If you've been the victim of a personal injury due to someone else's negligence, contact Ronnie Rae today. Let our legal experts review your case, and we'll help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Ronnie Rae, Attorney at Law
Diamond Law Building
1403 West Broadway Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Phone: (509) 323-9000
(509) 630-8800 Wenatchee
(509) 378-0154 Tri-Cities
Fax: (509) 324-9029
Ronnie Rae and his associates are prepared to handle your serious legal questions. We understand how difficult it can be to navigate confusing and intense legal hurdles, but we can help. If you have been accused of a crime or would like to know what you're entitled to after a serious injury, click on any one of our practice areas below.
If you're seeking legal counsel for the first time, you probably have questions. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to find out more about the legal process and what you can expect from your case.
Washington state has one of the highest rates of drug arrests in the country. Those arrested for a drug charge could face jail time, fines, court costs, probation, drug classes, loss of custody of their children, and electronic home monitoring depending on the type of charge and past criminal record. In these situations, it is best to trust your defense to a proven defense attorney like Ronnie Rae. With years of experience, Ronnie Rae and his excellent legal team will fight to maintain your freedom.
Understanding Federal and State Drug Charges
When it comes to drug charges, many times an offense will violate both federal and state laws. Depending on the severity of the crime and the record of the defendant, the crime could be prosecuted in a federal or state court, or in some rare instances, in both jurisdictions.
Washington state statutes regarding drug laws are often more lenient than federal laws, and may allow a defendant to participate in drug treatment instead of serving prison time, especially if it is a first offense. It takes an experienced lawyer like Ronnie Rae, with knowledge of both systems, to understand the unique intricacies between the two.
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Possession of Marijuana
In the state of Washington, possession of marijuana is fairly clear. The law establishes that anyone in possession of less than 40 grams of marijuana is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 fine. Possession of more than 40 grams of marijuana is considered a felony and is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Possession of marijuana paraphernalia is also considered a misdemeanor and carries the same punishment of a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge – up to 90 days in jail and up to $1,000 fine.
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Cultivating Marijuana Plants
The state of Washington does not give any weight classification to cultivating marijuana plants. Any cultivation of marijuana plants is considered a felony, and could be punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
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Possession of a Controlled Substance
Possession of a controlled substance is a serious charge in the state of Washington. Often, prosecutors will try to prove that the defendants intended to sell or deliver the drugs, making penalties and fines much harsher. Depending on the type of drug, the defendant’s prior criminal record, the amount of the substance found, if there is evidence of selling the substance, and if weapons are found at the scene or are used, penalties can be severe. Ronnie Rae, Attorney at Law, defends against possession of almost all kinds of illegal drugs and narcotics, including:
An experienced lawyer like Ronnie Rae can help you get these charges reduced or even dropped – protecting you from life-altering time behind bars and massive fines. There are other resolutions for your case that only a knowledgeable attorney can negotiate properly.
There are diversion programs that may help your attorney to resolve your case without the stringent penalties. These programs allow defendants to enter treatment programs and drug classes instead of spending time in jail. If the defendant does not live up to every letter of the agreement, then the court may impart the original sentence of jail time.
First-time offenders may also get some leniency in their sentence if their lawyer understands the intricacies of the legal system. A First-Time Offender Waiver may cut the defendant’s sentence in half, and allow them to be released into the community on probationary supervision. Some judges may also allow for electronic home monitoring instead of jail time.
It’s your lawyer’s responsibility to understand whether or not police procedure was followed during your arrest and initial detainment. If protocol has not been followed, or your rights have been violated, the charges against you may be dropped.
It takes a solid attorney with extensive background to maintain your freedom after you’ve been charged with possession of a controlled substance. There are options other than jail time that must be negotiated on your behalf. Contact Ronnie Rae, Attorney at Law today, and achieve the best possible resolution for your case.
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Other Drug Charges
Ronnie Rae defends all types of drug charges, including any legal issues you may face that relate to the possession, use, sale or furnishing of any drug, intoxicating substance, or paraphernalia. The penalties for these crimes can be significant. Make sure you have a trusted lawyer on your side. Contact Ronnie Rae, Attorney at Law, and we’ll help you maintain your freedom.
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