Spring break season is well underway for college students in Alabama, Florida, and nationwide. While beaches are thronging with visitors, bars will also remain busy into the early morning hours. Due to the party vibes throughout the state, law enforcement officials will also be making efforts to target and arrest alleged individuals who use, sell or transport illegal drugs, including pharmaceuticals, ecstasy, cocaine and party drugs, as well as mushrooms, marijuana, and other street drugs. If you have been arrested for a drug crime, it is important to have a clear understanding of your rights and to prevent serious consequences and penalties.
With a significant amount of traffic going through Alabama during spring break season, law enforcement officials have increased efforts to stop, arrest and charge individuals with drug crimes. Reports indicate that local authorities have discovered more than $100,000 of illegal drugs by searching spring breakers in routine traffic stops. Remember that you maintain your 4th Amendment rights in any stop and search. Our Birmingham criminal defense attorneys are experienced in protecting the rights of individuals who have been arrested and charged with drug crimes. Any evidence that is illegally obtained should not be used against you.,
Many spring breakers will pass thorough Birmingham to get to Panama Beach, a popular spring break destination. Officers may have probable cause to search a vehicle if they spot or smell marijuana or other drugs. Though officers report that the majority has been marijuana, there have also been other drugs confiscated including ecstasy, “mollies” and heroin. Individuals who are pulled over and charged with drug crimes while on spring break could face charges ranging from possession, possession with the intent to distribute, distribution, or trafficking. All of these charges carry serious penalties if convicted.
Alabama as well as out-of-state residents need experienced and local criminal defense. A Birmingham criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case, identify your options, and challenge evidence illegally obtained. Remember that law enforcement officials will be collecting evidence even before you are charged. It is important to consult with an experienced advocate who can level the playing field. Some drug charges are more severe and could result in a felony. Alabama has one of the highest rates of incarceration, even lifetime sentences, for non-violent drug offenders. When spring break parties turn into navigating the Alabama criminal justice system, you need experienced and aggressive defense.
College-aged students face particular risks and challenges in the criminal justice system. When a week of partying results in criminal charges, an aggressive defense is necessary. Criminal charges could serious impact future opportunities, including scholarships and job prospects. It is important to begin building a defense immediately after you are charged to minimize penalties and the chance of a conviction.
If you are facing criminal charges in Alabama, contact Alabama Criminal Lawyers at (205) 994-0616 or use our online contact form.