Columbus, Ohio, Drug Defense Attorneys
Several factors are involved in categorizing drug cases as misdemeanors or felonies. A conviction for a felony drug offense can have drastic effects on a person’s future. In Ohio, all felony drug offenses carry possible prison time and many have mandatory prison sentences.
All the more reason to pick the Columbus, Ohio, criminal defense team of Siewert & Gjostein Co. LPA, attorneys with more than 65 years of combined experience in felony drug defense. Criminal defense strategies for felony drug charges include the use of diversion or intervention programs, where charges may be dismissed without a conviction. Other possible defenses might include issues such as illegal search and seizure.
Felony drug offenses and sentences in Ohio include:
- Drug possession. The level of offense depends on the type and amount of drug possessed. A fifth-degree felony carries a maximum of one year in prison, while a first-degree felony can result in an 11-year maximum sentence.
- Drug trafficking. The crime level and sentence is dependent on the drug and amount sold. Convictions range from six to 18 months in prison for a fourth-degree felony, to a mandatory 11 years in prison for certain first-degree felonies.
- Major drug offender. This allegation in the indictment can cause a mandatory prison term of 11 years for high quantity amounts of certain drugs.
