Howard County Drug Arrests

If you were arrested for a drug-related offense, you should reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Lawyers understand the procedures and regulations involved in Howard County drug arrests, and they could exploit any misconduct to help your case. Call today to set up a case review.

Typical Arrest Procedures

If somebody is arrested in Howard County, they are placed in handcuffs, put in the back of a squad car, and transported to a police station. From there, they are booked, processed, and eventually will see a commissioner to determine whether the person is safe to release to the community or released with conditions. In the worst-case scenario, the commissioner could order someone held without bond, in which case they would go before a judge the next business day for a bail review.

Other Individuals at the Scene

There is always a risk of other individuals being arrested at the scene of a drug arrest. More than one person can be in possession of a substance at the same time. A person can even be in constructive possession, which means they possess things that are not necessarily on their person, or even miles away from them.

For example, a person is in constructive possession of shoes in their closet even when they are at work. That said, just because there is no criminal charge for being present while somebody has drugs, there is always a risk. If no one accepts ownership, then everyone gets charged with the substance.

Rights During an Arrest

A person arrested for drugs in Howard County has the absolute right to not say anything, and they do not have to answer any questions or speak to police, whatsoever. At the time of the arrest, though, they do not have the right to an attorney. That comes from the first opportunity during any interrogation or when they come before a commissioner.

If there is a basic traffic stop for a minor violation, the officer must get the person’s consent if they want to search the vehicle. But, if the police have independent probable cause of criminal activity, then they can search. It could be as simple as the odor of marijuana, a few pills, powder, or empty baggies sitting in plain view, or even paraphernalia on the console. That gives independent probable cause that there could be drugs or drug activity in the vehicle.

A person should avoid discussing anything with the police when being arrested, especially anything related to the crime for which they are charged or are being investigated. They are required to give their name, date of birth, address, and basic info. But, when it comes to any questions such as where a person got the narcotics or how long have they been using, there is absolutely no requirement they answer those questions. In fact, it is generally better not to.

What to Expect After an Arrest

Once a person is transported to the police station, booked, and processed, they will have an opportunity to be considered for release at the commissioner phase or the bail review, which can take a good number of hours after arrest. That also will be the first opportunity for them to request to speak to an attorney or to have them represent them for the proceeding.

If a commissioner decides to hold somebody on bond or without bond, then they will be transported to the local jail and remain there. They will get a bail review the next business day in front of a judge, or if it is a Friday, it will not be until Monday. If a person cannot procure their own release or they are being held without bond, they will stay at the jail until their court date.

Speak with a Howard County Drug Attorney About Your Address

Being arrested for a drug crime is intimidating, but it does not mean you will be found guilty. With the help of an attorney, you could challenge the validity of Howard County drug arrests in an attempt to win your case. Call today to get started.