Understanding Fentanyl Charges

Fentanyl Injection

Fentanyl was first approved for medicinal use in 1968. By 2015, it was regarded as the most commonly used synthetic opioid in medicine. Although it has been used successfully to alleviate pain, it also became a major component of the opioid crisis. Due to abuse of the drug, lawmakers have cracked down on the illegal possession and distribution of Fentanyl. Possession of even small amounts of the drug can lead to a jail sentence.

If you or someone you know was charged with illegal possession or distribution of Fentanyl, The Lebedevitch Law Firm, LLC, can help. Stephen Lebedevitch is a Connecticut drug crime defense attorney with extensive experience representing people accused of drug crimes. He has earned a reputation as a fearless and tenacious defender of the accused who knows how to get results. Contact our law office today to put his experience and expertise to work for you.

Fentanyl and the Opioid Crisis

Fentanyl is among the most potent synthetic opioid drugs. Its potential for addiction is 50 times that of heroin, and 100 times more than morphine. It is classified as a Schedule II narcotic because it has an accepted medical use but a high potential for abuse.

Many people begin using Fentanyl after receiving a prescription for a pain-relieving opioid. Once a patient builds a tolerance to the painkilling effects of the drug, some patients overuse Fentanyl and become addicted. When their doctor cuts them off, some turn to illegal methods to acquire the drugs they need.

Possession of Fentanyl without a valid prescription is a criminal offense and can lead to arrest, prosecution, and even jail time.

Understanding Fentanyl Charges

Possession of Fentanyl without a valid prescription is a crime. As with other Connecticut drug crimes, the severity of the charges and penalties you could face will vary depending on the amount of the drug in your possession and whether this is your first or a subsequent offense.

Depending on the amount of the drug in your possession, you could be charged with drug trafficking, a more serious crime that carries even harsher penalties.

How a Connecticut Drug Crime Lawyer Can Help with Fentanyl Charges

Connecticut drug laws can be complicated, and defending against Fentanyl charges presents unique challenges. Stephen Lebedevitch is an experienced drug crime defense lawyer with an in-depth understanding of Connecticut drug laws. He can evaluate your situation and the charges against you and prepare a defense to help you achieve an optimal outcome.

Because Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid, the penalties for possession or distribution of Fentanyl are severe. The Lebedevitch Law Firm can advocate on your behalf to seek reduced charges, a less severe sentence, or an alternative punishment.

During the arrest and subsequent legal process, protecting your rights is critical. Attorney Lebedevitch can ensure you are treated fairly and respectfully, that no unlawfully obtained evidence is used against you, and that you are given the right to defend yourself.

At The Lebedevitch Law Firm, we know that criminal charges are a scary, frustrating, and emotionally traumatic experience. We strive not only to provide expert legal advice, but also to offer strategic and emotional guidance throughout the legal process.

Defending Against Charges of Illegal Possession of Fentanyl

Like other drug crimes, defending against possession or distribution of Fentanyl requires a thoughtful, multi-faceted approach. Many drug crime defenses address the legality of searches and seizures, whether the defendant was in possession of the drug, and problems with lab tests.

A sound drug crime defense strategy will also seek reduced charges or a less severe sentence. Evidence of addiction and addiction treatment can be used to argue for a less severe punishment or enrollment in a drug treatment program.

Drug Dependent Defendants

When a defendant is charged with a second or subsequent drug offense, Connecticut law requires that the defendant undergo an evaluation for drug dependency. Using the results of the evaluation, the court will assess whether you are a “drug-dependent person.” If so, the court may suspend your criminal prosecution and order you to undergo treatment for substance abuse instead.

Facing Fentanyl Charges in Connecticut? The Lebeditch Law Firm Can Help.

The Lebedevitch Law Firm is based in Connecticut and represents people facing Fentanyl charges in Fairfield and New Haven counties.

Contact our law office today to schedule a free, confidential appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.

Categories: Drug Charges