Drug charges, such as possession, intent to distribute, trafficking, manufacturing and prescription forging, can lead to thousands of dollars in fines and lengthy jail terms. Thus, you need to fight if you are caught with a controlled dangerous substance (CDS).
However, despite defenses being available, some people still plead guilty to drug charges. Here are some of the reasons why:
They lack insight into their options
Drug offenses can be complicated. Thus, those accused need professional help to understand their cases and the best defenses to use. Without obtaining adequate information from a professional, one may believe they have no protection and, in turn, will plead guilty. They often do this in exchange for a reduced penalty, as they assume they lack grounds to fight the case.
A professional can help you create a solid defense that may result in the dismissal of the case. Therefore, when you are charged with a drug crime, you should find a professional sooner. Avoid talking to the police or accepting deals without guidance.
To avoid the hassle of a trial
Some people believe fighting drug charges, particularly complex ones, can take time and effort. Accordingly, they end up pleading guilty to get the case over with, especially if they’ve already spent a while in jail waiting on a trial and a plea could send them home. Fighting and spending years in jail or paying heavy fines can be more stressful than attending several court sessions.
To protect someone else from charges
One may plead guilty to a drug charge to protect someone else. For example, a parent who claims drugs belong to them after a legal house search, yet they are their child’s. Such a parent may do so to protect their child’s future.
People plead guilty to drug charges for different reasons, but it’s not a wise thing to do without fully exploring all of your legal defenses.