Criminal Law Drug Crimes
Pittsburgh Drug Crime Lawyers
Arrests for drug crimes, even if the charges seem relatively minor, have the potential to significantly affect the lives of those arrested. In addition to fines, probation, prison time and other penalties, a conviction for a drug offense in Pennsylvania may also threaten your drivers’ license, professional licensing and other educational and employment opportunities. An aggressive defense is crucial to protect your rights after a drug crime arrest.
At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, our experienced criminal defense lawyer and knowledgeable staff will represent individuals charged with drug crimes in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. Whether your offense is a felony or misdemeanor under state or federal law, we will prepare your defense and work hard to provide the best resolution possible. Our drug crimes defense practice serves clients charged with:
- Possession, including simple possession of marijuana
- Possession with intent to sell or deliver
- Distribution and/or trafficking
- Importation
- Manufacturing or cultivation, including meth labs
- Aggravated drug crimes, where firearms are present
The possible punishments for these crimes range in severity, but even a conviction for possession of marijuana may have long lasting implications. At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, we provide defense in cases involving marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine, ecstasy and other “party” drugs, heroin, prescription drugs and others.
Our Clients in Drug Crime Cases
Many of the clients that we defend in cases of drug crimes are not career criminals with large rap sheets. More typically, they are college students, working men and women and other first-time offenders. We will explore all aspects of your case, from the legality of your arrest to alternative sentences, taking into account your unique circumstances. If our client has a drug problem, we will seek drug treatment as an alternative to traditional punishments. If our client is a first time offender, we will seek disposition through a first offender program, called “probation without verdict” which results in no criminal record and an expungement (removal) of arrest records. Most importantly, it is essential that you have an experienced criminal law attorney representing you throughout the case, protecting your constitutional rights at every stage of the process
In some drug cases, much of the evidence that is compiled is obtained during illegal searches and seizures, where law enforcement officials fail to respect the Constitutional rights of citizens. At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, our firm reviews the police investigation to determine if our clients’ rights were violated at any time during the process. If we can prove that evidence was gathered illegally, it cannot be used against you in court.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Drug Crime Arrest
At the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz, our criminal defense practice is dedicated to helping our clients achieve positive resolutions. Whether your best outcome includes drug treatment, reduced charges and penalties, or a dismissal, or should your case require a trial, our firm will honestly assess your options and work tirelessly to pursue your goals. Contact us for a free consultation if you or someone you love has been charged with a drug crime in Pittsburgh or the surrounding areas of Allegheny County. Call (412) 391-3030 to schedule your free consultation today.