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Dorie Maryan

Serious Defense For Serious Charges

An Experienced Drug Crime Lawyer In Bargersville

Indiana drug crime is on the rise and drug charges and convictions can have serious consequences. Attorney Dorie Maryan is a Bargersville drug crime lawyer who represents clients facing criminal drug charges in Bargersville, Greenwood and Johnson County. With decades of trial experience, she founded Maryan Uliana & Smith, an Association of Attorneys, to defend individuals in Indiana who are accused of crimes.

Indiana Drug Crimes And Criminal Charges

The state of Indiana classifies different drug crimes based on the type of illegal substance, its potential addictive qualities and its harmfulness, ranging in severity from misdemeanors to felonies. Criminal drug charges in Indiana can include:

  • Possessing an illegal or controlled substance: This is a standard “possession” charge, that can include holding illicit substances or prescription drugs without a prescription.
  • Selling an illegal or controlled substance: This is for any intended or actual sale of a controlled substance. The act of selling it is not required, as a possession of a considerable amount can be assumed as “intent” to sell.
  • Manufacturing an illegal or controlled substance: The creation or cultivation of illicit substances. Typically these would be organized production efforts, often with links to a larger criminal organization.
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia: Physical possession of illegal substance is not the only way to face a charge. You may also see charges if you are found to possess manufacturing needs or selling needs, such as scales, chemistry equipment and baggies.

In the state of Indiana, it is a crime to possess any type of illegal drug. Any sort of drug trafficking is also a crime, but the type of substance can change the severity of the crime. For example:

  • Marijuana: Is not a scheduled drug, and you can possession of less than 30 grams can be considered a class b misdemeanor.
  • Cocaine/heroin: Schedule 1 drugs which are considered the most dangerous and most addictive. It has a stepped possession penalty, ranging from a level 6 to a level 3 felony depending on the amount.
  • Methamphetamines: A schedule 2 drug, with unique sentencing that match what you would see with cocaine and schedule 1 drugs.
  • Prescription drugs: These can be classified as a schedule 5 drug and pursued as a class a misdemeanor.

Trafficking charges can include manufacturing or financing the manufacturing of illegal substances or possessing large amounts of illegal substances with the intent to distribute that illegal substance.

Aggravated Drug Crimes In Indiana

If aggravating factors are involved, prosecutors can file more serious charges to account for the aggravating factors. Aggravating factors can include:

  • Prior convictions for previous drug crimes
  • Commission of the offense with violence, including the use of a weapon or firearm
  • Commission of the offense within the vicinity of a school or public park
  • Commission of the offense in the presence of a child

In addition, if an overdose death occurs and you can be connected to involvement through a drug crime, prosecutors may be able to file homicide charges against you.

Indiana Drug Charges FAQs

The following questions and answers address some of the most common concerns attorney Maryan speaks to during consultation sessions.

What are the penalties for drug possession in Indiana?

The penalties for drug possession depend on the type of substance involved, the amount allegedly possessed and whether the person has prior criminal convictions. For instance, possession of under 30 grams of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. On the other hand, dealing 10 grams of methamphetamine is a level 2 felony that can lead to up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Can drug charges be dismissed in Indiana?

Yes, drug charges can be dismissed because of constitutional violations, including unlawful searches and seizures. Also, if the prosecution lacks the necessary evidence, your lawyer may file a Motion to Dismiss.

Certain low-level offenses may qualify for pretrial diversion programs that allow charges to be dismissed after successful completion of court-ordered conditions.

Is drug possession a felony in Indiana?

Drug possession in Indiana can be a felony depending on the substance involved and the amount allegedly possessed. For example, possession of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl or methamphetamine can be charged as a felony.

What happens after a drug arrest in Indianapolis?

Following a drug arrest in Indianapolis, the accused person is transported to the Marion County Arrestee Processing Center for standard booking. There, law enforcement records your personal details, and your fingerprints are collected to run through the Indiana Data and Communications System (IDACS) and the FBI. After processing, you are placed in a holding cell and brought before a judge for an initial hearing within 48 to 72 hours. Under Indiana law, you have the constitutional right to hire a lawyer before making any statements.

Can I go to jail for a first-time drug offense?

Yes, a first-time drug offense can result in jail time under Indiana law. The actual outcome depends on the facts of the case, your criminal history and the options available. As a first-time offender, you may be eligible for alternatives to incarceration such as diversion programs. Attorney Maryan will work diligently to help you pursue any available alternatives to jail and preserve your records.

Facing Drug Charges? Hire An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney.

Attorney Maryan offers initial consultations by appointment. To schedule a consultation appointment, call the office at 317-732-4055 or send an inquiry through the online form.