Oregon law provides very serious penalties for possession of controlled substances (PCS) that can have an impact for the rest of your life. If you are arrested on PCS charges, having an experienced lawyer on your side who will take the time to investigate your case can make all the difference.

The circumstances of every case are unique, so it is important that your lawyer not only knows the law, but will also work to uncover the facts that you may lead to lower penalties or, in some cases, complete dismissal of the charges. Even where dismissal is not possible, it may be possible to reduce the charges so that they can later be expunged from your record.

Oregon law imposes penalties based on the specific drug possessed, generally applying the federal schedule of controlled substances. For example, unlawful possession of heroin (a schedule I drug) is a Class B Felony (up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 fine), while unlawful possession of cocaine, methamphetamine, or oxycodone (schedule II drugs) is a Class C Felony (up to 5 years in prison and $125,000 fine). Marijuana has been “decriminalized” in Oregon, but unlawful possession of more than 4 ounces of marijuana is still a Class C felony.

Depending on the facts of your case, there may be defenses that can lead to complete dismissal of the charges, but it often requires an experienced lawyer who carefully investigates the facts to find these opportunities. For example, if your rights were violated during the arrest, your attorney may be able to exclude evidence from court that will lead to dismissal. More often, knowledge of the facts of your case can help to negotiate a plea bargain that will minimize the penalties. Sometimes, by listening to the defendant’s story, an attorney may be able to suggest treatment for addiction that will be helpful in securing lower penalties.

As these scenarios suggest, the facts of your specific case can be very important to developing the best defense. There are many experienced criminal defense attorneys, but a lawyer who listens to your story and investigates the facts may make the difference between lifelong consequences and reduced penalties that can be expunged or even complete dismissal of the charges.

Brett Hall has practiced law in Portland for over a decade, handling many PCS cases during that time. If you choose to have Brett represent you, he will take the time listen to you and understand your story, then investigate further to uncover facts that can help in your defense. If it is appropriate to negotiate a plea bargain, Brett is committed to ensuring you are fully informed of what you are being offered before you make a decision. Brett understands that being a defendant on PCS charges can be confusing and create great anxiety. If you choose to have Hall Law represent you, Brett will answer your questions and guide you through the process. His goal is to provide you the best defense available – a defense that is tailored to your case.