Why You Should Consult a Worcester Drug Crimes Attorney

Determined defense against state and federal charges

Drug charges are complicated, and it is very easy for a relatively minor possession charge to turn into a serious felony when certain conditions are present. Moreover, offenses involving controlled substances often fall under both state and federal jurisdiction, potentially subjecting the accused to dual prosecution for the same conduct. For these reasons, it is important to understand the gravity of drug charges and to treat them seriously. At Gould & Ettenberg, P.C., our attorneys have zealously defended people in Worcester against a wide range of drug charges in both state and federal courts. We understand how prosecutors approach these cases, we are aware of the potential penalties and we know how to guide our clients to a favorable resolution.

Massachusetts drug penalties

The penalties in Massachusetts for crimes involving drugs are usually based on the type and amount of the drug involved. While the Commonwealth has largely decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana, simple possession of other drugs, even for personal use, can still carry substantial penalties. These can include up to two years in prison for Class A drugs such as heroin and up to a year in prison for Class B drugs such as cocaine, even for first-time offenders.

  • Class A — Heroin, GHB, ketamine and other highly addictive drugs with no legitimate medical purpose
  • Class B — Cocaine, prescription opiates, methamphetamine, ecstasy and LSD
  • Class C — Prescription painkillers and narcotics as well as hallucinogens such as mescaline, peyote and certain types of mushrooms
  • Class D — Marijuana, phenobarbital and some other prescription narcotics
  • Class E — Less powerful prescription painkillers and narcotics such as codeine

Distribution of any amount of these drugs as well as trafficking or large amounts can invoke mandatory minimum sentences as high as ten years. And strict penalties are not limited to street drugs. Prescription drug fraud is also a serious crime with the potential for a multiyear prison sentence. For all these reasons, a strong criminal defense is indispensable when you’ve been charged with any kind of drug offense.

Federal drug penalties

Unlike many other state crimes, large-scale drug crimes also run afoul of federal law and are frequently prosecuted in federal courts. The federal courts operate under different procedures, different substantive law, different evidentiary rules and, most importantly, different sentencing guidelines. And not every Worcester attorney is familiar with them. But our lawyers at Gould & Ettenberg have substantial experience in federal courts and know how to work with federal prosecutors.

Contact a law firm that understands drug charges in Worcester

With a full awareness of the gravity of state and federal drug charges, our attorneys at Gould & Ettenberg, P.C. stand with those facing these serious allegations in Massachusetts. Call us at 508-752-6733 or contact us online to set up a consultation with a caring and experienced attorney today. We are conveniently located in downtown Worcester with easy access to both state and federal courthouses as well as convenient parking.