Drug charges in Washington can carry serious penalties and lasting collateral consequences. But these cases are also among the most defensible, because they so often depend on a search or stop that may not have been lawful.
We scrutinize how the evidence was obtained and hold the State to its burden of proof.
Challenging the search
If police stopped you without a valid reason, searched you or your vehicle without lawful authority, or violated your constitutional rights, the evidence may be suppressed — which can lead to dismissal. We investigate the circumstances of every stop and search.
Frequently asked questions
Can drug evidence be thrown out?
Yes. If the stop or search violated your constitutional rights, a court may suppress the evidence, which often weakens or ends the State's case.
What is "possession with intent to deliver"?
It is a more serious charge than simple possession, based on factors the State argues show an intent to distribute. The defenses and penalties differ significantly, so the specific charge matters.
Ready to talk through your situation?
Reach a Schwab Law attorney in Spokane today.