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OHIO

Drug Possession & Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney

Drug charges can vary greatly in Ohio — from misdemeanors that could result in a small fine to felonies, some of which could carry a sentence up to 10 years in prison.

The severity of the charge and the resulting penalty depends on a variety of factors, including the type of drug found, how much of the drug was found, prior criminal conduct, and the circumstances of the arrest. At Hiltner Trial Lawyers, our attorneys have successfully defended people charged with drug crimes of all types.

Call 330-475-3164 for a free consultation

“I was at a low point in my life and in need of representation for drug-related charges and a potential probation violation. Max Hiltner didn't just keep me out of jail, he got the charges dropped! This allowed me to seek the help I needed, and I was able to turn things around. From then on, Max is the only attorney I will recommend.”

- John D.

Drug Possession and Trafficking Cases in Ohio

There are 10 levels of drug crimes in Ohio, ranging from a minor misdemeanor to a first degree felony.

But there are different types of charges, as well. The two most common types of charges are:

1

Drug trafficking,

which means that you were allegedly caught with drugs that you allegedly intend to sell
2

Drug possession,

which means that you were allegedly caught with drugs on your person or in your belongings

While possession is a misdemeanor, drug trafficking is a felony charge with serious consequences.

The penalties connected with the various drug charges in Ohio include:
  • Minor misdemeanor: $150 fine and no jail time
  • Misdemeanor of the fourth degree: $250 fine and 30 days in jail
  • Misdemeanor of the third degree: $500 fine and 60 days in jail
  • Misdemeanor of the second degree: $750 fine and 90 days in jail
  • Misdemeanor of the first degree: $1,000 fine and up to 180 days in jail
  • Felony of the fifth degree: $2,500 fine and 6 to 12 months in prison
  • Felony of the fourth degree: $5,000 fine and 6 to 18 months in prison
  • Felony of the third degree: between $5,000 and $10,000 fine and 1 to 5 years in prison
  • Felony of the second degree: between $7,500 and $15,000 fine and 2 to 8 years in prison
  • Felony of the first degree: between $10,000 and $20,000 fine and 3 to 11 years in prison

Why Choose Hiltner Trial Lawyers for your Defense

Max Hiltner knows the justice system has serious flaws. That’s why he spends every day fighting to keep good people out of prison. He has successfully defended many people accused of drug crimes.

Here are some cases he’s tried in recent years:

A young woman was charged with two felony counts of aggravated possession of drugs. A preliminary hearing was scheduled to determine whether there was enough evidence to send to the grand jury. Hiltner and his client were fully prepared for the hearing, but instead of proceeding with the hearing, the State dismissed all of the charges and all evidence of the arrest was sealed.

A young man was charged with tampering with evidence, a felony of the third degree, and possession of cocaine — a felony of the fifth degree. The man was facing up to a total of 4 years in prison. Hiltner was able to get the tampering with evidence charge dismissed and the felony possession of cocaine reduced to a misdemeanor attempt. The young man was sentenced to community control with no time in jail or prison.

Hiltner Law was hired after a 21 year old man with no criminal record was arrested for drug trafficking in the vicinity of a juvenile after a package containing drugs arrived at his house from California. This charge is a 2nd degree felony carrying a minimum sentence of 3 years in prison. After unsealing the search warrant affidavit and exposing a critical flaw in the search of the package and filing a motion to suppress, our client was permitted to enter into the court’s drug diversion program. If the client successfully completes all drug testing requirements for one year, all charges against him will be dismissed and he will have no criminal record whatsoever.

A young man was the passenger in another man’s car. The driver of the car stopped at a home to pick up a package. Moments later the DEA and local law enforcement arrested the men and charged them with 1st degree felony aggravated drug trafficking. The package contained 16 pounds of meth from California. The young passenger, with no criminal record whatsoever, if convicted, would have to serve a mandatory 11 years in state prison. After our team at Hiltner Law unsealed the search warrant affidavits, we were able to file a detailed motion to suppress that exposed several flaws in the State’s case and showed a complete lack of any evidence against our client. All charges against our client were dismissed by the State.

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Contact Hiltner Trial Lawyers to secure your defense today

Max Hiltner has built a multi-state law practice focusing solely on criminal defense. During this time, he’s successfully defended and tried cases of all kinds, including drug-related cases. His dedication to his clients and his success in the courtroom has gained him a reputation as one of the most respected trial lawyers in Northeast Ohio. If you need a defense attorney, contact Max today.
Call 330-475-3164 for a free consultation

“Max Hiltner is dynamite in the courtroom by connecting with the jury, recalling facts and cultivating good relationships with the opponents and presiding judge. He is professional, dedicated, honest and cares about the livelihood of his clients and their families. He excels in negotiating and hiring experts necessary for a well rounded defense. Max was one of my lawyers that stood between me and a life sentence. Without him on my team I would still be in prison. He will fight for you.”

- Colleen O.

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