What happens when someone is arrested for a drug crime?

Being arrested for drug possession in Ohio is stressful, frightening, and can leave you uncertain about what comes next. Whether it happens during a traffic stop or a police raid, how you respond in the hours and days after your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

As a seasoned Toledo drug crime attorney, I’ve guided clients through the criminal justice system and helped them protect their rights, freedom, and future. If you or a loved one has been arrested for a drug offense in Lucas County or anywhere in Northwest Ohio, follow these steps immediately.

🚓 1. Stay Calm and Remain Silent

When you're arrested, emotions run high—but this is when you need to be most careful.

DO NOT:

• Argue with the police
• Admit to owning the drugs
• Try to explain or justify the situation

DO:

• Politely say: “I want to speak to my attorney.”
• Stay silent until you’ve had legal counsel. Silence is an ally when you are arrested
• Remember: anything you say can and will be used against you.

Even if you believe the drugs weren’t yours, talking to the police without a lawyer can unintentionally damage your case. As your attorney, I can speak for you and protect your interests.

📋 2. Understand the Booking and Bail Process

After arrest, you’ll be taken to jail—usually the Lucas County Corrections Center if you're arrested in Toledo or Lucas County.

Here’s what happens:

• You’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and formally charged
• Bail may be set based on the seriousness of the offense
• For many drug possession charges, you may be released on your own recognizance or with a reasonable bond

Having an attorney early in the process can help you get a bail reduction or secure release faster.

🏛️ 3. Know What Happens at Your First Court Appearance (Arraignment)

The arraignment is your first court hearing, usually held the day after your arrest but may be longer if the arrest was on a holiday or weekend.

At this hearing:

• The court will read the charges against you
• The judge will determine if you have an attorney or one needs to be appointed
• You’ll enter a plea: Not Guilty is almost always the best option at this stage
• The judge may modify your bond or impose conditions (e.g., drug testing, travel restrictions)
• A future court date will be set for a pretrial or preliminary hearing

If possible, retain an attorney to go to court with you for your arraignment. As your Toledo criminal defense attorney, I can be there to represent you, protect your rights, and begin crafting your defense from day one.

🔍 4. Begin Building Your Defense Early

The sooner you hire an attorney, the more time we have to:

• Review the police reports and evidence
• File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Investigate potential violations of your rights
• Explore options like diversion, dismissal, or reduced charges

At Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law, I personally handle every aspect of your case—from court appearances to negotiating with prosecutors to trial preparation.

🚑 5. Seek Treatment If You Struggle with Addiction

If your arrest was related to drug dependency, proactively entering a treatment or rehab program can benefit your health—and your legal case.

Judges in Lucas County, especially in Drug Court, often look favorably on defendants who take responsibility and seek help. In some cases, Intervention in Lieu of Conviction (ILC) is appropriate.

❌ 6. Don’t Rely on Public Defenders Alone

While public defenders work hard, they are sometimes overburdened. Hiring a private defense attorney can mean:

• More time spent on your case
• Faster response to your questions and concerns
• A stronger defense strategy tailored to your unique situation

With years of experience defending clients in Toledo Municipal Court, Lucas County Common Pleas, and surrounding counties, I can help defend your case and evaluate it properly.

✅ 7. Contact an Experienced Toledo Drug Possession Attorney Immediately

If you've been arrested for drug possession in Toledo or anywhere in Northwest Ohio, don’t wait until your court date to seek legal help. A conviction can follow you for years—but with the right defense, it can often be avoided.

At Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law, I offer:

• Free consultations
• Aggressive representation
• Personalized attention and trusted local experience

📞 Take Control of Your Case—Call Today

Charged with a drug offense in Toledo, Sylvania, Maumee, Oregon, or Lucas County? Get answers and guidance now.

📱 Call: 419-830-7441

🌐 Visit: www.brianmorrisseylaw.com

📧 Email: brian@brianmorrisseylaw.com

Serving clients across Northwest Ohio with dedication and results.