Fairfield, Connecticut Drug Possession Defense Law Firm
Connecticut Criminal Defense Attorneys
Connecticut drug laws are rigid and the penalties can be harsh. If you are charged with drug possession in Fairfield, consider enlisting the help of the experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Mark M. Kratter, LLC, who have over 20 years of experience in defending individuals against drug charges in Connecticut, and understand the nuances of the state's drug laws.
Decriminalization of Marijuana
Although the war on drugs is evident in Connecticut drug law, one area demonstrating leniency is the state's recent decriminalization of small amounts of marijuana. Once a misdemeanor crime, simple possession of less than one-half ounce of marijuana is now an "infraction," punishable by a $150 fine for a first offense, and up to $500 for second and subsequent offenses. But there is a catch: those caught with less than one-half ounce of marijuana will receive a ticket for the infraction, and if they plead guilty, it will be registered on their permanent driving record, where it can potentially come up in background checks for employment, housing, and government screenings. Those who are under 21 and plead guilty will also get their driver's license suspended for 60 days.
Potential for Federal Drug Charges
An issue regarding any serious drug case that is prosecuted in Connecticut state court is whether federal charges will be brought against a defendant as well. The United States Attorney's Office in Connecticut, with the assistance of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) can individually exercise jurisdiction over most state drug cases and commence a prosecution in federal court, where the penalties and mandatory minimum jail sentences are even tougher than those penalties under the Connecticut state drug laws.
Those fighting drug possession charges in Fairfield, Connecticut require aggressive legal representation, and the attorneys at the Law Offices of Mark M. Kratter, LLC have been successfully representing individuals facing drug possession charges in Connecticut for more than 20 years. Contact the Law Offices of Mark M. Kratter, LLC online or call 203-678-8135 to schedule your free initial consultation today.
