Minnesota Drug Crime Defense Attorney
Minnesota drug charges range from fifth-degree possession to first-degree sale, with penalties that can include decades in prison. The state's drug laws are complex, and the difference between possession and sale charges often comes down to quantity and circumstance.
What's At Stake
Prison sentences ranging from probation to 30+ years depending on the degree, mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses, asset forfeiture, and collateral consequences for immigration, professional licensing, and housing.
How We Respond
We challenge the legality of searches, the reliability of informants, the chain of custody of evidence, and the sufficiency of the state's proof. Many drug cases begin with a constitutional violation (an unlawful stop, search, or seizure) that can lead to suppression of evidence and dismissal of charges.
What To Do Right Now
Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not consent to searches. Do not discuss the case with anyone in custody. Contact a defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement. Even if you believe cooperation will help, it rarely does without an attorney present.
Common questions about drug crimes.
Minnesota classifies drug offenses in five degrees. First-degree offenses (largest quantities) carry up to 30 years in prison; a sale of certain drugs in a school zone is a second-degree offense. Fifth-degree offenses (small possession) are typically felonies carrying up to 5 years, but a first possession of less than 0.25 grams (0.05 grams of heroin) is a gross misdemeanor. The degree depends on the type of controlled substance, the quantity, and whether the charge involves sale or possession.
Yes. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights (for example, by conducting a search without a warrant or valid exception), the evidence obtained may be suppressed. If the suppressed evidence is the foundation of the state's case, the charges may be dismissed. This is one of the most powerful defenses in drug cases.
Possession means having a controlled substance for personal use. Sale means transferring or intending to transfer a controlled substance to another person. The distinction often comes down to quantity, packaging, the presence of scales or cash, and statements made by the defendant. Sale charges carry significantly higher penalties.
Yes. Minnesota has drug courts and diversion programs in many counties that allow eligible defendants to complete treatment and supervision in exchange for dismissal or reduction of charges. Eligibility depends on the offense, criminal history, and the specific county. An attorney can evaluate whether you qualify.
Facing charges? We can help.
Contact VanMeveren Law Firm for a confidential consultation.
Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.