If you or someone you know has been arrested for drug possession, do not wait a moment to speak with a legal professional at The Hanzel Law Firm. Our firm has defended individuals who have been faced with all types of drug-related offenses throughout and the surrounding area. Our firm has worked hard to develop a strong reputation in the legal field. We do not just look for easy plea deals; rather, we work hard to protect the rights of people whose freedoms are on the line. Speak with us by calling (843) 202-4714. We can defend your future and freedom.
Were You or a Loved One Arrested for
Drug Possession?
The Hanzel Law Firm is the firm to call when you’ve had a run-in with the law. Contact our drug defense attorneys now!
Get a Free ConsultationDrug Possession Defense in
A Local Firm that Isn’t Afraid to Fight for Your Rights
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Michael B. Hanzel & Lauren Hanzel
Former JAGs Providing Legal Counsel
If you are facing criminal charges, such as sexual assault, drugs, DUI, or even attempted murder, having experienced and knowledgeable legal counsel can be vital. As accomplished military crimes attorneys, The Hanzel Law Firm can provide you with representation to help you gain confidence throughout the legal process.
Both of our lawyers are military veterans and understand how important your career is to your livelihood. They have now turned their attention to defending our service members with skilled legal strategies. Being former JAGs has allowed them to gain unique knowledge into how many military prosecutors develop their arguments. We believe that someone who is willing to sacrifice so much for our country has already done enough fighting. Our legal team is focused on providing our clients with tougher than tough representation.
Our Case Results
Results While on Active Duty
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Charges Dismissed
All charges dismissed for an officer falsely accused of sexual assault, rape, conduct unbecoming, and fraternization. Overcame unlawful command influence of powerful Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and went toe-to-toe with the high-powered Washington DC law firm representing the complaining witness. Ultimately, won a motion striking down the Article 32 rules put out by the Secretary of the Navy himself, and got the case dismissed on the eve of trial through our own investigation that proved the complaining witness had lied. Then won a unanimous 3-0 no basis vote at the Board of Inquiry, fully exonerating this officer client.
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Drop Of Administrative board
In a senior officer case, persuaded NOAA to completely drop an administrative board against a ship Commanding Officer accused of breaking environmental regulations.
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Case Won
Represented a Navy Commander at a BOI where he was accused of abusive sexual contact and sexual harassment by three separate women and won a no basis.
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Case Won
Won a high-profile rape trial for a Navy SEAL accused of violent rape, aggravated assault and numerous other crimes. Was brought onto this case to salvage it from counsel who were floundering, and succeeded in getting client acquitted of all serious charges. The complaining witness was discredited, and he was only convicted of two minor charges based on his own statements, one of which was overturned later on appeal and the other of which is pending appeal.
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Honorable Discharge
Won an honorable discharge for a Navy SEAL who was jailed for months by the state of Virginia after a drunken bar fight in which he severely injured a civilian.
Put The Hanzel Law Firm in Your Corner
You Fought for Our Rights. Allow Us to Protect Yours.
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Our Attorneys Have a Proven Track Record as US Navy JAGs
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We Know the Criminal Justice System Inside & Out
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We're Committed to Fighting for Your Constitutional Rights
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Our Team Provides Zealous & Ethical Legal Advocacy
We're Prepared to Defend Your Freedom Against an Unfair Justice System - Call Now!
Penalties You Could Face
If you or someone you love has been arrested for drug possession, your immediate action will be necessary. Prosecutors are notorious for aggressively pursuing convictions with drug-related offenses. This means that police officers, investigators, and other entities powered by the State will be utilizing every resource to bring down the power of the law on offenders.
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Time in prison or jail
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Large fines to pay
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Loss of your right to carry a firearm
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Forfeiture of assets
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Permanent criminal record
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Immigration consequences
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Marijuana
PossessionEven first-time offenders can be facing serious penalties, including things like probation, community service, fines, or even a jail sentence.
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Cocaine
PossessionMost cocaine possession charges often involve simple or constructive possession. The penalties associated with these charges are incredibly serious.
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Heroin
PossessionHeroin possession cases can be tried either as a state or a federal offense. The resulting penalties will be based on the degree of the offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Answers? We Can Help.
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Questions
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What are my rights after an arrest?
Answer
We believe that knowledge can be the strongest defense. If you have been arrested, know that you have the right to remain silent and you have the right to request an attorney. Both of these things (also known as your Miranda Rights) ultimately protect your 5th Amendment Right to avoid self-incrimination.
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I think my rights were violated. Now what?
Answer
Though most police officers adhere strictly to search and seizure laws, unfortunately, overreaching policing practices could end up violating your rights during an arrest. Whether you think your rights were violated during a traffic stop or during a search, if you think you were arrested wrongfully, or were not read your Miranda Warnings, speak with us immediately. We could use this information to the advantage of your defense strategy.
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Do certain crimes have more serious penalties?
Answer
Yes. Like any other type of criminal charge, drug crimes can be categorized in multiple ways, including misdemeanors, felonies, and federal crimes. Typically, misdemeanor drug crimes will have lesser penalties, while felony and federal drug crime cases could have more severe penalties. No matter what type of charge you face, it will be crucial to work with a defense lawyer who understands how to protect you.
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What kind of penalties am I facing?
Answer
Because every case is handled on an individual basis and must be assessed with the unique circumstances involved, it is hard to determine the exact penalties associated with a drug crime. Consequences could include jail or prison time, court fees, drug treatment programs, probation, community service, or more.
What Factors Are Taken Into Consideration During Sentencing?
- The type of drugs and narcotics involved
- The quantity of drugs and narcotics
- Nature and variety of prior criminal convictions
- Overall criminal history of the defendant charged
- Whether the defendant is curently on probation
- The actual or potential harm to the public
- The financial benefit to the defendant
- The defendant's age
- The defendant's own dependence on drugs or narcotics
- The defendant's psychiatric history
- Evidence of rehabilitation