An Aggressive Defense For Any Drug Charge
Attorney has been defending individuals charged with drug crimes for over 40 years. He has been particularly busy in federal courts representing individuals charged with possession and distribution of methamphetamine, Oxycodone, cocaine and marijuana (which appears to be making a comeback). Especially with its legalization in Colorado, he has been seeing more drug trafficking cases involving transporting of marijuana across state lines into Kansas. He is particularly aggressive when it comes to fighting federal and state drug charges because the manner in which such charges are brought can potentially violate the fourth amendment.
Examining All Of The Evidence
While the manners in which drug arrests take place are sometimes questionable, many individuals facing arrest are unaware of the way such arrests can be challenged in court. As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, Carl understands the fourth amendment implications of an improper search and seizure and knows how to get evidence from such searches suppressed. He has successfully defended individuals charged with drug crimes based on searches of their cars or homes, whose lockers were improperly searched at work, or where evidence was discovered when police officers used dogs to detect the presence of drugs.
also understands the processes that FBI agents and police officers use when filling out reports. He understands what these reports can mean and if anything is out of the ordinary when it comes to an arrest.
It’s important to challenge this evidence for several reasons. Especially in federal court, the kinds and amounts of drugs allegedly discovered can result in longer prison sentences. Factors like possession of drugs in a school zone or a weapon being present in a vehicle when drugs are discovered could result in enhanced charges. It could change a misdemeanor into a felony. And it could tarnish your reputation by placing a permanent mark on your criminal record.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes In Kansas
A drug allegation can create uncertainty and stress, especially when you are unsure how the legal process may unfold. The following information addresses common questions about Kansas drug laws.
Is it illegal to bring marijuana from Colorado into Kansas?
Yes. Transporting marijuana into Kansas is against the law, even if it was purchased legally in Colorado. Kansas classifies all nonmedical marijuana as a controlled substance. Possessing any amount can lead to criminal charges, and penalties increase when the substance crosses state lines.
Law enforcement may also treat the act as evidence of intent to distribute if the quantity is significant. These rules apply regardless of where the marijuana originated.
Can the police search my vehicle without a warrant in Kansas?
It depends. Officers are sometimes allowed to search without a warrant, but only when specific legal exceptions apply. Kansas follows the federal automobile exception, which allows a search when officers have probable cause to believe the vehicle contains evidence of a crime.
A search may also occur if you give voluntary consent or if officers conduct an inventory search after impoundment. Courts review these situations carefully because the legality of a search often determines whether evidence can be used in court.
Can a drug charge be reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor in Kansas?
Yes, in certain circumstances reduction is possible, but it depends on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. Prosecutors sometimes agree to amend charges during negotiations when the evidence supports a lesser offense.
Kansas also uses a sentencing grid that considers prior convictions, which can influence how a charge is handled. Additionally, diversion programs may be available for eligible first‑time offenders, and successful completion can prevent a conviction.
What’s the difference between state and federal drug charges?
State drug charges involve violations of Kansas law, while federal charges apply when conduct triggers federal jurisdiction. Cases at the federal level often involve large drug quantities, interstate activity or investigations led by federal agencies. Penalties incurred through the federal court can be more severe than the outcome of a local case because strict federal sentencing guidelines may apply.
It may seem unimportant to your defense, but knowing which charges apply can help you and your lawyer prepare for the appropriate venue effectively.
Contact An Experienced Drug Crimes Attorney
You can contact attorney at his Olathe, Kansas, office by calling 913-712-0459.