Drug Crimes
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Drug Crime Defense Lawyer in Lake, Porter and Jasper County, Indiana
A drug charge can affect your job, your housing, your schooling and your future. Vollmer Law Group defends people charged with drug crimes across Northwest Indiana, from marijuana possession to felony dealing charges. Most cases are handled for a flat fee for the pre-trial phase, so you know the cost up front.
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Common drug charges in Indiana
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Possession of marijuana: usually a misdemeanor. A larger amount or a prior drug conviction can raise the charge.
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Possession of paraphernalia (pipes, scales, syringes and similar items): usually a misdemeanor.
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Possession of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl or other narcotic drugs: usually a felony, starting at Level 6. The level goes up with the amount and other circumstances.
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Possession of other controlled substances, including many prescription pills without a valid prescription: often a misdemeanor, but a prior conviction can make it a felony.
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Dealing or possession with intent to deliver: a more serious felony. The level depends on the drug, the amount and the circumstances.
What happens after a drug arrest
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Initial hearing: the judge reads the charges, sets bond conditions and schedules the next court date.
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Evidence: we get the police reports, lab results, body camera video and search records.
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The stop and the search: we review how police stopped you and searched you, your car or your home. If a search broke the rules, the evidence may be kept out of the case.
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Options: depending on the case, that can mean a dismissal, a reduced charge, a diversion or treatment program, or a plea agreement.
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Trial: if the case does not resolve, it is set for trial.
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Diversion, drug court and other programs
Depending on the county, the charge and your record, you may be eligible for pretrial diversion, a drug court, or another program. Completing some of these programs can lead to a dismissal or a reduced charge. The rules differ from county to county, so we check what is available in your court.
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What it costs
Criminal cases are handled for a flat fee for the pre-trial phase, based on the most serious charge:
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Misdemeanors: $1,500 (Class C), $2,500 (Class B), $3,500 (Class A).
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Felonies: $6,500 (Level 6), $8,000 (Level 5), $9,500 (Level 4), $12,500 (Level 3). Level 1 and 2 felonies are quoted after case review.
If you have more than one charge in the same county and courtroom, the full fee applies to the most serious charge and each additional charge is 50% off. See our Fee Schedule for details.
Possession of marijuana may qualify for Class C pricing.
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Common questions
Should I talk to the police about my drug charge?
You have the right to stay silent and the right to a lawyer. Politely tell officers you want to speak with a lawyer before answering questions.
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Can a drug charge be dismissed?
Sometimes. Charges can be dismissed or reduced because of problems with the stop or search, weak lab evidence, or completion of a diversion program. Every case is different, and no lawyer can promise a result.
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Is marijuana legal in Indiana?
No. Marijuana is not legal for recreational use in Indiana, even if it was bought legally in Michigan or Illinois.
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Will a drug conviction stay on my record?
A conviction stays on your record unless it is expunged. Many drug convictions can be expunged after a waiting period.
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Where do you handle drug cases?
We handle cases in Lake, Porter and Jasper County and across Northwest Indiana, from our office in Merrillville.
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Talk to us about your case
Call (219) 587-5641 or send a message below. Tell us briefly what happened and which county your case is in, and a staff member will call you back as soon as possible during office hours.