If you've been arrested for drug possession in Dover, MA, you could be facing severe consequences like jail time, steep fines, and a lasting criminal record. Whether the charge involves heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, or marijuana, you need a robust defense to safeguard your rights.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, our skilled Dover drug possession lawyers have successfully defended clients by challenging police tactics, negotiating plea agreements, and achieving case dismissals.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top Dover criminal defense attorney.
Understanding Massachusetts Drug Possession Laws
Under MGL Chapter 94C, Massachusetts categorizes controlled substances into five classes (AβE) based on their potential for abuse. Possessing any illegal drug or prescription medication without a valid prescription can lead to criminal charges.
Common Drug Possession Offenses in Dover
β Heroin, fentanyl, or other opioids β Possession of Class A substances
β Cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, or Adderall β Class B drug possession charges
β Marijuana over legal limits β Exceeding Massachusetts' possession limits
β Prescription drugs without a prescription β Possession of Xanax, OxyContin, or other controlled medications
β Possession with intent to distribute β Carrying large quantities of a controlled substance
Even a small quantity of drugs can trigger a criminal charge, making it essential to enlist an experienced Dover drug defense lawyer.
Penalties for Drug Possession in Massachusetts
π΄ Class A Drug Possession (Heroin, Fentanyl, GHB, Special K)
- Up to 2 years in jail
- Fines up to $2,000
- Probation or mandatory drug treatment for first-time offenders
π΄ Class B Drug Possession (Cocaine, Meth, Adderall, MDMA)
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Diversion programs for eligible offenders
π΄ Class C Drug Possession (Xanax, Valium, LSD, Psilocybin)
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Possible probation and mandatory drug education programs
π΄ Class D Drug Possession (Marijuana Over Legal Limits, THC Extracts)
- First offense: Civil fine
- Large amounts: Criminal penalties and possible jail time
π΄ Class E Drug Possession (Certain Prescription Drugs)
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $500
- May be eligible for alternative sentencing programs
Enhanced Penalties for Possession in a School Zone
If caught with drugs within 300 feet of a school or 100 feet of a park, penalties can escalate significantly.
Statute of Limitations for Drug Possession in Massachusetts
Prosecutors must file drug possession charges within these timeframes:
- Misdemeanor drug possession: 6 years
- Felony drug possession: 10 years
If charges are filed beyond these limits, our Dover drug defense attorneys can seek an immediate dismissal.
Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges
Our seasoned Dover criminal defense attorneys employ every available legal tactic to defend your case:
β Illegal Search & Seizure β If police performed an unlawful search, evidence may be suppressed
β Lack of Possession β Drugs found in a shared space don't automatically prove ownership
β Lack of Knowledge β You didn't know drugs were in your possession
β Entrapment β If law enforcement induced you to possess drugs
β Diversion Programs β First-time offenders may avoid conviction through treatment programs
Dover District Court β Where Your Case Will Be Heard
If arrested for drug possession in Dover, your case will be processed at:
π Dedham District Court
Address: 631 High St, Dedham, MA 02026
Phone: (781) 329-1600
Hire a Dover Drug Possession Lawyer Today
A drug possession conviction can impact your employment, housing, and future prospects for years. Acting quickly improves your odds of defeating the charges.
π Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation.
Our Dover drug possession defense lawyers are prepared to stand up for you!
Contact a Dover Drug Possession Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing drug possession charges in Dover, don't delay seeking legal help. The sooner you reach out, the stronger your defense can be.
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
π¨ Facing drug possession charges in Dover? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.