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Drug Crimes

Proven Connecticut Lawyers Assist People Charged with Drug Crimes

Norwalk defense attorneys battle on behalf of accused individuals

Though there has been much talk about easing drug laws around the country, Connecticut still has severe penalties for crimes involving the possession and sale of controlled substances. If you’ve been accused of a drug offense, it’s important to understand your legal options and the defenses that might be available. Located in Norwalk, DePanfilis & Vallerie, LLC provides strong counsel for clients facing charges in various courts, including the Judicial Districts of Stamford/Norwalk, Danbury, Bridgeport and Milford. We are trial-tested advocates who investigate the facts in each case thoroughly and work diligently to find law enforcement errors and secure favorable results for our clients regardless of the particular drug at issue.

Firm handles matters involving alleged possession and sale of substances

An arrest in connection with a drug crime can trigger state and federal charges that raise complex questions relating to law and procedure. We are seasoned criminal defense litigators who have extensive and varied experience in matters involving:

  • Possession — Sentences for the possession of controlled substances are based on how state law categorizes the drug in question. The most dangerous substances are referred to as narcotics and even a first offense for possession can run as long as seven years. For drugs in the hallucinogen category, the maximum sentence for someone without a prior conviction is five years. Small amounts of less dangerous drugs can be punished by up to a year in jail.
  • Dealing and intent to sell — Even when there isn’t evidence of a transaction, having a certain amount of a drug could be used to support a possession with intent to sell count, where a first conviction involving a narcotic or hallucinogenic might run as long as 15 years.
  • Trafficking — Connecticut’s proximity to several other states increases the likelihood of interstate transactions that can bring on federal drug trafficking charges. Should you face this count or another federal charge, our firm can advise you of the legal and procedural differences in these cases.
  • Prescription drug misuse — Penalties associated with the illegal sale or use of prescription drugs are similar to those issued in relation to non-pharmaceuticals. If your situation stems from an honest error rather than intentional misconduct, we’ll argue for a fair result.

Whatever the particular allegation in your case entails, our accomplished attorneys will challenge improperly gathered evidence, counter unwarranted allegations against you, and press for the best outcome possible, whether that is a dismissal, acquittal or reduced sentence.

Dedicated advocates challenge police and prosecutors in drug cases

With a legacy of providing effective defense advocacy dating back more than 40 years, our Fairfield County firm represents clients across the state in cases involving all types of drugs, including:

  • Marijuana — Possession of up to one-half ounce of marijuana now carries a civil penalty rather than a criminal charge. However, when the amount is more than what is considered appropriate for personal use, it is still a misdemeanor crime.
  • Cocaine — Connecticut law classifies cocaine with narcotic drugs such as heroin, so holding even a small amount puts a first offender at risk for a prison sentence of up to seven years. Whether your case involves powder or rock cocaine, we’ll challenge misleading or improperly collected evidence.
  • Heroin and other opiates — Across the country, addiction to heroin and other opiates has caused enormous human damage and flooded criminal court dockets. When appropriate, our firm looks to place clients in the Drug Intervention Program as an alternative to incarceration.
  • Methamphetamine — The dangers posed by methamphetamine and other illicit substances that can be readily created have triggered serious punishment for individuals convicted of making or selling these drugs. We know, however, that common household items can be misinterpreted as evidence of controlled substance production and will assert your rights if that is the case.

If you’re stopped or arrested in connection with a drug offense, trying to talk your way out of the problem could hurt your eventual defense. Contacting one of our experienced defense attorneys can help prevent critical mistakes and ensure that police officers uphold your fundamental rights.

Contact a hardworking Connecticut drug crime defense lawyer regarding your case

DePanfilis & Vallerie, LLC represents Connecticut clients accused of drug-related offenses in state and federal courts. Please call 203-846-9585 or contact us online to make an appointment for a meeting. Our office is located in Norwalk.

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Office Location
  • Norwalk Office
    25 Belden Avenue
    Norwalk, Connecticut 06850
    Phone: 203-846-9585
    Fax: 203-847-2849
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