Drug crimes are covered under both state and federal laws. State drug charges may involve short-term sentencing, while federal drug charges are more severe and carry longer sentences.
Illegal activities involving drugs may result in charges that include drug paraphernalia, possession, trafficking, dealing, and manufacturing/delivery. In Missouri, penalties for controlled substances are categorized based on factors such as the risk of addiction and abuse. For example, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia is considered a class F felony.
To ensure that you get the best representation for your case, you should carefully consider your options before choosing a Kansas City drug lawyer.
4 Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Kansas City Drug Lawyer
Which Kansas City drug lawyer you retain plays a huge role in the outcome of your case. We’ve outlined four major questions to ask before you make your selection.
1. Is the Lawyer’s Practice Focused on Criminal Law?
Technically, any lawyer with a law degree can represent anyone in any kind of case throughout the city. However, a jack-of-all-trades approach to the law may not be suitable for your drug case. Nothing beats securing an attorney who focuses on and is experienced in cases like yours. Their wealth of experience and expertise improves your chances of winning your case.
2. Who Will Handle My Case?
In larger law firms, the lawyer you meet with during your initial consultation may not be the one to represent you in court. A client-lawyer relationship is built on trust and confidence. Remember to ask who will be handling your case so you can establish a relationship with them early on.
3. How Much Will I Be Charged?
Discuss costs upfront and be wary of lawyers who refuse to give you a straight answer. Lawyers charge on an hourly basis (drawn from an initial retainer) or give you a flat fee. Whatever option you are presented with, make sure you choose one that doesn’t create financial problems for you.
4. How Accessible is My Kansas City Drug Lawyer?
Dealing with a drug charge is a stressful period for you. You may have a thousand questions about how best to tackle the case and may even lose sleep. Knowing that your Kansas City drug lawyer is easily accessible is comforting and helps build your confidence in the case’s outcome.
Michael Taylor Can be Your Kansas City Drug Lawyer
If you have been charged with unlawful possession of controlled substances, contact The Law Office of Michael R. Taylor, LLC right away.
Michael Taylor is one of the top criminal defense lawyers in Kansas City and personally handles every case. With over 25 years of experience defending clients who have been accused of drug offenses and other crimes, he will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome for you.
Have your case handled by Kansas City’s finest and schedule a free consultation today!