Heroin Possession, Distribution & Sales in Johnson County

A Johnson County Heroin Attorney Can Help Protect Your Rights

Heroin is a hard drug which attracts heavy attention from law enforcement and prosecutors.  It is always a felony in Kansas, and penalties for possession and distribution are extremely strict.  If you are facing heroin possession or distribution charges, a Johnson County heroin attorney can help you avoid the life-changing consequences of a conviction.

 

Penalties for Heroin Possession and Distribution

Possession of Heroin

Possession of heroin is a Level V felony offense, and prison time depends on how extensive your criminal record is.  The sentencing guidelines range from 10 months to 42 months imprisonment. With a limited criminal history, probation might be an option.  This would include random drug testing and court ordered substance abuse treatment.

Distribution of Heroin

Possession of over 3.5 grams of heroin creates a presumption that you intend to distribute.  This charge increases the severity level of the crime and the possible punishments. If there are other pieces of evidence, like a scale or individual packages, a prosecutor can actually charge you with intent to distribute regardless of the amount in your possession.  

There is no difference for the sentencing guidelines between distribution of heroin or possession with intent to distribute.  Heroin felonies can range between a Level IV and Level I offense, and the complaint you received will indicate what you’ve been charged with.  The severity depends on the amount of heroin that was found, and the sentencing guidelines range between 14 months to 204 months in prison.

Facing Heroin Charges

In Johnson County, the District Attorney’s office has a specialized unit that handles the prosecution of drug crimes.  As a former prosecutor, I know the best approach to fighting these charges typically involves evaluating whether the police conducted their stop and search properly, or if they violated search and seizure laws.  

 If you have been charged with heroin possession, possession of heroin with intent to distribute, or heroin distribution, you may also be able to assert defenses such as:

• Failure to read your Miranda rights
• Failure to maintain chain of custody
• Failure to conduct appropriate laboratory testing
• Failure to disclose key evidence
• Failure to meet the state’s burden of proof

When you choose the Merrill Law Firm, I will analyze the facts of your case in detail to determine what defenses you have available. I will build a strong defense strategy based on my experience on both sides of serious drug cases in Johnson County, and I will work diligently to protect you to the fullest extent possible. If you are facing a heroin possession or distribution charge in Johnson County, you need an experienced attorney, and I encourage you to contact me 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation about your defense.

Are You Facing Criminal Charges Because of Your Heroin Addiction?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in Kansas, “the majority of drug overdose deaths in 2017 involved an opioid,” such as heroin. Addiction is a serious problem for heroin users across the state, and many users find themselves facing serious criminal charges as a result of their heroin addictions.

If you are facing a heroin possession or heroin distribution charge in Johnson County, it is important that you seek help immediately. This includes seeking addiction treatment and speaking with a criminal defense attorney. If you are struggling with heroin addiction, there are resources available, and there are defense strategies that an experienced attorney can use to help you avoid unnecessary and life-altering consequences as a result of your arrest.

Contact an Experienced Johnson County Heroin Attorney for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with a heroin drug offense, then you’ll want to connect to an experienced Johnson County heroin attorney to understand the next steps to take in securing your rights.  Heroin drug offenses — like other felony drug offenses — are associated with significant penalties, and require the very best defense. It is critical that you work with a drug crime lawyer who is experienced and knows search and seizure laws.

I’m Jerry Merrill, a criminal defense attorney in Johnson County.  I’m ready and willing to put my expertise to use on your behalf. Unlike many other criminal defense attorneys, I have extensive experience as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, giving me unique insight into the tactics employed by each side — I am well-positioned to navigate the issues typical of heroin drug offense litigation.

When you consult with a criminal defense attorney, it’s important to understand that an effective working relationship must be founded on mutual respect and concern.  I am committed to my clients, and am deeply invested in their success. I make my personal number available to all of my clients so that I can answer their calls and texts throughout the week (and weekend), if necessary.

Call (913) 815-0705 today to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Our clients come from Johnson County, Olathe, Shawnee, Overland Park and more!