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A crack cocaine possession charge in Philadelphia can be upsetting and overwhelming, leaving you worried about your future, reputation, job, and family. However, a possession of illegal drugs charge doesn’t always lead to a criminal conviction. Not every individual found to be in possession of narcotics receives a felony drug charge conviction, especially those that hire the right Philadelphia criminal defense attorney to protect their interests.
Two different types of crack cocaine possession charges exist:
The key difference between simple possession and possession with the intent to deliver cocaine in Pennsylvania often comes down to two factors:
The specific circumstances and details will also make the distinction between the two charges. Those found in possession of smaller amounts of crack cocaine usually receive a personal use possession charge. Individuals with larger quantities of this drug packaged separately will bring a charge for PWID.
Pennsylvania’s penalties for cocaine possession also rely on numerous factors, such as:
It’s crucial that defendants facing crack cocaine possession charges understand that possible penalties for a felony are harsher and more severe than the potential penalties for a misdemeanor. Simple possession of cocaine typically leads to misdemeanor charges, but a PWID will result in felony charges. No matter what type of charge you are facing, you want a knowledgeable Philadelphia criminal defense attorney representing your case. If you don’t hire one, you could be looking at the maximum penalties for your cocaine charges.
A conviction for misdemeanor possession of cocaine in Pennsylvania could result in:
First Offense Misdemeanor Cocaine Possession
Second Offense Misdemeanor Cocaine Possession
Third Offense Misdemeanor Cocaine Possession
Pennsylvania's penalties for felony possession of cocaine vary depending on based on the amount of cocaine involved in the charge. The maximum prison sentence for conviction of a first-offense felony cocaine possession charge, or subsequent offenses, is 15 years. Upon conviction, the court can impose a criminal fine as high as $250,000. Additionally, a conviction of this magnitude will result in the suspension of the individual's driver's license for at least six months for a first offense, one year for a second offense, and 18 months for a third offense.
The more serious the charges are, the more you need help from a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed in both federal and Pennsylvania law and courts. Their knowledge and experience can result in your charges being reduced or even dropped.
Your Philadelphia criminal defense attorney will thoroughly review all aspects of your case to determine which defenses will benefit you the most:
At Wimmer Criminal Defense, our legal team’s capacity to detect weaknesses in the government’s case related to their lack of evidence, illegal police measures, or mishandling of evidence is unmatched. We utilize these factors when fighting the charges or obtaining a fair plea deal in your case.
Don’t face the potential of embarrassing and devastating consequences that a Pennsylvania cocaine possession charge can bring. Your Philadelphia criminal defense attorney at Wimmer Criminal Defense can advise you as to whether it is worth fighting a charge or if negotiating a plea deal might be the best choice in your specific circumstances. Either way, we strive for the best outcome possible.
For a free, completely confidential legal consultation with a skilled Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer, call our office and speak to attorney Lauren Wimmer at 215-712-1212 or use our online contact form.
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