Drug Distribution

In the State of Arizona, an arrest for distribution or selling drugs means you will likely face a jail or prison term if you are convicted. If your offense includes the involvement of a minor, or proximity to a protected area such as a playground, church or school, the penalties may be more severe. If you are the target of a drug related crime or have already been arrested, you should consult a Phoenix criminal defense attorney who will launch an aggressive defense on your behalf. Mr. Buckallew is a Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney, having been certified by the State Bar of Arizona. Attorney Trent Buckallew personally handles each case from start to finish to ensure that each case is given the personal attention and expertise it deserves. The Firm has a reputation for zealously defending each and every client and will seek to obtain a successful outcome for clients charged with serious drug crimes or any other criminal charge in the State of Arizona.

Whether an individual is charged with possession for personal use or possession with intent to sell or distribute will depend on the type of drug and amount that is involved. State law establishes the "threshold amount" for a charge of possession with intent to sell or distribute for different controlled substances. If you were found to be in possession of an amount of marijuana, narcotics or dangerous drugs which meets the threshold for a distribution charge, you may be facing harsh penalties, including jail or prison time, community work service, fines, seizure of assets, drug education and counseling, and other consequences. Because prison time is mandatory when the quantity of drugs meets or exceeds the statutory threshold amount, it is critical to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can identify the best possible defense(s) in your case.

As defined in A.R.S. § 13-3401, the "threshold amounts" (weight or market value) of some of the most common unlawful substances are:

• Heroin – 1 Gram
• Cocaine – 9 Grams
• PCP – 4 Grams (or 50 milliliters)
• Meth, including meth in liquid suspension – 9 grams
• Marijuana – 2 pounds

Having an aggressive and experienced drug crime defense lawyer defending your case in court can have a significant impact on your future. Some possible defenses which may be raised in a drug distribution case may include (but are not limited to): identifying procedural errors such as search and seizure violations, and other legal defenses such as unlawful arrest or lack of specific intent. The attorney you choose should be able to identify the relevant defenses that best fit the circumstances and facts of your case. The best way to determine what legal and factual defenses may be applicable to your case is to consult with and retain a competent and experienced criminal defense lawyer.

This Firm understands the stress and anxiety that may result after being charged with a drug distribution or other drug related crime, along with the uncertainty of the criminal justice system and what to expect when facing criminal charges. Having a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side can alleviate much of the stress associated with these types of charges and enable you to have a better understanding of the legal options in your case.

If you are facing drug distribution or any other type of drug related charges, contact the Law Offices of Trent R. Buckallew, PC for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.