why would a lawyer keep pushing for continuance in intent to distribute drug charges

by Carolyne Hauck 8 min read

Attorneys often request continuances because their work on other cases has prevented them from devoting the necessary time to the case at hand. Courts usually allow some leeway in these situations, especially for court-appointed defense attorneys.

Why do prosecutors ask for a continuance?

Typical reasons advanced by prosecutors include having another trial or other court matter in progress, or when the case involves specified offenses (such as certain sexual assault or child abuse crimes). But even here, the length of the continuance will typically be short.

Can a defendant with an illness file a continuance in court?

The defendant’s or counsel’s illness is good cause for a continuance, though the court may demand proof (including medical testimony). Note that this reason does not usually extend to prosecutors (see below); they are expected to find a replacement from their office.

Why do criminal cases get dragged out?

The reasons for this approach begin with the wish to subject incarcerated pretrial defendants to as little time behind bars as possible. In addition, making defendants wait may expose them to the loss of witnesses, physical evidence, and witnesses ’ memories. Dragging out a criminal case is particularly difficult for victims.

What is the value of bringing criminal cases quickly to trial?

The value of bringing criminal cases swiftly to trial is recognized in all states and the federal system. The reasons for this approach begin with the wish to subject incarcerated pretrial defendants to as little time behind bars as possible.

How many times can a case be continued in PA?

(b) Each party may be granted one continuance by the Magisterial District Judge upon cause shown. Any such initial continuance, made at the request of either party, shall not be for more than twenty-one (21) days.

What is exculpatory evidence?

Evidence, such as a statement, tending to excuse, justify, or absolve the alleged fault or guilt of a defendant.

What does continuing a trial mean?

Definition. The suspension or postponement of a trial or court proceeding. Continuance is made on a case-by-case basis at the court's discretion. Courts balance giving the moving party enough time; the need to make the trial timely and speedy; and the interests of justice. courts.

How long can a case be continued in NC?

Notwithstanding the above rules, no criminal case shall be continued beyond 90 days from the first court date without court approval, and further; DWI cases shall not be continued in violation of N.C.G.S. 20-28.

What is the Brady Rule?

The Brady Rule, named after Brady v. Maryland, 373 U.S. 83 (1963), requires prosecutors to disclose materially exculpatory evidence in the government's possession to the defense.

What kind of evidence tends to prove a defendant's innocence?

Exculpatory evidence is evidence favorable to the defendant in a criminal trial that exonerates or tends to exonerate the defendant of guilt.

Why would a court case be postponed?

Adjournments are often called by lawyers because they have not reviewed the case files, are otherwise ill-prepared, or have a scheduling conflict. Prosecutors are reluctant to provide full information on evidence to defense lawyers, prompting the latter to request an adjournment.

What does it mean to ask for a continuance?

A continuance is a grant of additional preparation time before or during a trial. Either the prosecution or the defense can request a continuance, and sometimes even the court can order a continuance of its own accord.

Can a court case be Cancelled?

Popular Criminal Lawyers Yes police can file cancellation report but it is up to magistrate to accept that report or not. Magistrate has power to continue with the case and treat that cancellation report as Final Challan and conclude the trial of case..

How do you get your lawyer to respond?

If your lawyer still does not respond, you can send him or her a letter explaining the communication problems. If at this point you do not hear anything from your lawyer, you should consult with a legal malpractice attorney.

Can a preliminary hearing be postponed?

If a party wishes a hearing to be postponed for any reason the Employment Judge who considers the request will have to be satisfied that it is in accordance with the overriding objective to order that the hearing be postponed. referring to all other parties, where there is more than one other party in the case.

How do you write a continuance letter?

When writing a request for a continuance, include your name, the case name and number, what you are requesting and why. State the date of the currently scheduled court hearing and clearly request a new date. Give the reasons for your request.

What Is AZ Distribution?

Drug distribution, also known as drug trafficking in Arizona, is defined as the possession of drugs for sale or the transportation of drugs for sal...

What Are Arizona’s Drug Possession and Intent to Sell Laws?

