If you are facing drug charges, you need to review the unique details surrounding your case. There are many factors that can play a role in the penalties you face, such as the presence of children when an alleged offense took place.
From possessing drug paraphernalia and illegal substances to allegations involving the manufacturing or distribution of unlawful substances, these cases take different forms. Parents can face harsher penalties and additional challenges when drug-related cases surface.
Looking at the penalties for drug offenses when kids are present
The Office of the Revisor of Statutes covers the penalties some parents face when they face drug charges involving methamphetamine while children are present. For example, if anyone stores methamphetamine, methamphetamine waste products or methamphetamine paraphernalia in the presence of children, or they manufacture methamphetamine in a building children live in, they could face up to five years behind bars and $10,000 in fines. Children include anyone under the age of 18.
Drug-related offenses, children and child custody
In addition to fines and jail time, parents can also lose custody of their children as a result of drug offenses. For example, if a law enforcement official finds that a child is present while his or her parents are manufacturing methamphetamine, they could place the child in protective custody. It is also important to realize that drug-related cases can affect parents who are fighting for their custody rights during the divorce process.
If you are dealing with drug charges as a parent, you need to understand what is at stake and carefully examine all of your options.