Will I go to jail for a first-time drug possession charge?

Maybe not. For small amounts and first offenses, probation or diversion may be possible. A lawyer can help secure a non-jail outcome if your record and the charges qualify.

What’s the difference between possession and trafficking?

Mainly the quantity. Possessing over certain thresholds (e.g., 10 lbs of marijuana or 28g of cocaine) triggers trafficking charges—even if you weren’t caught selling.

Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?

Yes, in some cases. Weak evidence, a clean record, or successful negotiation may allow for reduced charges in exchange for a plea.

Do drug charges stay on your record?

Yes, if convicted. However, certain charges may be eligible for expungement later. We’ll advise whether your case might qualify.

How does bail work in felony cases?

After arrest, a magistrate sets bail. Serious felonies may have high bonds or be denied bail initially. We can file to reduce bond at a hearing if needed.

Drug Crimes & Felony Defense Attorney – Halifax, NC

If you’ve been arrested for a drug offense or any felony charge in Halifax or Northampton County, you’re facing serious consequences. Even a first-time possession charge can result in a criminal record, jail time, and lasting damage to your future. As a trusted Halifax drug crime lawyer, Franklin L. Jones Jr. defends individuals across Eastern North Carolina against drug and felony charges—helping clients fight back with knowledge, experience, and an unwavering commitment to protecting their rights.

Drug Charges in NC Range from Minor Possession to Serious Felonies

North Carolina categorizes drug crimes based on the substance and the amount involved. Our firm defends clients against a wide range of offenses, including:

Simple possession (marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, prescription meds without a valid prescription)
Possession with intent to sell or deliver (PWISD)
Drug trafficking (triggered by quantity, not necessarily intent to sell)
Prescription fraud and doctor shopping
Possession of drug paraphernalia

Possession of marijuana may be a misdemeanor, but possession of harder substances—even in small amounts—is often a felony. And trafficking charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences, even for first-time offenders. If you’re accused of transporting, selling, or manufacturing drugs in Halifax or Northampton County, don’t wait—get legal help immediately.

Felony Charges Carry Life-Changing Penalties

Felony convictions in North Carolina don’t just mean the possibility of prison. They can affect your ability to vote, own firearms, find employment, or even secure housing. The severity of punishment depends on two key factors: the felony class (ranging from Class I to Class A) and your prior record level.

01

Class I Felony

Possession of a Schedule I or II substance; potential probation or a few months’ jail

02

Class H-G Felony

Breaking & entering, possession with intent; can lead to years in prison

03

Class C-A Felony

Drug trafficking, robbery, assault with deadly weapon; long-term prison time, parole limitations

Felony convictions are permanent unless expunged under strict conditions. Having the right felony defense attorney in Halifax could make all the difference in preserving your future.

Experienced in Local Courts – Halifax, Northampton & Beyond

Having represented clients in Halifax and Northampton County courts for years, Franklin L. Jones Jr. knows how local prosecutors approach drug and felony cases. Whether your charge stems from an arrest in Roanoke Rapids, Enfield, or Garysburg, you’ll benefit from having a lawyer who understands the local courtroom dynamics.

Some counties offer pretrial programs or have specific approaches to first-time drug offenders. We’ll explain what’s available in your case—and push for every advantage.

Every case begins with a thorough investigation. We scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, starting with whether law enforcement followed the rules:

Was there a legal reason for the search?
Did they have a valid warrant or probable cause?
Was the lab analysis of the alleged substance conducted properly?
Can they prove the substance was in your possession or under your control?

In drug cases, if your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, we can move to suppress the evidence. For both drug and felony charges, we explore alternatives like:

Pretrial diversion or drug treatment court (when available)
Negotiating plea deals to reduce felonies to misdemeanors
Trial defense using witnesses, expert testimony, or holes in the prosecution’s case

We explain your options at every stage so you can make informed decisions. You’re never just a case number here—you’ll get clear advice, direct communication, and fierce advocacy.

FAQs – Drug & Felony Charges in NC

Will I go to jail for a first-time drug possession charge?
Maybe not. For small amounts and first offenses, probation or diversion may be possible. A lawyer can help secure a non-jail outcome if your record and the charges qualify.
What’s the difference between possession and trafficking?
Mainly the quantity. Possessing over certain thresholds (e.g., 10 lbs of marijuana or 28g of cocaine) triggers trafficking charges—even if you weren’t caught selling.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes, in some cases. Weak evidence, a clean record, or successful negotiation may allow for reduced charges in exchange for a plea.
Do drug charges stay on your record?
Yes, if convicted. However, certain charges may be eligible for expungement later. We’ll advise whether your case might qualify.
How does bail work in felony cases?
After arrest, a magistrate sets bail. Serious felonies may have high bonds or be denied bail initially. We can file to reduce bond at a hearing if needed.