You can't intentionally possess or use illicit substances in Arizona, according to state law. You'll almost certainly be prosecuted with felony dru...

What Is a Dangerous Drug in Arizona?

Possession or use of hazardous substances is classified as a Class 4 Felony under Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3407. Any form of narcotic that isn't...

What Is Possession with Intent to Distribute?

The first requirement, possession, does not need the illicit substances to be kept in a pocket or backpack. It might also imply that the medicines...

When Does Possession of Marijuana Become Intent to Distribute?

Possession of marijuana for sale is defined by the legislation as satisfying three criteria beyond a reasonable doubt: Defendant knowingly possesse...

DRUG POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE ATTORNEY IN PHOENIX, AZ

Possession with intent to distribute carries extremely harsh penalties in Arizona. Sentencing ranges vary widely depending on the type of drug, as well as its schedule. However, many of these charges come with mandatory minimum sentences. That’s why it’s important to hire a drug crimes lawyer with experience in these types of cases.

What Is AZ Distribution?

Drug distribution, also known as drug trafficking in Arizona, is defined as the possession of drugs for sale or the transportation of drugs for sale. When someone has a quantity of drugs that exceeds a certain level, it is usually thought that they intend to sell them. The following are some examples of Arizona drug threshold levels.

What Is Possession with Intent to Distribute?

The first requirement, possession, does not need the illicit substances to be kept in a pocket or backpack. It might also imply that the medicines are under one’s direction. If narcotics are discovered in your house or car, for example, you may be considered in possession.

When Does Possession of Marijuana Become Intent to Distribute?

Possession of marijuana for sale is defined by the legislation as satisfying three criteria beyond a reasonable doubt.

Defenses to Possession with Intent to Distribute

It’s critical to inquire about possible defense options when hiring an attorney to defend you in a drug possession case. There are a variety of techniques you may employ to lessen the severity of the accusations you’re facing and the fines you’ll incur. The following are some common defense techniques for drug possession with the intent to sell.

What happens if you are charged with intent to distribute a drug?

If you have been charged with intent to distribute a drug, you may be in the most important battle of your life. You will be facing severe punishments due to Nebraska law enforcement’s attempted “war on drugs.” There are a variety of different factors that can impact the severity of Lincoln intent to distribute charge penalties, including the type of drug, the location of the sale, the age of the individual receiving the drugs, and the number of prior criminal convictions. It is very important that you consult with an experienced lawyer to ensure that your rights and your future are protected. Contact Berry Law: Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a confidential consultation.

What factors can impact the penalty for a drug related charge?

Another factor that can impact the penalty for a drug-related charge is the location of the sale/arrest. Any individual charged with possession with intent to distribute in, on, or within:

What is intent to distribute in Nebraska?

Possession with Intent to distribute drugs is a severe criminal charge that can have life-altering consequences if you are convicted. Due to the attempted “war on drugs” by Nebraska law enforcement, Nebraska tends to have some of the harshest penalties for drug-related charges in the nation. Understanding Lincoln intent to distribute penalties is important. If you are facing changes, a dedicated intent to distribute attorney can help you understand the consequences and create a plan to avoid them.

What is the first item to look at when determining the severity of any drug-related charge?

Most often, the first item to look at when determining the severity of any drug-related charge is the classification of the drug (s) —known as the schedule.

Can a prior conviction lead to a sentence enhancement?

If an individual with multiple criminal charges is charged intent to distribute, they may face more serious criminal charges due to being labeled a “habitual criminal.” More specifically, an individual charged with a second or third offense intent to distribute convi ction will face more severe penalties than first-time offenders.

Informants and Drug Dealing Charges

It’s not uncommon for investigators and prosecutors to work with informants. In cases involving drug dealing, people who face serious charges of their own may be offered a reduced sentence or probation if they agree to inform on you. Unfortunately, informants don’t always have the moral scruples necessary to tell the truth.

Sentencing in Drug Dealing Charges Cases

If you are convicted for dealing drugs, the sentence you face depends on a number of factors. While the state of Kansas has guidelines relative to the amount and kind of drugs involved, judges have some discretion. As your attorney, Gary D. Stone works hard to reduce the sentence against his clients.

