Many people are charged with drug possession. Drug possession happens when someone is caught using, selling or manufacturing illicit drugs, such as ketamine or meth. Someone convicted of drug possession can face severe fines, penalties and jail time. Someone might...
Drug Crimes
Understanding Missouri drug courts
In the ever-changing criminal justice system across the country, new initiatives have emerged to address substance abuse issues and break the cycle of addiction. In the past, law enforcement treated drug charges like any other criminal charge. Scientific developments,...
Heroin, fentanyl and meth: scope of use in Missouri
One nondebatable fact about drugs like meth and fentanyl is that the consequences of their use spread far and wide. Thus, what happens three hours to the south in Springfield will eventually affect St. Louis residents. According to one media source, last year the...
What is Missouri law on drug trafficking in the first degree?
If you have been charged with illegal drug distribution in the state of Missouri, it is serious. But if the charge is drug trafficking in the first degree, the seriousness escalates to a whole other level. Drug trafficking charges are some of the most serious charges...
What types of crimes is the federal RICO Act used to prosecute?
The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO Act) was passed in 1970 with the aim of eradicating organized crime. It focuses on “racketeering,” which comes to us from the Prohibition-era phrase, “running rackets.” However, the RICO Act is not limited...
What it takes to get charged with a federal drug conspiracy
Proving that someone has broken federal drug trafficking laws can be challenging. The standard of proof is high and the evidence connecting an individual to each of the elements is often too flimsy to convince a jury. At the same time, however, you can serve serious...
Can you get jail time for a drug possession conviction?
Missouri has some of the strictest penalties for possession of a controlled substance. While recently recreational marijuana use was legalized, that did not lessen the penalties for other drugs. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case and the defense...
Consequences of marijuana charges in Missouri under Amendment 3
The old laws surrounding marijuana will soon be going up in smoke. Beginning in December, Amendment 3 provides for the legalization of the sale of recreational marijuana by state-licensed dealers to citizens 21 years and older. (However, the first sales of legal...
The long-term consequences of a drug crime conviction
The consequences of a drug conviction can last for years after you have served jail time or paid any fines. It leaves imprints in your publicly-available data and criminal record, some of which can last a very long time. You may have been charged with a misdemeanor or...
The laws on drug trafficking: What you need to know
Drug trafficking is a serious crime with harsh penalties. If you face drug trafficking charges, you could face years in prison and steep fines. Knowing the laws on drug trafficking and understanding what actions could lead to a conviction is essential. Missouri laws...