A drug arrest within the Florence jurisdiction carries immediate, severe threats to your professional livelihood, personal reputation and long-term liberty. Navigating the initial stages of the Boone County criminal justice system requires strategic precision. You can mitigate exposure to severe penalties by avoiding critical procedural missteps.
Speaking with law enforcement officials without counsel
People often think they can explain their situation to law enforcement officials. This is a significant mistake. Officers look for evidence to build a case against you. You must remember that statements you make will appear in police reports.
You should politely inform the officer that you want to speak with an attorney before you answer questions. You must stop talking after you make this request.
Consenting to a physical property search
Law enforcement personnel may ask to look inside your vehicle or your home. You have constitutional protections against unreasonable searches. Officers sometimes conduct a search anyway, but your explicit refusal protects your options in court later.
A drug possession charge involves severe statutory consequences. For example, first-degree possession of a controlled substance involves any baseline amount of a prohibited narcotic and can trigger a Class D felony penalty. An illegal search can lead to the dismissal of evidence if you follow these rules:
- State clearly that you do not consent to the search.
- Remain calm and do not physically interfere with the officer.
- Note the names of the officers who are present.
Your defense team can review the police conduct to determine if the state violated your rights during the stop.
Delaying your choice of a dedicated legal advocate
You do not have to navigate the complex Boone County court system alone. Our firm operates as a digital practice, which means your important legal documents are accessible to you online at all times. We stand by our clients around the clock.
You need a trial attorney who will fight for the outcome you deserve. Contact The Law Office of Marvin Knorr and Associates at 859-495-1857 to discuss your case strategy with us today.