Drug Possession Lawyers in Massachusetts

If you have been charged with drug possession in Massachusetts, you need to act immediately to protect your rights and avoid the harshest penalties that can be handed down in a criminal court. Whether you are being charged with possession of cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana or heroin, a drug possession conviction is a game changer and can dramatically affect your life. Having an aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner can make all the difference in the outcome of the case. The Law Office of Stephen M. Forlizzi has a proven success record and has helped clients for many years. We will fight to minimize the impact a drug possession charge can have on your life.

When someone is convicted of drug possession, they could lose their job, reputation, family, and even freedom. It is vital that anyone arrested or charged knows their rights and also knows the possible penalties they may be facing. The penalties in Massachusetts vary according to the class of drug, if there are other underlying offenses, of if the arrest was made near a school, park, or playground.

Drug Possession Penalties

Typically, the penalties for possession of specific classes of drugs are as follows:

• Class A (which includes heroin, morphine, GHB) can result in 2 years in prison, maximum, and 2 ½ for a second offense.
• Class B (cocaine, ecstasy, oxycodone, hydrochloride, amphetamine) can result in 1 year maximum, 2 years for a second offense
• Class C (Diazepam, Lorazepam) can result in 2 years jail time if more than one offense already on record.
• Class D (marijuana, hashish) can result in 1 year loss of license, 2 years without a license if the offense occurred near a school, park, or playground.

Massachusetts decriminalized marijuana possession of less than 1 ounce. If caught with less than that amount, it is a civil offense with a $100 fine. Also, if you are between 17 and 21 and you are facing a first time drug possession charge, you may possibly be eligible for a diversion program. This could help you avoid criminal penalties altogether. A first time possession charge can also be sealed if there are no other convictions.

The attorneys at the Law Office of Stephen M. Forlizzi know the current laws and what laws may work in your favor. We take every step possible to protect our clients and help keep the penalties to a minimum. There is too much at stake to leave your drug possession charge to chance. Our firm will investigate the evidence against you and how it was gathered. Regardless of the circumstances, you have rights and deserve a skilled advocate in your corner that will fight for those rights. Let us give you a free consultation and determine if our help is exactly what you need to put a drug possession behind you.