The Best Drug Dealing Defense Lawyer in Indianapolis

If you are currently facing drug dealing charges in Indianapolis, you’re likely feeling quite stressed and fearful. This is understandable, especially considering that a conviction for these charges could result in up to 30 years behind bars. That said, you do not have to resign yourself to the most serious penalties under Indiana law. In fact, if you hire the right drug dealing defense lawyer in Indianapolis, you could even have the charges dismissed or significantly reduced. 

To begin working on your defense, contact the best Indianapolis drug crime attorneys at Keffer Hirschauer LLP today at 317-648-9560. Our team is led by two former deputy prosecutors who have experience handling drug dealing cases on both sides of the court room. If retained, they will strategically manage all evidentiary matters related to the case against you, while working tirelessly to protect your rights, freedoms and future.  

When it comes to drug dealing charges in Indiana, time is of the essence. Schedule your free case consultation with an experienced defense attorney today.  

Indianapolis Drug Dealing Laws 

Indianapolis drug dealing laws can be found in Indiana Code 35-48-4, which covers an array of drug-related offenses, including dealing cannabis, cocaine, narcotics, methamphetamine and other controlled substances.  

Dealing in Cocaine or Other Narcotics: Per Indiana Code 35-48-4-1, a person who knowingly or intentionally manufactures; finances the manufacture of; delivers; or  finances the delivery of; cocaine or a narcotic drug, pure or adulterated, classified in schedule I or II; or possesses, with intent to manufacture; finance the manufacture of; deliver; or finance the delivery of cocaine or a narcotic drug (such as fentanyl, heroin or other opioids), pure or adulterated, classified in schedule I or II; commits dealing in cocaine or a narcotic drug, a Level 5 felony. 

Dealing in Marijuana, Hashish, or Salvia: Per Indiana Code 35-48-4-10, any individual who knowingly or intentionally manufactures (or finances the manufacturing) of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia; delivers (or finances the delivery) of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia; or possesses marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia with the intent to take any of the preceding actions commits a Class A Misdemeanor.   

Dealing in Methamphetamine: Per Indiana Code 35-48-4-1.2, a person who knowingly or intentionally delivers or finances the delivery of methamphetamine, pure or adulterated; or possesses, with intent to deliver or finance the delivery of methamphetamine, pure or adulterated; commits dealing in methamphetamine, a Level 5 felony.  

Dealing in Scheduled Drugs: Per Indiana Code 35-48-4-2, a person who knowingly or intentionally manufactures; finances the manufacture of; delivers; or finances the delivery of a drug or analog, pure or adulterated, classified in schedule I, II, or III (except marijuana, hashish, hash oil, or salvia) or possesses, with intent to manufacture; finance the manufacture of; deliver; or finance the delivery of a drug or analog, pure or adulterated, classified in schedule I, II, or III, commits a Level 6 felony in Indiana.  

Potential Penalties and Collateral Consequences for Drug Dealing in Indiana 

Drug dealing charges in Indianapolis have the potential to completely alter a person’s life. Depending on the circumstances at hand and the amount of drugs involved, a person found guilty of drug dealing could face anywhere between no jail time to up to 30 years in prison for a single conviction. Given this, it’s vital for anyone facing such allegations to secure the representation of one of the leading drug dealing defense lawyers in Indianapolis. This will ensure that everything is being done to protect their freedom and future.  

When a person is charged with drug dealing in Indiana, the seriousness of their offense will depend on two factors: the amount of drugs involved and/or enhancing circumstances. When it comes to cocaine, narcotics, and methamphetamine, a baseline Level 5 felony charge for drug dealing may be enhanced to:  

• a Level 4 felony if the amount of drugs is at least 1 gram, but less than 5 grams; or the amount of the drug involved is less than 1 gram, and enhancing circumstances apply 

• a Level 3 felony if the amount of the drug involved is more than 5 grams, but less than 10 grams; or the amount of the drug involved is at least 1 gram but less than 5 grams, and enhancing circumstances apply 

• a Level 2 felony if the amount of the drug involved is at least 10 grams; or the amount of the drug involved is at least 5 grams but less than 10 grams, and enhancing circumstances apply  

In addition to weight, certain enhancing circumstances may elevate a person’s criminal charges for drug dealing. Enhancing circumstances for drug crimes in Indiana include:  

• Having a prior conviction, in any jurisdiction, for dealing in a controlled substance (except for marijuana, hashish, hash oil, or salvia), including an attempt or conspiracy to commit the offense  

• Having committed the offense while possessing a firearm  

• Having committed the offense on a school bus or in, on, or within 500 feet of a school property while a person under the age of 18 was reasonably expected to be present  

• Having committed the offense in a public park while a person under the age of 18 was reasonably expected to be present  

• Having delivered or financed the delivery of the drug to a person under the age of 18, who is at least three years younger than the offender  

• Having manufactured or financed the manufacturing of the drug  

• Having committed the offense in the physical presence of a child under the age of 18, knowing that the child was present and may be able to see or hear the offense taking place  

• Having committed the offense on the property of a penal facility or juvenile facility  

• Having committed the offense in, on, or within 100 feet of a facility (created or funded under Indiana Code 12-23-14 or Indiana Code 33-23-16) certified under Indiana Code 12-23-1-6 or used for the purpose of conducting a recovery or support group meeting, and at which a drug abuser may be provided with treatment, care or rehabilitation.  

As can be assumed, potential criminal penalties increase as felony levels grow more serious. As made clear in the Indiana Sentencing Guidelines, a Level 5 felony charge carries a sentencing range of 1-6 years in prison, while a Level 4 felony charge carries a range of 2-12 years; Level 3 felony charges carry a sentencing range of 3-16 years, and Level 2 felony charges carry a range of 10-30 years.  

