Seattle Drug Crime Attorney

Fighting Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act (VUSCA) Charges

Perhaps one of the most serious types of criminal charges a person can face is drug crimes accusations. While the general attitude towards many drugs across the United States is shifting, law enforcement and prosecutors come down particularly hard on drug crimes. Even marijuana, which has been legalized in the state of Washington, is regulated and someone can still be accused of a crime. Depending on the type of controlled substance in question, along with its amount and intended purpose, a person could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.

At Guadagno Law, PLLC, I have defended many people in Seattle accused of possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of a controlled substance. As an experienced Seattle drug crime lawyer, I am ready to do the same for you.

Arrested for a drug crime? Request a FREE Consultation with our Seattle drug crime attorney by calling (206) 895-6800.

What Is VUSCA?

Under Washington law, a drug charge is referred to as a VUSCA or, Violation of the Uniform Controlled Substance Act. The Uniform Controlled Substance Act outlines the charges and penalties for the illegal use, possession, distribution, and sale of controlled substances within the state of Washington. Controlled substances are classified by their severity as Schedule I, II, III, IV and V drugs.

Washington's Drug Schedules

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) describes Schedule I, II, III, IV and V drugs as such:

Schedule I

• The drug or other substance has a high potential for abuse.
• The drug or other substance has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
• There is a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug or other substance under medical supervision.
• Examples of Schedule I substances include heroin, gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), marijuana, and methaqualone.

Schedule II

• The drug or other substance has a high potential for abuse.
• The drug or other substance has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States or a currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions.
• Abuse of the drug or other substance may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
• Examples of Schedule II substances include morphine, phencyclidine (PCP), cocaine, methadone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.

Schedule III

• The drug or other substance has less potential for abuse than the drugs or other substances in Schedules I and II.
• The drug or other substance has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
• Abuse of the drug or other substance may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.
• Anabolic steroids, codeine products with aspirin or Tylenol, and some barbiturates are examples of Schedule III substances.

Schedule IV

• The drug or other substance has a low potential for abuse relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule III.
• The drug or other substance has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
• Abuse of the drug or other substance may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule III.
• Examples of drugs included in Schedule IV are alprazolam, clonazepam, and diazepam.

Schedule V

• The drug or other substance has a low potential for abuse relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule IV.
• The drug or other substance has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
• Abuse of the drug or other substances may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the drugs or other substances in Schedule IV.
• Cough medicines with codeine are examples of Schedule V drugs.
• Examples of drugs included in Schedule IV are alprazolam, clonazepam, and diazepam.

What are the Penalties for Drug Offenses?

If convicted of a drug crime, you could experience the following consequences: 

• Class A Felony: Life in prison and a maximum $50,000 fine.
• Class B Felony: Up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $20,000 fine.
• Class C Felony: Up to 5 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
• Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine.

Why Do I Need a Seattle Drug Crime Lawyer?

While it is not required that you have a Seattle drug crime lawyer to handle your drug charges, there are numerous benefits to having one by your side. I have served clients in Seattle for years, building relationships with judges across the city, allowing me to use the law to fight for the best possible outcome for you.

I have extensive experience handling a wide range of drug crime charges, including but not limited to:

• Possession of marijuana
• Cultivation of marijuana
• Possession of a controlled dangerous substance
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Loitering for drug activity

After a thorough review of your case, which begins with a free case evaluation, I may be able to obtain a reduction in charges by proving that you were unaware of the drugs in your possession. This happens more often than you would think. You can buy or borrow a car, then get pulled over by a law enforcement officer and suddenly find yourself in handcuffs when drugs are found in the vehicle.

When it comes to protecting the rights and freedoms of my clients, I am relentless and will stop at nothing to make sure you obtain the fair treatment you deserve. My firm has distinguished itself for the unique services I provide to clients, which include former prosecutorial experience and 24-hour emergency counsel.

Understanding Drug Crime Defenses

When facing drug crime charges, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney on your side to help build a strong defense. There are various defense strategies that can be utilized to challenge the prosecution's case and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Our Seattle drug crime attorneys at Guadagno Law, PLLC are well-versed in defending clients against drug-related offenses and can help you navigate the legal process.

Common drug crime defenses include:

• Unlawful search and seizure
• Lack of evidence
• Entrapment
• Illegal interrogation tactics
• Violation of your constitutional rights

By exploring all possible defenses, we can work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case. today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

Our Seattle Drug Crimes Lawyer Can Help

If you have been accused of a drug crime, you are probably experiencing a great deal of stress and anguish over your situation, understandably. Considering that your freedom and reputation are at stake, you need to take immediate legal action by contacting a Seattle drug crime attorney as soon as possible. I can provide you with the aggressive and results-driven case strategy that fits your needs.

Facing drug crime charges? With our Seattle drug crime lawyer on your side, you can look to the future with confidence. Call (206) 895-6800 or contact us online today!