The so-called “War on Drugs” has created a lot of innocent prisoners of war. With the U.S. desperately trying to control trafficking and limit drug sales, drug enforcement has become ludicrously out of control when it comes to petty crimes. As a result, more and more people are being falsely charged and convicted of crimes that are much more serious than the evidence affords.

This is why it is important to know how to avoid erroneous convictions with the help of a reliable attorney and a strong defense. Come see how we can protect you from becoming another casualty of the war on drugs.

Fighting Drug Charges in Virginia with A Experienced Drug Defense Attorney

Drug Defense AttorneyWhen it comes to drug offenses, every state has its own code to establish the severity of the offense and appropriate sentencing for a conviction. However, since drug enforcement is a national priority, the federal government has also established its own criminal laws for drugs. These rules, outlined in the 1970 Controlled Substances Act (CSA), specify when and how drug offenses are categorized. These categories include:

  • Possession
  • Trafficking
  • Distribution
  • Manufacture

Unfortunately, these guidelines can be easily overused and abused by authorities in order to make an arrest. Although we understand that drug enforcement can be extremely difficult, dangerous, and frustrating, we do not understand or condone clients being punished solely to make a point. This is exactly why we continuously fight to protect our clients from wrongful charges, sentences, and convictions caused by:

  • False charges
  • Illegal traffic stops
  • Illegal searches
  • Profiling
  • Prejudicial assumptions
  • Baseless accusations
  • Overzealousness or the need to look good

Pushing Back the Penalties

Drug defense attorney Van Hardenbergh has spent the majority of 20 years fighting against unlawful, unjustified, and unprovoked drug charges for clients like you. His experience defending both soldiers in the JAG corps and civilians has given him a unique perspective on what drug convictions can do to clients’ futures. That is why he not only fights to refute charges, but also tirelessly works to push back, negotiate, and challenge unjust penalties. Penalties such as:

  • Outrageous fines. These financial penalties can range from $500 to $8 million.
  • Jail time. Depending on the drug and the severity of the crime, you could face anywhere between six months to 20 years imprisonment.
  • Court-ordered restitution. You may be ordered to pay money if the judge finds you guilty of a crime that caused an accident or put others at risk.
  • Felony charges. The prosecution has discretion to treat your case as a felony arrest, depending on the amount of the drug in question.
  • Criminal record. Your drug arrest is placed on your permanent record; your conviction will be disclosed to the public.
  • Career jeopardy. A criminal record—even for a misdemeanor drug offense—could cost you your job and prevent you from getting a new one.
  • Loss of security clearance. Military and government jobs do not allow convicted criminals to posses security clearances. Fort Lee soldiers and civilian employees, take note!
  • Dishonorable discharge. If convicted in a civilian court, your military status may be jeopardized, and you may face a court martial or discharge in a JAG court.

Advancing Toward Justice After a Drug Arrest in Virginia

As a result of varying legislation on drugs—this drug is legal, that drug isn’t, this drug isn’t as bad as that one, etc.—building a solid defense can be extremely confusing. However, with the stern penalties associated with drug crime convictions, you can’t afford to have a confused defense. You need a strong and reliable fighter on your side. Otherwise, bias, prejudice, and old-fashioned ignorance could cost you your savings, your livelihood, and even your future.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment, or fill out our contact form to see how we can help you get the true justice you deserve, instead of the bureaucratic nonsense you don’t. Call (804) 835-5127 now to take a step toward building a strong defense and fighting back.