When The Stakes Are This High,
You Need A Real Defense

When Police Find Drugs, You Need To Find An Experienced Defense Lawyer

While marijuana has been legalized in Michigan, other drug crimes are still heavily enforced. Law enforcement has merely shifted those resources to investigating and prosecuting other drug offenses, namely possessing or dealing prescription narcotics and fentanyl.

At Ryan Maesen Attorney at Law, you are represented by a proven and aggressive trial lawyer who knows how to keep the government in check. I have practiced in the criminal courts of Grand Rapids and West Michigan for more than 15 years, with many notable results in drug cases.

Arrested on drug charges? 
Call me today at 616-818-0011 for a free initial consultation.

Drug Crime Defense In Grand Rapids

I am well-versed in the law and the harsh consequences of a drug conviction. Just as importantly, I know how to defend you in the local justice system to avoid or mitigate those penalties. I have experience with state and federal prosecutions for drugs and related crimes, including:

  • Possession of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine or other controlled substances
  • Prescription drug offenses (e.g., oxycodone)
  • Possession with intent to deliver
  • Distribution and transportation
  • Drug manufacture
  • Maintaining a drug house
  • Drug trafficking
  • Money laundering
  • Weapon enhancements

The level of charges and the potential punishments depend on the type of drug, the amount seized, prior convictions, association with other drug offenders and what the government believes was the intent of the accused.

I examine every facet of your arrest and subsequent charges, including surveillance, search warrants, informants, traffic stops and the chain of evidence. My front-end intervention with prosecutors and my courtroom defense has resulted in dismissed charges, reduced charges and acquittals, and other favorable outcomes for clients.

What Are The Penalties For Drug Crimes In Michigan?

Some of the most common penalties and collateral consequences associated with Michigan drug crime convictions include:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Extensive fines
  • Asset forfeiture
  • Mandatory drug treatment
  • Community service
  • Loss of federal financial aid or entitlements
  • Difficulty finding work or housing because of the felony record
  • Sanctions against a professional license
  • Reduction in child custody or visitation rights
  • Loss of an immigration visa or green card, denial of citizenship, or deportation

First, the type of drug you have been charged with will make a significant difference in the legal consequences you face. The more illicit the drug, the harsher the penalties. For instance, possession of heroin will typically carry a much steeper sentence than possession of LSD or psilocybin in the same amount.

Next, and not surprisingly, the amount of drugs will significantly impact the criminal penalties. While possession of 20 grams of cocaine may be punishable by up to four years in prison, possession of 1,000 grams is punishable by up to life in prison.

What the individual was doing with the drugs will have a substantial impact on how the charges are brought against them. For example, using cocaine may be charged as a misdemeanor. However, if you were caught in possession of a certain quantity of the same drug (cocaine) it would be a felony. The charges and penalties will increase for dealing drugs (also called delivery) or manufacturing them.

Finally, if you have a criminal history that includes previous drug crime convictions, the penalties may increase exponentially.

At Maesen Law, my staff and I work to aggressively get ahead of your case to limit the court penalties and the impact of a drug arrest on your livelihood, your freedom and your future. We will mount a vigorous defense against the criminal charges while exploring alternatives, such as drug court for first-time offenders who have addiction issues.

Get The Strong, Local Representation You Need

I was raised in Grand Rapids and have spent my career representing the people of Kent County and surrounding areas of West Michigan. Contact Ryan Maesen Attorney at Law today to set up a free consultation to discuss your drug arrest and how my experience can help. You can call 24 hours a day at 616-818-0011 or reach out by email.