Collateral Consequences for Drug Dealing in Indiana 

Collateral consequences are legal and social restrictions imposed on individuals as a result of a criminal conviction but are not part of the direct sentence. These consequences, often unanticipated, can have a profound impact on various aspects of life. Unlike direct penalties, collateral consequences are not always explicitly defined by law and can vary significantly depending on the individual’s profession, residency, and the nature of the offense. For many, these consequences can be just as debilitating as the sentence itself, affecting their livelihood, rights, and relationships. 

One of the most immediate and severe impacts is on employment and professional licensure. Individuals with criminal records often face significant barriers to securing jobs, particularly in fields requiring professional licensure or security clearances. In Indiana, convictions can lead to the revocation or suspension of licenses for professionals like nurses, doctors, teachers, and social workers, jeopardizing their careers. Additionally, certain convictions result in automatic disqualification from public benefits, such as housing assistance and educational loans, which are often critical for rebuilding one’s life post-conviction. Felony convictions in Indiana also strip individuals of their voting rights and the ability to own firearms, limiting civic engagement and personal freedoms. 

The effects extend beyond professional and legal restrictions, touching deeply on personal life. Social stigma and isolation often accompany a criminal conviction, straining relationships and complicating family dynamics, including custodial and marital arrangements. The psychological toll, marked by stress, shame, depression, and anxiety, can linger for years. Addressing these collateral consequences in Indiana requires a proactive legal approach tailored to the individual’s situation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preparing for the far-reaching impacts of criminal charges. 

Facing Drug Dealing Charges in Indiana? Contact an Attorney Today 

Navigating the complexities of Indiana’s drug laws can be overwhelming, especially when you’re facing drug dealing charges. Indiana’s legal code contains numerous statutes on drug-related offenses, each with its own enhancements and penalties, making it challenging to pinpoint which laws apply to your specific situation. By working with an experienced Indiana drug crimes attorney, you gain a clear understanding of the charges against you and a well-informed strategy to defend your rights and future. 

At Keffer Hirschauer LLP, our attorneys approach drug dealing charges with a thorough review of several key factors, including: 

• The type of controlled substance involved in the alleged offense. 
• Whether the charge solely involves drug dealing or includes other offenses such as possession or manufacturing. 
• Whether the alleged offense qualifies as a misdemeanor or a felony based on the circumstances. 
• The potential penalties, such as incarceration, fines, probation, or impacts on professional licensure. 
• Additional elements like the involvement of weapons or other individuals in the alleged crime. 
• Any violations of constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, such as illegal search and seizure. 
• Statements made to law enforcement or prosecutors by you or other individuals involved. 

An experienced attorney can also provide a clear perspective on the severity of the charges and potential penalties. This includes referencing Indiana sentencing guidelines and advisory sentencing ranges to ensure you understand what’s at stake. With the right legal representation, you can build a strong defense to challenge the charges and protect your rights. Don’t face this daunting process alone—contact Keffer Hirschauer LLP at 317-648-9560 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. 

Possible Defenses for Those Facing Drug Dealing Charges in Indiana   

When facing drug dealing charges in Indiana, an experienced attorney’s first step is to examine the statutory defenses outlined in the Indiana Code. For example, Indiana Code 35-48-4-16 provides circumstances under which a higher-level charge, such as dealing drugs within 500 feet of a school or park, could potentially be reduced to a possession charge. Identifying and leveraging these statutory provisions can significantly impact the outcome of your case. 

If statutory defenses are insufficient, an attorney will explore other avenues of defense, drawing on your constitutional rights under the U.S. Constitution and the Indiana Constitution. Building a defense often involves scrutinizing the evidence—or lack thereof—in your case. Effective strategies might include: 

• Challenging Illegal Searches and Seizures: By proving that evidence was obtained through an unreasonable search or seizure, your attorney may move to have it suppressed. Article I, Section 11 of the Indiana Constitution protects Hoosiers from such violations. 
• Disputing Constructive Possession: If the state alleges you had control over drugs without direct evidence, your attorney can argue that the state has failed to prove constructive possession beyond a reasonable doubt. 
• Highlighting Circumstantial Evidence: Demonstrating that the state’s case relies solely on weak or inconclusive circumstantial evidence can cast doubt on the allegations. 

A skilled attorney combines these defenses with a meticulous review of the evidence and legal procedures to uncover any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. With a tailored and strategic approach, they work to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. Whether it’s suppressing evidence, reducing charges, or dismantling the prosecution’s narrative, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. 

Looking for the Best Drug Dealing Defense Lawyer in Indianapolis?  

Facing drug dealing charges in Indianapolis is an incredibly serious matter, as a conviction could result in life-altering criminal penalties. That said, hiring the best drug dealing defense lawyer in Indianapolis can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With the right legal representation, it may be possible to have charges dismissed, reduced, or penalties mitigated under Indiana law. 

The seasoned Indiana drug crime attorneys at Keffer Hirschauer LLP are all former deputy prosecutors who have extensive experience handling drug-related matters on both sides of the courtroom. This dual perspective means that our attorneys can strategically analyze evidence, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a robust defense tailored to your unique circumstances. Ultimately, when you choose an defense attorney in Indianapolis from our firm, you’re choosing to work with an attorney that is committed to protecting your rights, safeguarding your freedoms, and working toward securing the best possible outcome for your future. 

If you’ve been arrested in Indianapolis, you’ll want to take action now. Contact a criminal lawyer in Indianapolis from Keffer Hirschauer LLP today at 317-648-9560 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced defense attorney. Let us begin building your defense immediately.