Washington First Offense Manufacturing Charge
Being accused of manufacturing, cultivating, or producing drugs puts you at risk of a long prison sentence and hefty fines, even if it’s just your first offense. That’s because Washington takes drug crimes seriously, especially when manufacturing charges involve large-scale operations or production of hazardous substances.
“But is my situation really that bad?” you might be wondering. Given the potential ramifications of a conviction, my answer is, “Yes, it could be.” As a drug crimes attorney at Metro Law Firm, I can review your situation and assist you in preparing a defense whether you’re facing a first or subsequent manufacturing charge. With an office in Richland, Washington, my law firm serves clients throughout the Tri-Cities and the surrounding area.
What Is Manufacturing of Drugs in Washington?
Washington state law defines drug manufacturing as the production or creation of illegal drugs or controlled substances. This can include a wide range of activities, from growing marijuana without a license to synthesizing methamphetamine in a makeshift lab.
The specifics of your charge will depend on several factors, including the type of drug involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Law enforcement may gather evidence against suspects through surveillance, undercover operations, or tips from informants. However, even if they believe they have a strong case, there may be potential defenses I can help you pursue.
Is Drug Manufacturing a Misdemeanor or Felony in Washington?
In Washington, drug manufacturing charges are typically classified as felonies instead of misdemeanors. And make no mistake: felony sentencing in Washington can be brutal. The severity of the charge depends on the type of drug involved. For example, manufacturing a Schedule I substance like heroin could carry much harsher penalties than manufacturing a Schedule V substance.
The specific penalties you may face for a first offense depend not only on the substance in question but also on the amount of the substance involved. Any aggravating circumstances, such as the presence of minors during the alleged manufacturing or the location of the facility (e.g., close to schools or parks), can also affect your sentence.
If this is your first time facing a manufacturing charge, I may be able to work with the prosecutor to help you qualify for a diversion program or other alternatives to prison time. As a drug crimes attorney at Metro Law Firm, I have helped countless clients throughout the Tri-Cities avoid incarceration and I could do the same for you if you don’t want to lose your freedom.
Potential Defenses to a Drug Manufacturing Charge
Just because you are charged with drug manufacturing doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. That’s because you still have time to fight back by using various defenses to get the charges against you dismissed or reduced to a lesser offense. Some possible defenses that may be available include:
Authorization under state law: If you were authorized to manufacture the substance (e.g., for medical use), this could serve as a valid defense.
Lack of intent to manufacture: Demonstrating that you did not intend to produce the drug means you cannot be convicted for manufacturing.
Lack of knowledge of manufacturing activities: If you were unaware that manufacturing was taking place on your property or in your presence, this may serve as a defense.
Unlawful searches and seizures: If law enforcement collected evidence through unlawful means, it may be inadmissible in court, weakening the prosecution's case.
Inadmissible evidence: Challenging the admissibility of certain pieces of evidence can be part of your defense strategy.
Lack of evidence: If the prosecution doesn’t have enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the charges may be dismissed.
This is a non-exhaustive list of potential defense strategies that may be available to you in a drug manufacturing case. You might want to contact an attorney to review the facts of your case and develop a defense tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
How Can a Drug Crimes Attorney Help?
Unfortunately, many people don’t realize the seriousness of their situation when facing drug manufacturing charges. As a result, they may think they don’t need an attorney and end up making their situation even worse. But when your freedom and future are at stake, why take chances? Wouldn’t you want to give yourself the best chance of getting the charges dismissed or reduced?
And with a reliable attorney, you can have that chance. Over the past 25 years, I have successfully represented numerous clients facing all kinds of drug-related charges, including those related to manufacturing. I understand the weight of these charges and the devastation these charges can bring into your life. That’s why I strive to provide the highest level of client-centered representation to ensure that my clients’ lives aren’t stained by a permanent criminal record.
Facing a First-Offense Manufacturing Charge? Get Help Now
If you have just learned about manufacturing charges against you, know that the steps you take next will shape your future. If you do nothing and choose to wait, expecting your charges to miraculously go away, you’re making a big mistake. Instead, use all the time you have to develop the strongest defense possible and approach the prosecution with confidence. And I’m here to assist you if you choose to go that route. At Metro Law Firm, I represent those facing manufacturing charges throughout the Tri-Cities, Washington and surrounding areas. Reach out today to receive a complimentary consultation.