Depending on the circumstances involving your charges, you may have several possible options for defense, such as: 

•        Planted evidence
•        You are innocent
•        The drugs were not yours
•        Illegal search and seizure
•        Victim of entrapment
•        Pleading the Fifth Amendment 

Criminal convictions are very challenging to appeal. An attorney can review the evidence and your version of events and use them to strategize your defense. 

It is important for you to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option to avoid making the wrong choice. What appears to be the easiest and most plausible defense is not the best one.