How to Find Information on the Penalty for Drug Dealing in Arizona

The laws and penalties for dealing drugs in Arizona vary, but anyone who’s facing charges in that state should learn them. Follow these steps to familiarize yourself with Arizona's drug laws.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Legal services
• Arizona state penal code

Know the Facts

1. Determine the seriousness of your offense. The penalties for dealing drugs vary, and the differences usually depend on the amount of drugs in your possession, purpose of possession and the classification of the drug under Arizona law.
2. Be aware that charges of manufacturing, selling and producing illegal drugs are more serious than simple possession.
3. Locate the Arizona penal code for the state's specific penalties for dealing drugs.
4. Hire a criminal defense lawyer. The Find Law Web site has a comprehensive search feature for locating attorneys (see Resources below).
5. Visit your local Legal Aid office. Legal Aid provides free legal services to low-income persons.

Prepare Your Case

6. Arrive on time to any court proceedings. Late arrivals often antagonize the judge, which will not sway things in your favor.
7. Consider entering a drug rehabilitation program or counseling group. This shows the judge you are serious about reforming your behavior and may help to reduce your penalty.
8. Plan your route to the courthouse. Map directions ahead of time to prevent getting lost, and locate parking options in advance.
9. You can appeal if you are not satisfied with the outcome of your trial. If you cannot afford a lawyer, ou have the right to a government-appointed attorney for your first appeal. However, you must pay your own legal fees for subsequent appeals.
10. Prepare the evidence with your attorney. If you feel you have been wrongly accused, be ready to produce proof and witnesses on your behalf.

Tips & Warnings

• Dealing drugs compromises your record. Employers have access to your arrest record and may not hire convicted or arrested applicants if they have justification.