When you face drug charges the legal consequences of your crime can be significantly influenced by a variety of factors, one being your prior convictions. Having a criminal history can exacerbate the penalties you are given and result in more dire consequences. It is important to understand how having prior convictions can impact your current drug charges to allow you to prepare for the complex legal process ahead. Acquire the services of a New City drug possession crime defense attorney for skilled advice and representation during your drug case.
Most crimes have varying penalties and repercussions depending on the degree of crime and whether it is an individual’s first or subsequent offense. Drug charges are no different. First offenders are typically granted a more lenient sentence as they have no criminal history and there is no precedent of this behavior being normal for them. However, if you are facing drug charges and have prior convictions of the same or related crime, it will influence the outcome of your case.
One of the most significant impacts a prior conviction will have on your current drug charges is
the potential for enhanced penalties. Many jurisdictions have guidelines for sentencing that must take into account a defendant’s criminal history when determining what the consequences will be. Second or repeat offenders tend to face longer prison sentences, increased fines, or mandatory minimum sentences.
A prior conviction can also impact your options in terms of defensive strategies. Your defense attorney will have to consider your history when building your case. Having a previous offense of a similar crime can make it more difficult to negotiate a plea bargain or argue for a reduction of your charges. The prosecution will be much less likely to agree to requests or offer a favorable deal due to your criminal history
Your prior convictions generally paint you in a bad light during your case. A judge or jury will likely see you as more of a threat to the public or less likely to benefit from rehabilitation or drug education courses. The increase in penalties and repercussions for repeat offenders is designed to deter individuals from committing the same or a similar crime after their first conviction. It punishes those who decide to continue participating in illegal behavior despite the charges they have faced in the past and discourages others from going down the same path.
If you are facing drug charges you need the help of an experienced attorney, especially when you have prior convictions. Reach out to a skilled lawyer to discuss your legal options and begin formulating an effective defense today.
© 2024 The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway. All rights reserved.
