Defending Against Philadelphia Heroin Possession and Trafficking Charges

Facing Heroin Charges in Philadelphia? What You Need to Know

Getting arrested for heroin possession or trafficking in Philadelphia can be scary. The penalties are harsh, and these types of drug cases often seem hopeless to beat. But with an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you may have more options than you realize. This article breaks down key things to understand about Philly heroin laws, common defenses that work, and realistic outcomes to expect.

Heroin Laws in Philadelphia: The Basics

First, let’s cover the basics on heroin laws in Philly. Possession of any amount is a misdemeanor under Pennsylvania law. Trafficking and dealing charges depend on weight. Between 1-5 grams bumps you up to a felony with up to 10 years in prison. Over 5 grams triggers a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years behind bars.

So if you’re facing a heroin case, the specific charges and amounts involved really matter. A good criminal defense lawyer will evaluate all the details upfront to build the strongest defense.

Common Defenses Against Heroin Charges

When representing heroin cases in Philadelphia, some of the most effective legal defenses we raise include:

• Illegal Search & Seizure – If police didn’t have probable cause or a warrant to search your home, car, belongings, etc., any heroin found may get thrown out. Fruit of the poisonous tree and all that.
• Entrapment – Undercover drug stings sometimes cross the line. The key is showing you wouldn’t have bought or sold heroin if it weren’t for aggressive police tactics.
• Misidentification – Laboratory tests can mistake other substances for heroin. So faulty drug test results could weaken the DA’s case.
• Rehab Over Incarceration – For simple possession charges, judges may allow drug treatment instead of jail time. But you must show commitment to getting clean.

Those are just a few examples. An experienced drug crimes lawyer will dig deep into the details of your arrest to spot potential defenses. The goal is getting charges reduced or dismissed entirely.

But if the evidence against you seems airtight, pleading guilty to lesser charges or entering rehab may become your best options. Never assume a heroin case is hopeless right off the bat.

What to Expect if Convicted of Heroin Charges

Unfortunately heroin convictions often lead to jail or prison time in PA. Minimum sentences for trafficking are no joke. Probation for serious charges is hard to secure in Philly’s tough on crime courts.

But an attorney may still negotiate deals like:

• Pleading down to simple drug possession
• Entering rehab instead of jail
• Reduced probation terms
• Avoiding felony convictions

Any of those outcomes are better than doing years behind bars. With heroin deaths rising in Philly, judges and prosecutors take these cases very seriously. So fighting the charges must be your top priority.

Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Heroin Case

Defending against heroin charges requires an aggressive lawyer who knows PA drug laws inside out. They also must have experience negotiating with Philly courts and drug prosecutors. No two heroin cases are alike. The facts surrounding your specific charges dictate available defenses.

I recommend researching lawyers’ credentials and client reviews closely. Make sure they have a proven track record with heroin and other drug crimes specifically. Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an inexperienced attorney. Criminal defense is too specialized these days.

Beat Philadelphia Heroin Charges with a Tough Defense

Facing heroin charges can feel overwhelming. But taking an informed, proactive approach to your defense makes a huge difference. Now that you know the basics of PA heroin laws and potential defenses, contact an experienced drug crimes lawyer for a free case evaluation. An open honest discussion about your options goes a long way toward relieving stress. And it could be the first step to getting charges reduced or dismissed. Don’t wait to act if you or a loved one winds up facing heroin possession or trafficking charges in Philadelphia. The stakes are high, but all hope is not lost.