It can be a frightening experience for individuals facing drug charges in Philadelphia and other parts of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania (State) Drug Charges, Dog Sniffs & Constitutional Law
Federal and Pennsylvania state courts treat narcotics dog searches differently. So different that the same scenario could result in different outcomes in federal versus state court.
Dog Sniff Searches of Cars in Pennsylvania Traffic Stops (Federal Law)
Dog or canine searches of cars during traffic stops in PA often lead to drug possession/dealing charges and gun charges.
Federal Drug Dealing Crime Sentencing Law – Mandatory Minimum Sentences Reduced in Phila. Cases
On December 21, 2018, federal sentencing laws for drug cases were amended significantly. The First Step Act removed the mandatory life sentence for 3 time drug offenders in high quantity drug dealing cases and also reduced the mandatory minimum sentences for 2nd offenses.
Federal Sentences for Drug Dealing Convictions in Philadelphia
Under U.S. federal sentencing laws, possession of a substantial amount of drugs with intent to deliver or manufacture almost always leads to a lengthy prison sentence.
Pennsylvania Gun Charges in Federal Court – Mandatory Prison Sentences
Gun charges are some of the most common cases in Pennsylvania’s federal court, especially for residents of Philadelphia. Usually, federal gun charges are filed with other charges, like drug delivery.
The Stop & Frisk Doctrine – Can a Philadelphia Police Officer Stop You and Pat You Down?
Unreasonable searches and seizures are barred by US and Pennsylvania Constitutional law. In general, police officers have to get a warrant before conducting a search of an individual or their property (homes, cars, etc.).
Criminal Charges for Selling Marijuana in Pennsylvania – Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Depending on the amounts being “sold,” an individual may face many years in prison if ultimately convicted of even a single count of manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance.
PA Drug Offense Mandatory Minimum Sentences, Gun Possession
Over the past decade or so, Pennsylvania’s mandatory minimum sentencing law in drug-gun cases has resulted in increased prison sentences for many residents of Pennsylvania, including residents of major cities like Philadelphia, which has a high number of drug-gun cases compared to other Pennsylvania cities.
Major Changes in Pennsylvania Search-Seizure Law, Drug/Gun Cases
Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court 2014 ruling changed the entire landscape of search and seizure in drug and gun cases in Philadelphia.