Penalties for Intent To Distribute Schedule I Narcotics

There’s more than one penalty for intent to distribute, which is a felony in Louisiana. It depends on the type and quantity of the drug in your possession. However, more disturbing than some of these penalties is the fact that many people are wrongfully charged with the crime.

Penalties for Intent To Distribute Schedule II Narcotics

The DEA defines Schedule II narcotics as substances with a high potential for abuse and risk of psychological or physical dependence. Schedule II narcotics include:

Penalties for Intent To Distribute Schedule III Narcotics

The DEA defines Schedule III narcotics as substances with a moderate to low potential for psychological and physical dependence. Schedule III narcotics include:

Lake Charles Drug Defense Lawyer

Don’t assume you’re out of options if you were charged with possession with intent to distribute. The Johnson Firm’s expert lawyers have had hundreds of clients’ charges reduced or dismissed, and they will defend you relentlessly for the best outcome in your case.

Why do defendants ask for continuances?

Typical Reasons Why Defendants Ask for Continuances. Judges are often asked to continue a hearing or a trial for these reasons: At the arraignment, to secure counsel. An arrestee’s first court appearance is often the arraignment, when the judge reads the charges and asks for a plea.

What happens when a defense asks for a continuance?

When that happens, the defense may ask for a continuance to locate that witness. Again, however, the defense will have to convince the court that the witness’s testimony is important and will have to show that the defense used due diligence in trying to secure the witness’s appearance in the first place.

What questions should I ask my attorney?

Questions for Your Attorney 1 I’ve waived time and need more time to prepare my case. What do I have to tell the judge to get the trial date pushed back? 2 If the prosecutor asks for a continuance and gets it, can I challenge the delay by filing a writ in the appellate court? 3 I’d like to hire new counsel because I think the one I have is not doing a good job. What do I have to tell the judge to get time for finding a new lawyer?

What happens if a defendant needs another lawyer?

If the defendant needs to find another lawyer, a court could also give the defendant a reasonable amount of time to secure a new attorney. To deal with adverse pretrial publicity. Occasionally, defendants will ask for a continuance on the grounds of prejudicial publicity.

What is the right to prepare for trial?

To prepare for trial. States typically provide defendants with a minimum amount of time between entering the plea and going to trial. But a defendant has a right to adequately prepare defense (which includes the right of counsel to prepare).

What are speedy trials?

Speedy Trial Rights and Requirements. For the reasons above, speedy trials are required by statute in most states, which set “speedy trial” windows. Defendants can give up these speedy trial protections by “waiving time,” but even when they do, continuances are explicitly disfavored. In spite of this general approach, ...

What is the first appearance of a defendant?

In spite of this general approach, both the defense and the prosecution in a criminal case (and the court, on its own motion) may ask for and obtain a continuance, beginning with the defendant’s first appearance, which is typically the arraignment (where the defendant is appraised of the charges and asked how he wishes to plead).

Laws Governing Intent to Distribute

  • It is widely known that selling or distributing drugs is illegal across the United States. This holds true in Nebraska as well. According to Nebraska Revised Statute 28-416: “Except as authorized by the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, it shall be unlawful for any person knowingly or intentionally: (a) To manufacture, distribute, deliver, dispense, or possess with intent to manufac…
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Determining The Punishment For A Conviction in Lincoln

  • As previously mentioned, a variety of factors play a part in determining the classification and ultimately the penalty of a possession with intent to distributecharge. Most often, the first item to look at when determining the severity of any drug-related charge is the classification of the drug(s)—known as the schedule.
See more on jsberrylaw.com

An Attorney Can Discuss Lincoln Intent to Distribute Penalties

  • If you have been charged with intent to distribute a drug, you may be in the most important battle of your life. You will be facing severe punishments due to Nebraska law enforcement’s attempted “war on drugs.” There are a variety of different factors that can impact the severity of Lincoln intent to distribute charge penalties, including the type ...
See more on jsberrylaw.com