Facing an arrest for drug possession in Minnesota can be overwhelming and leave you feeling confused, scared and uncertain about your next legal steps. Instead of panicking, take a moment to stay calm and breathe deeply. Remember, being arrested and charged does not necessarily mean that you will be convicted.
Your first line of defense is equipping yourself with specific legal knowledge about your rights and potential defense strategies. Acting as quickly as possible to challenge a drug possession charge with necessary legal guidance is an important goal to keep in mind.
Exercise your right to remain silent
The moment you’re arrested or approached by law enforcement regarding drug possession, it’s equally important to remember your constitutional right to remain silent. This doesn’t mean being uncooperative or rude; it’s about protecting yourself legally. Politely inform the police that you are invoking your legal right to remain silent and will only answer questions through legal channels present. It’s natural to want to explain yourself or try to talk your way out of the situation. However, try to resist this urge. Even as innocent statements may seem, they can be misconstrued or used against you later in court.
Document everything concerning your arrest
As soon as you can, write down every detail you remember about your arrest and the events leading up to it. Winning a defense case means having a strong case backed up with stronger evidence. In this case, this information can be important for your defense later on. Be sure to include the date, time and location of your arrest. Again, the name or badge number of the officer who carried the act can be equally important. No detail is too small in a drug charge case. Something that seems insignificant now could become crucial evidence in your case.
Understand your charges
Minnesota drug possession charges are classified into five degrees, with the first-degree being the most serious. Your case’s severity can depend on legal factors like:
- The drug type
- The quantity of the drug in possession
- Any prior offenses
- Indications of intent to sell or distribute
Be familiar with exactly what you’re being charged with and what potential penalties you’re facing. For example, a fifth-degree possession charge might involve possessing controlled substances like LSD, while a first-degree charge could involve large quantities of drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine.
Every drug charge is unique, and the specific circumstances surrounding your arrest can significantly impact your defense strategy. Therefore, working towards the best possible outcome for your case, requires an informed legal approach.
