Kent Drug Crime Lawyer

Kent Drug Crime Attorney

A drug charge in Washington state can be very serious and carry harsh penalties. So many factors are considered by the court, like your record, the drug involved, and whether it was for personal use. You don’t want to face the consequences alone. You need a Kent drug crime lawyer to guide you through the process from your arrest to court. Having a knowledgeable attorney can make all the difference in your drug crime case.

ARK Law can advocate for you. Andrea Kim has over 10 years of experience in criminal defense, including drug crimes. She has an exceptional track record in court. While past performance is not always indicative of future results, ARK Law can put its knowledge to work on your behalf.

Andrea Kim’s former clients comment on her professional, compassionate approach to every case and her attention to detail. She analyzes the evidence to develop a personalized defense for you. When you need a Kent drug crime attorney, look no further than ARK Law.

Drug Crime Laws in Washington

In Washington, the Uniform Controlled Substances Act details the laws for drug crimes. It defines a drug offense as the possession, manufacture, or delivery of a controlled substance. 

The law outlines different categories of controlled substances. Here are some examples:

• Narcotics, like heroin and fentanyl
• Amphetamine and methamphetamine
• Cocaine
• Medications without a valid prescription
• LSD
• Ecstasy
• Marijuana

Drug Offenses in the U.S. and Washington State

According to the FBI, in 2025, there were 1,090,803 drug offenses across the country. Washington state’s annual crime report in 2024 noted 17,473 drug offenses, with 7,880 related to amphetamines and methamphetamines. This was the highest ranking drug when it came to arrests. Possession accounted for 70.1% of the total number of drug offenses that year.

Drug Crime Penalties in Washington

Washington state drug crime penalties can be complex. They depend greatly on these factors:

• The amount you possess and whether it’s deemed for personal use or distribution.
• The type of drug involved. If a substance is more addictive, the punishment is harsher.
• Your past criminal record.
• Other evidence involved, like baggies or scales.
• The presence of weapons during the crime.

For a drug crime, you can be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. The penalties are as follows:

• Possession. Gross misdemeanor.
  • Up to 180 days in jail for the first or second offense. Your sentence can increase with the number of offenses on your record.
• Manufacturer or intent to sell. Schedule I or II substance, which includes narcotics and other more addictive substances. Class B felony.
  • Up to 10 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines
• Manufacturer or intent to sell. Schedule III, IV, and V, like Xanax or Ativan. Class C felony.
  • Up to 5 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines
• Growing marijuana. Misdemeanor. While recreational marijuana use is legal, growing it or selling it without a license is not.
  • $250 fine and 24 hours in jail
• Paraphernalia. Misdemeanor.
  • $250 fine and 24 hours in jail

When you hire a drug crime lawyer, they can explain the law and drug crime penalties to you. They can help you build a defense related to your charges.

Other Options for Drug Crimes in Kent

Washington offers other options beyond fines and jail time. These options can be part of your defense and negotiations with the prosecution. The Drug Court for King County, which is located on 3rd Avenue in Seattle, is where defendants can be offered alternatives, such as:

• Drug Offender Sentencing Alternatives (DOSA), which includes mandatory drug treatment in place of time in jail.
• Waivers for first-time offenders, offering court-ordered requirements to avoid jail and pursue rehabilitation.
• Diversion programs that focus on drug treatment and counseling.

Possible Defense Strategies for Drug Crimes

Building the appropriate defense can result in the dismissal or reduction of a drug crime. Here are some strategies:

• Lack of probable cause by the police. This can result in an illegal search and seizure.
• There could be mistakes on the search warrant.
• Dishonest witnesses or informants may be acting in their own self-interest, which can impact your involvement. 

FAQs

Can Drug Charges Be Dropped in King County?

Yes, your drug charges can be dropped if you and your attorney work together to build a defense for you and your situation. Every drug crime case is different, meaning there are different options and strategies to have your case dismissed or reduced. Consult an experienced criminal defense attorney early to get started.

How Much Does a Drug Crime Lawyer Cost in Kent?

The cost of a drug crime lawyer depends on your case. Some drug crimes are straightforward, while others are much more complex. The more time spent on gathering evidence, developing a defense, and arguing in court, the higher the cost. In the end, having an experienced attorney can save you from jail time and fines. 

What Should I Do If I Get Arrested for Drugs?

There are a few things you can do after a drug arrest. First, don’t say anything to the police or answer their questions. Ask for an attorney immediately. Be respectful and not aggressive. You don’t want your behavior to be used against you later in court. Try to stay calm and follow your lawyer’s instructions.

What Percentage of People Complete Drug Court in Washington state?

A high percentage of people complete drug court in Washington state. In 2024, a report found that 88% of participants didn’t commit any additional felonies, and 77% didn’t commit any additional misdemeanors. This may be due to the resources and support provided by the programs offered at drug court, which could be an option for you.

Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer in Kent

At ARK Law, Andrea makes every case a priority. She’s approachable and professional. She’s not afraid to go to court or confront the prosecution. After thousands of cases, she’s honed her skills in using intelligent strategies to advocate for your rights and your future. If you’re worried about your drug crime case in Kent and don’t know where to turn, contact ARK Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how she can help.