Law Library Articles
Top 10 Drug Crime Articles in the LegalMatch Law Library
Despite the rampant drug abuse in America and the celebration of gangsters and drug lords in the media, the United States enforces some of the most severe drug laws in the world. As a result, the police should never be bored and prison wardens can enjoy endless job security. This also means that, as a good American, at some point in your life you may need to seek legal advice concerning your little habit of chemical indulgence.
To begin your review of laws concerning the illegal use of drugs, here are the new Top 10 Drug Crime Articles from the LegalMatch Law Library:
1. Possession of a Controlled Substance While Armed
When drugs and firearms mix, penalties often skyrocket. This article explains how prosecutors generally prove you were armed while possessing controlled substances, the sentences that may result, and possible defenses if you had a weapon but did not knowingly keep drugs on you or your property.
2. Drug Activity and Rental Property
Owning or managing a rental property does not shield you from liability if tenants are using or distributing illegal drugs. Learn about local “drug house” laws, the steps landlords should take when they suspect illegal activity, and how inaction can lead to severe civil and criminal consequences.
3. Constructive Possession of a Controlled Substance: Those Aren’t Mine!
A person can still be charged with drug possession even if the controlled substance was not literally in their pocket. This article breaks down what “constructive possession” means, how prosecutors prove knowledge and control, and why your proximity to hidden drugs could land you in legal hot water.
4. What Is Possession of a Controlled Substance?
Whether it is street narcotics or improperly prescribed medication, being caught with a controlled substance can result in severe fines and jail time. Here, you can find the difference between misdemeanor and felony charges, typical sentencing guidelines, and a few defenses, such as duress and valid prescriptions.
5. Methamphetamine Laws
Meth is viewed as one of the most dangerous, addictive drugs on the market. This piece clarifies meth’s Schedule II status, the steep penalties for possession or dealing, and various defenses (like entrapment or lack of knowledge) when faced with meth-related charges.
6. Drug Paraphernalia Lawyers
Having rolling papers or bongs at home is not automatically illegal, but it can become so if you use them to consume illicit drugs. This article looks into how paraphernalia is defined, the fine line between lawful items and contraband, and what you might face in fines or jail time.
7. Police Canine Sniffs During Traffic Stops
An officer’s K-9 partner can alert them to hidden narcotics and quickly escalate a simple traffic infraction into a drug bust. Read this to learn how courts limit roadside dog sniffs so that your rights against unreasonable search and seizure are not violated.
8. Nitrous Oxide
Although widely used in medicine and even cooking, “laughing gas” can be abused for recreational highs. Laws vary by jurisdiction, but many states ban possessing or distributing nitrous oxide for non-legitimate reasons. Find out the potential fines, felony thresholds, and what to do if you are charged.
9. Smoking Devices and Drug Paraphernalia
Pipes, one-hitters, bongs—most are legal until drug residue or intent to use for illegal consumption is demonstrated. This article explains how some items become contraband under certain contexts, typical sentences for “para” charges, and whether a court might accept an alternative sentence like probation.
10. Pre-Natal Substance Abuse Lawyers
Women who use drugs while pregnant can face charges for child endangerment or abuse, depending on the laws of their state. This article covers how and why mothers might be charged, possible penalties (including termination of parental rights), and the scattered legal landscape around fetal drug exposure.
If you suspect you may need assistance with any drug crime issue, whether it is possession, paraphernalia, or allegations of dealing, do not hesitate to consult an experienced drug crime attorney. Skilled legal counsel can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and mount defenses to achieve the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
