Cocaine is illegal across the United States, but state laws determine the legal consequences of being found guilty of possessing cocaine. Those accused of possessing cocaine in Missouri could face serious legal consequences that could change the course of their entire life. This is why those accused should take action to aggressively defend themselves.
If you have been accused of possessing cocaine in Missouri, start by gaining a strong understanding of Missouri law, and learning about the possible defense options for you.
Missouri Cocaine Possession Laws
Being found to be in the possession of cocaine in Missouri will lead to a Class C felony if you have no prior convictions. This will lead to a minimum mandatory one-year term. If you are a repeat offender, you may face more serious consequences.
Those found in possession of cocaine face jail time as standard, but first-time offenders may be eligible for probation upon the completion of a drug treatment program.
Possible Defenses to Cocaine Possession
The way that you choose to defend yourself will reflect the circumstances of your case. You may be able to argue that you were the victim of an unlawful search and seizure. If this was the case, it means that your rights under the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution were breached, and charges may be dismissed.
If cocaine is found in your bag, car or home, this does not necessarily mean that the illegal drugs belong to you. They may have been planted, or they may belong to a friend or acquaintance. If you had no knowledge of the existence of cocaine on your property, it can be possible to defend yourself by arguing that the drugs do not belong to you.
You may alternatively be able to prove that the substance found was not cocaine. A white powder could be any type of substance and may be legal. Before you can face cocaine possession charges, the substance found must be verified by crime lab analysis.
If you have been accused of cocaine possession in Missouri, take swift action to defend yourself. By doing so, you may be able to have charges dismissed completely.