Defending You From Ohio Drug Charges
For drug possession and drug trafficking defenses that get results, in and out of court, look to the battle-tested Elyria criminal defense attorneys of Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA to aggressively protect your rights.
We are your responsive neighborhood law firm — well-known for its personalized approaches to a client’s legal concerns, substantial backgrounds as prosecutors and magistrates, broad knowledge of our state’s criminal court system and attentive personal service that puts you first. Our criminal defense lawyers use their more than 100 years of combined experience to investigate thoroughly, negotiate skillfully and litigate forcefully on your behalf.
At Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA, we know what’s at stake in your drug crime trial. You face harsh punishments if convicted: lengthy jail or prison time, heavy fines, a criminal record as a felon, and strict probation or parole conditions upon your release. You would surrender rights that many of us take for granted and suffer damage to your personal reputation, employment prospects and housing opportunities. With your freedoms and future at risk, we work hard to provide quality, client-focused, comprehensive representation, start to finish.
Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA attorneys safeguard your interests against drug crime charges such as:
- Possession and distribution of marijuana, cocaine and heroin
- Trafficking
- Sale and delivery
- Cultivation and importation of medical marijuana
- Manufacture of drugs such as methamphetamine
- Party drugs such as ecstasy
- Illegally obtained prescription drugs such as OxyContin, hydrocodone and Vicodin
- Drug paraphernalia
We strive to suppress evidence when detecting any sign that your arrest for a drug crime included illegal search and seizure of items in your home, on your person or in your motor vehicle. We explore every avenue that could lead to reduction or outright dismissal of your charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Drug Charges
Ohio has strict regulations that apply to prohibited drugs and medications. Those accused of an offense related to drugs need to know the law. The answers to these common questions can help clarify the situation.
If someone overdosed, can I be charged if I called 911 in Ohio?
If someone overdoses and you call 911 to obtain emergency medical care, both you and the individual overdosing receive legal protection. Ohio’s Good Samaritan law generally prevents the state from filing drug possession charges against those who seek help during an overdose.
State law limits people to making two calls that qualify for immunity from prosecution. Those concerned about immunity can call for emergency services and report the symptoms the person overdosing has presented, rather than disclosing the use of illegal drugs while asking for help.
I was a passenger during a traffic stop, and they found drugs in the car. Can I be charged as a passenger in Ohio?
Yes, you can face drug charges as a passenger in a vehicle during an Ohio traffic stop. Even if the drugs are not in your direct possession, prosecutors can potentially build a case by proving constructive possession. If there is reason to believe that you were aware of and had control over the drugs found in the vehicle, then the state can charge you regardless of whether you were the driver or a passenger.
What are the risks of pleading guilty early in an Ohio drug case?
Pleading guilty early in the prosecution process, possibly during an arraignment, increases the risk of a permanent criminal record, the loss of defense opportunities and possibly the maximum sentence allowed by law. Pleading guilty means you waive your right to a trial and to appeal most pretrial rulings.
Your criminal defense attorney generally cannot attempt to suppress the records of searches and seizures once you enter a guilty plea. Pleading guilty without negotiating a written agreement with the prosecutor exposes you to the maximum sentence allowed by law, whereas negotiating a plea bargain might allow for a reduction of charges or the elimination of certain penalties.
A guilty plea may also exclude you from qualifying for pretrial diversion programs. If you are an immigrant, a guilty plea could make you vulnerable to deportation or affect your future immigration opportunities.
Contact our experienced Elyria drug offense lawyers today to arrange your free initial consultation. Call Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA toll free at 888-506-0340 or email us. We can speak with you at a police station or jail after an arrest if necessary.