Defenses to drug crimes encompass a variety of legal strategies aimed at challenging the prosecution’s case or mitigating the consequences faced by the accused. These defenses can range from procedural issues to substantive challenges based on the case’s specifics. The following are four common defenses that a drug crime lawyer may be able to use to defend their client.
Unlawful Search And Seizure
One of the most fundamental defenses in drug crime cases involves challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of drugs. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. If the police obtained evidence through an unlawful search or seizure—such as searching a person or their property without a warrant or probable cause—the defense can file a motion to suppress the evidence. If successful, this motion could lead to the exclusion of the drugs from the trial, severely weakening the prosecution’s case.
For example, suppose drugs were found during a vehicle search without a valid reason, such as consent or probable cause. In that case, the defense might argue that the search violated the defendant’s constitutional rights, invalidating any evidence obtained.
Lack Of Possession
Another common defense in drug crime cases is asserting that the accused did not have actual or constructive possession of the drugs in question. Actual possession refers to having physical control over the drugs, such as having them in one’s pocket or hand. Constructive possession, on the other hand, means having the ability and intent to exercise control over the drugs, even if they are not physically on one’s person.
To successfully defend on the grounds of lack of possession, the defense might argue that the drugs belonged to someone else or that the defendant was unaware of their presence. For instance, if drugs were found in a shared apartment but not in a room exclusively occupied by the defendant, the defense could argue that there is insufficient evidence linking the defendant to the drugs.
Entrapment
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers persuade individuals to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. This defense focuses on law enforcement’s conduct rather than the accused’s actions. To establish entrapment, the defense must demonstrate that the idea to commit the crime originated with law enforcement officers and that the accused was not predisposed to commit the offense.
For example, suppose an undercover officer repeatedly pressures an individual to sell drugs despite initial refusals, and the person eventually agrees under duress or coercion. In that case, the defense may argue that entrapment occurred. This defense protects individuals from being unfairly targeted or manipulated by law enforcement.
Medical Necessity Or Prescription
In some cases involving drug possession or distribution charges, the defense may argue medical necessity or the existence of a valid prescription. This defense typically applies to cases where the accused possesses drugs for legitimate medical reasons, such as medicinal marijuana in states where it is legal or prescription medications.
For instance, if a person is found in possession of a controlled substance but has a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional, the defense can present the prescription as evidence of lawful possession. This defense highlights the distinction between illegal drug use and authorized medical treatment, emphasizing that the accused was using the drugs under legitimate circumstances.
Defenses for drug crimes play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of individuals accused of drug-related offenses. From challenging the legality of searches to asserting lack of possession and proving entrapment to demonstrating lawful medical use, these defenses ensure that justice is served fairly and that the accused receives a fair trial under the law. Each defense strategy requires careful evaluation of the specific circumstances of the case and adept legal maneuvering to achieve the best possible outcome for the defendant
Thank you to our friends at May Law, LLP for their insight into drug crimes.