Narcotics Offenses

Our Ann Arbor Attorneys for Defense of Narcotics Charges

Over 25+ Years Defending Michigan Drug Charges

Drug charges — possession, use, sales or cultivation of narcotics — may result in jail or prison sentences. There are mandatory sentences for some Michigan narcotics offenses, and use of drugs is one of the most common violations of probation. Unfortunately, our criminal justice system often focuses on punishment rather than treatment, so if you are charged with a narcotics offense, you may face swift and overzealous prosecution.

Drug enforcement officers may raid your home or office. These same officers may seek to forfeit your property, money, computer, car, or even your house. You may even face driver’s license sanctions for allegedly possessing narcotics, even if you were not driving! Geherin Law Group's criminal defense attorneys in Ann Arbor have successfully defended narcotics allegations for years and are skilled at litigating issues related to illegal searches and seizures of your property. If you have been charged with a narcotics offense in Washtenaw County or anywhere throughout Southeast Michigan, we have the experience and background to skillfully and aggressively handle your case.

Additional Consequences of Narcotics Convictions

Beyond incarceration, a narcotics conviction can have a ripple effect throughout every aspect of your life. A drug conviction can make it difficult to maintain or secure employment, particularly in licensed professions or jobs that require background checks. It can limit access to educational opportunities, student loans, and housing—especially if you reside in federally subsidized housing. Non-citizens may also face immigration consequences, including deportation or inadmissibility.

If you’re a parent, a drug charge may even impact your custody rights. Courts may view narcotics offenses—particularly those involving alleged use or trafficking—as indicators of instability or unfitness, even when assumptions are unfounded. These collateral consequences underscore the importance of fighting back with an experienced legal team that understands both the legal system and the long-term impact on your future.

Your Best Defense to Narcotics Charges

There are many defenses we can employ for people charged with narcotics offenses. There are challenges that can be made to the search and seizure of you and your property. If the prosecutor has the evidence to convict, there are first-offender programs that can ultimately result in a dismissal of your case. There are treatment centers and professionals with whom we have a professional referral network for those who need help. In short, when faced with a drug charge, our firm stands ready to help preserve your driving status and protect your property, your reputation and your freedom.

Understanding Michigan Narcotics Laws

Michigan’s drug laws are strict and can be confusing. The penalties for possession, manufacturing, or distribution vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type and amount of narcotics involved, prior criminal history, and whether there was intent to deliver. Controlled substances are classified into five “schedules,” with Schedule 1 drugs considered the most dangerous (e.g., heroin, LSD, ecstasy) and Schedule 5 the least.

Possession of a Schedule 1 or 2 narcotic—such as cocaine, fentanyl, or methamphetamine—can be charged as a felony and carry up to life imprisonment depending on the weight of the substance. Even small quantities can result in steep penalties. The presence of firearms, proximity to schools, or involvement of minors can further escalate charges.

Michigan also enforces laws surrounding analog drugs (synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of controlled substances), drug paraphernalia, and prescription fraud. We have extensive experience handling a wide range of narcotics-related charges, including:

• Possession or use of controlled substances
• Possession with intent to deliver
• Manufacturing or cultivation
• Prescription drug fraud
• Trafficking and conspiracy charges
• Drug delivery resulting in death

Search and Seizure Violations

Many drug cases gather evidence during a search or traffic stop. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights at any point—such as conducting an unlawful search of your home, car, or person—we’ll aggressively challenge the admissibility of evidence. The Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, and any evidence obtained in violation of those rights may be excluded from trial.

This often applies in situations where:

• Police entered a home without a proper warrant
• A vehicle was searched without probable cause
• Officers exceeded the scope of a search warrant
• A person was detained or interrogated without being advised of their rights

Our attorneys thoroughly review every aspect of the arrest, warrant, and investigation process to identify any constitutional violations that may form the basis for a motion to suppress evidence.

Here’s What Our Clients Are Saying

“Dan and his team did a great job of leading me through the legal process. He was responsive and communicative and described each step clearly, and was ultimately successful in my case. Highly recommend him.” 

Jon, Avvo Review

“Dan provided us with caring, calming, and knowledgeable representation. He was available whenever we needed him and provided us with smart advice and an excellent outcome. We are grateful to have found him.”

Randy, Avvo Review

“I was in a really tough spot and Dan helped me on weekends and did an amazing job of getting me prepared for doing what I needed to do to give me the best possible outcome and did an equally as good job when he represented me.”

Joseph, Avvo Review

Compassionate Representation for Every Client

Whether you're a first-time offender or facing multiple charges, our team approaches each case with the same unwavering commitment to justice. We don’t judge—we fight, and we do so with the experience, resources, and dedication that have earned us the trust of clients across Michigan.

Our clients come to us scared, confused, and often in disbelief that they are facing criminal prosecution. We treat every client with compassion, respect, and absolute confidentiality. We work to understand your goals, whether that means clearing your name, keeping your license, avoiding jail, or simply resolving the case with as little impact on your life as possible.

We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect—regardless of the allegations against them. Our mission is not only to defend your legal rights but to help you rebuild and move forward. 

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged

If you've been arrested or suspect that you’re under investigation for a drug-related offense, it’s essential to act quickly. Don’t speak with police or investigators without a criminal defense attorney present. Anything you say may be used against you—even seemingly innocent comments. Instead, contact our office immediately. We can step in to protect your rights, evaluate the strength of the case against you, and begin building a strategic defense plan.

Contact GLG's criminal defense attorneys for a free consultation.

To learn how we can represent you in a narcotics case, please call or email to arrange a free consultation and case evaluation.