Your Rights. Our Mission.

An Award-Winning Drug Crime Defense Lawyer In Louisville

The stakes in drug crimes can be very high – the penalties range from small fines to years in prison. At Pharr Law Group in Louisville, we’re here to help you navigate the complex and confusing drug laws of Kentucky. We have the resources necessary to perform thorough investigations and analyze any relevant case law that could mean the difference between you winning or losing your case.

Our drug crime defense lawyer, Sean Pharr, has a reputation for success in defending against drug arrests and other serious crimes. Sean has won multiple awards for getting acquittals in high-stakes felony cases at trial. He has the experience you need during this crucial time. Start today with a free consultation by calling 502-264-9494.

Help For Those Facing Any Kind Of State Or Federal Drug Charges

We’ve been highly successful in defending people against drug charges at both the misdemeanor and felony levels, including:

Unfortunately, many people get arrested for possession of an illegal substance without even knowing it was there. We know how to challenge the prosecution and cast reasonable doubt on their case. Additionally, we handle complex cases where drug charges are intertwined with other serious charges such as gun crimes, violent offenses, and conspiracy. You can count on us to build a comprehensive defense strategy that addresses them all.

Options For Keeping You Out Of Jail

Being arrested for a drug crime doesn’t necessarily mean jail time. In possession cases, alternatives like drug court can help you avoid a conviction and the harsh penalties that go along with it. Drug court involves getting treatment rather than serving jail time. We can advise you on whether you qualify and, if so, help you pursue it. We can also help you take steps to pursue an expungement of public criminal records if you’re eligible.

Understanding Controlled Substances Laws

U.S. controlled substances laws regulate the manufacture, distribution, and use of certain drugs with a potential for abuse. The schedule system ranges from Schedule I to Schedule V drugs:

  • Schedule I: Considered the most dangerous, these drugs have no accepted medical use and pose a high potential for abuse. Examples include heroin and opioids.
  • Schedule II: These pose a high potential for abuse but are approved for medical use in specific cases. They include synthetic opioids like fentanyl, prescription stimulants such as Adderall, and other drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. Misuse can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
  • Schedule III, IV, and V: These drugs have a lower potential for abuse but can still lead to misuse or addiction if not well managed. For example, Xanax falls under Schedule IV, while certain codeine-based cough syrups are listed under Schedule V.

Understanding where a drug falls within this schedule system is important because it impacts how authorities enforce laws surrounding controlled substances.

Drug Crimes FAQs

Below, we address some common questions about drug crimes.

What is the difference between federal and state drug crimes?

Federal drug crimes involve larger operations such as trafficking across state lines or international borders. In contrast, state drug offenses may involve possession, sale, or distribution within the state.

When can a law enforcement officer use drug dogs during an investigation?

The police can use drug dogs during traffic stops, in airports, and in other settings. However, the use of drug-sniffing dogs must be in line with legal protocols. For instance, in a routine traffic stop, officers may deploy a drug dog, but it must not unreasonably prolong the duration of the stop.

Who is eligible for Kentucky’s drug court?

The state drug court program is an alternative to traditional prosecution, aiming to help rather than unduly punish those struggling with substance disorders. Generally, eligibility depends on factors like the nature of the crime and whether the person is a nonviolent offender.

Participants must be willing to undergo rehabilitation and meet program requirements, which include regular drug testing, counseling, and attendance at support meetings.

Will the police charge me with multiple crimes?

Yes, an individual can face multiple charges stemming from a single incident. For example, if someone is found brandishing and discharging a firearm while distributing cocaine, they could be charged separately for gun crimes as well as drug possession and distribution.

Don’t Risk Your Future

When so much is on the line, you can count on our lawyer to personally handle your case from beginning to end. We’ll fight to protect your rights and your freedom. Call us today at 502-264-9494 to talk to a drug lawyer about your case during a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Louisville, serving clients throughout Northern Kentucky. We offer flexible appointments to meet your schedule.