Drugs in Vehicle Lawyer in St. Louis
Let Combs Waterkotte Defend Your Rights and Interests
Last Updated: January 21, 2024
This content has been written and edited by professional legal writers and individually reviewed and verified by Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte, attorneys who have over 40 combined years in the criminal defense industry.
Drugs in Vehicle Lawyer in St Louis: Defending Your Future
Combs Waterkotte is an experienced St. Louis criminal defense law firm that has helped people from all around St. Louis take on drug possession charges. Our firm specializes in creating unique, tailor-made defense strategies that are designed to get the best possible results for our clients, whether that is a plea agreement, dismissal of charges, or a plan of attack built to win in court.
Drugs In Vehicles in St. Louis, MO: Know The Facts
Protect your freedom and future at Combs Waterkotte. Contact one of our lawyers today at (314) 900-HELP.
Missouri law, specifically MO Revised Statute 195.010 (38), defines "possession" in two ways. "Actual possession" is when "a person, with the knowledge of the presence and nature of a substance, has the substance on his or her person or within easy reach and convenient control". "Constructive possession", however, is when someone "has the power and intention at a given time to exercise dominion or control over the substance, either directly or through another person or persons". This means that if, for instance, if you had driven a friend back to his house in Kirkwood after going out to a bar and he had accidentally left a controlled substance in the back seat of your car, if you are pulled over and those drugs are discovered you would be considered to be in possession of those drugs.
The penalties for drug possession in Missouri are harsh: according to MO RS 579.015, simple possession of a controlled substance (with one key exception) is a class D felony. Not only does this carry a penalty of up to seven years in state prison and a $10,000 fine, it also means that one will have to disclose their conviction status to future employers, be prohibited from owning a firearm or applying for certain jobs, and in general will experienced drastically reduced opportunities to live the life they want to. The only exception to this rule is marijuana: those caught with between 10 and 35 grams in their possession face a class A misdemeanor (maximum 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine), while those with 10 grams or less of cannabis will be charged with a class D misdemeanor which carries a maximum penalty of a $500 fine.
Many of the drug possession in vehicles cases our St. Louis attorneys see are constructive possession cases, and they are often much more complex than cases where drugs were found in someone's pocket. Between the legality of your search, proving that you had the ability to "exercise control", and whether or not you were even aware that the drugs were in your vehicle, your case may not be as clear-cut as you may fear--which is why hiring a top St. Louis drug possession lawyer is critical.
How a Combs Waterkotte Drugs in Vehicle Lawyer in St. Louis, MO Can Help You
At Combs Waterkotte, we understand the unique challenges and legal intricacies associated with drug-related vehicle charges, and we are committed to providing you with expert guidance and a strong defense.
You should hire Combs Waterkotte because:
- Expertise in drug-related vehicle laws for tailored defense
- Knowledgeable in Missouri’s drug scheduling laws
- Thoroughly examine evidence against you to look for holes or rights violations
- Strong negotiation skills for dismissals or reduction in charges
- Fearless in the courtroom if we have to go to trial
- Client-centered approach, 24/7 access to your attorney
- Proven success in drug-related vehicle case defense
Consequences of a Drug-Related Vehicle Conviction in St. Louis
If convicted of a drug-related vehicle offense in Missouri, you could face severe consequences that go beyond fines and jail time. A conviction can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, making it challenging to commute and affecting your daily life. It may also lead to increased insurance rates, making it more expensive to maintain coverage. Additionally, a drug-related vehicle conviction may have a lasting impact on your criminal record, affecting future employment and opportunities.
Defenses Against Drug in Vehicle Charges in St. Louis, Missouri
When facing drug-related vehicle charges, it’s essential to explore potential defenses with the help of an experienced St. Louis criminal defense attorney. Defenses may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the validity of the search and seizure, or disputing the ownership or knowledge of the drugs found in the vehicle. Your attorney can also examine whether your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest process. With the right defense strategy, you can work to minimize the impact of these charges on your life.
Contact a Skilled St. Louis Drugs in Vehicle Defense Lawyer Today
Combs Waterkotte is a top-rated St. Louis criminal defense law firm that is ready to help you fight your St. Louis drugs in vehicles charges. Our firm prides itself on client satisfaction and creating an atmosphere where you feel valued and respected as both a client and a person. To schedule a free, confidential initial consultation, do not wait: contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP today.