Cocaine

Cocaine Defense in Taney County, Missouri

Facing cocaine-related charges in Taney, Stone or Christian counties, can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience. At Scrivner Law Firm, we understand the gravity of these charges and the impact they can have on your future. With years of legal experience and a commitment to personalized representation, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of Missouri’s drug laws and protect your rights every step of the way.

Understanding Cocaine-Related Charges

Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in Missouri, meaning it is considered to have a high potential for abuse and addiction. Possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of cocaine can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Depending on the circumstances, such as the amount of cocaine involved or prior criminal history, charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

Common cocaine-related charges include:

• Possession of Cocaine: Having any amount of cocaine in your possession can result in a felony charge in Missouri.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute: If law enforcement believes you intended to sell or distribute cocaine, the penalties become significantly more severe.
• Trafficking: Transporting large quantities of cocaine can lead to federal charges and mandatory minimum prison sentences.
• Paraphernalia Charges: Possession of items such as scales, baggies, or pipes associated with cocaine use or distribution may result in additional charges.

Penalties for Cocaine Offenses

Missouri’s penalties for cocaine-related offenses vary based on the amount of cocaine, the nature of the offense, and prior criminal convictions. For example:

• Simple Possession: Even a small amount can result in a Class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Distribution or Intent to Distribute: This is typically a Class C felony, carrying 3 to 10 years in prison and significant fines.
• Trafficking: Large-scale trafficking offenses can result in Class A felonies, which carry penalties of 10 years to life imprisonment.

Your Rights and Defenses

If you’ve been charged with a cocaine-related offense, it’s important to remember that you have rights. At Scrivner Law Firm, our attorney and former prosecutor, Dayrell Scrivner, explores every possible defense strategy to secure the best outcome for your case. Common defenses against cocaine charges include:

• Unlawful Search and Seizure: The Fourth Amendment protects you from illegal searches and seizures. If law enforcement violated your rights during a traffic stop, home search, or arrest, evidence against you may be suppressed.
• Lack of Possession: Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly possessed the cocaine. If the drugs were not found on your person or if their connection to you is unclear, this can weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Chain of Custody Issues: If there are discrepancies in how evidence was handled, it may be inadmissible in court.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced or induced you into committing a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, this could serve as a valid defense.
• Lack of Intent: For charges like possession with intent to distribute, the prosecution must prove intent. Without sufficient evidence, these charges may not hold.

Why Choose Scrivner Law Firm?

At Scrivner Law Firm, we pride ourselves on providing skilled, compassionate, and results-driven representation for clients facing cocaine-related charges in Taney, Stone or Christian counties. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Former Prosecutor: Dayrell Scrivner previously served as an assistant prosecutor in Stone County. 
• Local Expertise: Our deep understanding of the Missouri  judicial system and relationships with local judges and prosecutors give us a strategic advantage.
• Personalized Defense: Every case is unique, and we craft tailored defense strategies based on the specific details of your situation.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome, whether that’s dismissal, reduced charges, or minimized penalties.
• Supportive Guidance: Facing criminal charges can be stressful. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide clear guidance throughout the legal process.

Take Action Today

Cocaine-related charges can have serious consequences, but you don’t have to face them alone. The sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of building a strong defense. At Scrivner Law Firm, our Taney County Cocaine Defense lawyer is committed to standing by your side and fighting for your future.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a cocaine-related offense in Taney, Stone or Christian County, contact us today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and work toward the best possible resolution for your case.

Call Scrivner Law Firm at (417) 699-0074 or fill out our online contact form to get started.