Reading Drug Crime Attorneys
Last updated on November 14, 2025
People from all walks of life can find themselves facing arrests for drug crimes. Whether their reason for having the drugs relates to experimentation, pain relief or desperation, a conviction carries heavy consequences. A permanent criminal record can lock you out of housing and job opportunities, make it harder to attend the college of your choice and diminish your standing in the community.
The drug crime attorneys at our firm, Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, offer compassionate, nonjudgmental representation. We’re here to ensure your due process rights are respected and that you receive any help you may need.
Consequences Of Drug Crimes In Massachusetts
The commonwealth of Massachusetts takes a strong stance against the possession and distribution of many types of controlled substances. Drugs defined as “Class A” under Massachusetts’ classification system – which can include possession of fentanyl, heroin and morphine – often carry mandatory minimum sentences if you are convicted.
Possessing a prescription drug with a high potential for misuse or abuse without a prescription is also considered a crime. Possession of large amounts of a controlled substance can result in trafficking or intent to distribute charges, which can lead to even higher fines and longer prison sentences.
Common drug charges in Massachusetts include:
- Simple possession: Having small amounts of controlled substances for personal use
- Possession with intent to distribute: Having larger quantities suggesting sales activity
- Drug trafficking: Possessing, distributing or manufacturing a substantial amount of drugs
- Prescription drug violations: Having prescription medications without valid prescriptions
- Drug paraphernalia charges: Possessing items used to consume or distribute drugs
Each charge carries different penalty ranges and potential consequences that can affect your freedom, finances and future opportunities.
Drug Crime Defenses And Sentencing Alternatives
At Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys take an aggressive approach to defending our clients, and drug cases are no exception. We carefully examine the possible defenses for your circumstances. If law enforcement overstepped its bounds during your arrest, we will attack the prosecution’s case with vigor.
Our legal staff has also helped many defendants facing drug charges get the help they need to recover from addiction issues. Massachusetts has more than two dozen drug courts, which offer intensive probation, recovery support and mandatory drug testing to encourage leaving a drug dependency in the past.
Our Goal Is A Win For You
A drug crime conviction can devastate the life you’ve worked so hard to build. Our firm’s attorneys utilize their experience in the commonwealth’s district and superior courts to create a defense that helps you move on with your life. Call us in Reading today at 781-214-7398 or use our online contact form to set up your free initial consultation. We serve clients in Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex counties.
Recommended Reading
If you wish to learn more about how the law treats drug crimes in Massachusetts, we have a wide array of resources. Check out these pages:
- When can Massachusetts police arrest you for drug trafficking?
- Defenses to consider when you’re charged with drug possession
- Massachusetts cocaine laws
- Possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia in Massachusetts
These articles provide detailed information to help you understand your rights and potential defenses in Massachusetts drug cases.
Resources
We also recommend studying helpful external resources from government agencies and support organizations. Here are some useful links:
- Massachusetts classifications for controlled substances
- Massachusetts drug sentencing guidelines (page 15)
- Massachusetts drug court information and locations
- Narcotics Anonymous meetings in Massachusetts
These resources provide valuable information about Massachusetts drug laws and support services for those facing addiction challenges.