Criminal Defense · Boston, Massachusetts

Criminal Defense Practice Area

Drug Offenses & Possession

Drug-possession, possession-with-intent, distribution, and trafficking charges are all serious. The difference between them turns on the amount of drugs involved, combined with any other factor that indicates the potential for distribution. A conviction can carry severe potential penalties, especially when there are prior similar convictions.

What may matter in your case

  • Search warrants, traffic stops, and consent searches
  • Ownership, knowledge, and control of the location or item
  • Laboratory identification and chain of custody
  • Quantity, packaging, communications, and alleged intent
  • Statements made before or after arrest
  • Available treatment, diversion, or negotiated-resolution options
Forensic laboratory microscope and test tubes

A focused defense starts early

One of the biggest issues we see in the criminal justice system is the police conducting illegal searches and seizures in violation of the Fourth Amendment. That’s why the best defense in these cases starts with a motion to suppress. Don’t waste your chance to get the evidence excluded. If the motion to suppress is allowed, the prosecution cannot use the evidence they illegally obtained.

I have argued dozens of motions to suppress in my career, and know exactly what procedure the police need to follow to uphold the search- which is how I can point out the slightest deviation.

Having taken these drug distribution cases to trial, I know what factors the court and prosecutors look for to show intent to distribute. I can explain alternative reasons for those factors existing to a jury so you can get the “not guilty” verdict you deserve.

Defending your rights during these cases may involve cross-examining expert witnesses. I have used the same expert witnesses as a prosecutor and understand the complex testing process that goes into each drug-related case. Having an understanding of the science behinds the testing helps to prepare a good defense for you at trial.

Facing a charge or investigation?

Speak with counsel before answering questions or making decisions that may affect your case. An attorney can help advise on what, if anything, you should say. Let someone from the Law Offices of Ryan P. Callahan guide you through this complicated process.