Best Drug Crime Lawyers in Beaverton

About Drug Crime Law in Beaverton, United States

Beaverton is located in Oregon, where drug crime laws are primarily set by state statutes rather than city ordinances. The Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) govern possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of controlled substances. In recent years Oregon has enacted major reforms, notably Measure 110, which decriminalized personal possession of small amounts of illegal drugs and redirected enforcement toward addiction treatment and public health approaches.

State law distinguishes between possession for personal use, possession with intent to distribute, and manufacture or trafficking. Penalties vary by substance, amount, location, and prior history. Local police in Beaverton enforce these state statutes under the supervision of Washington County courts, with case handling in the Washington County Circuit Court system.

“Measure 110 decriminalizes possession of any amount of illegal drugs and imposes a civil penalty, with funding directed toward addiction treatment and health services.”

Oregon Health Authority - Measure 110 overview (official state source).

Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 475 - Controlled Substances Act (official state source).

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Beaverton residents facing drug crime issues should consult an attorney for concrete, case-specific guidance. Below are real-world scenarios that typically require legal counsel.

• You are charged with possession of a controlled substance after a traffic stop near a Beaverton high school zone. A lawyer can assess whether probable cause existed and if Oregon Measure 110 applies to your case as a civil penalty rather than criminal charges.
• You are suspected of distributing drugs in a Beaverton neighborhood. An attorney can scrutinize search warrants, wiretap issues, and evidence collection to challenge the state's case or seek dismissal on constitutional grounds.
• You face charges for manufacturing or trafficking methamphetamine in Washington County. A lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors on potential plea deals, suppression motions, or trial strategies and explain federal implications if a trafficking count triggers federal jurisdiction.
• You have prior drug convictions and are facing enhanced penalties or potential sentencing upgrades. An attorney can present options for expungement, certificate of rehabilitation, or alternatives to incarceration where available.
• You want to pursue treatment or diversion under Measure 110. A lawyer can guide you through the Behavioral Health Assessment process and ensure your rights are protected during the transition from a civil penalty to treatment options.
• You received a warrant or search incident to arrest for drugs. A defender can review suppression issues, chain of custody, and the admissibility of seized substances in Beaverton’s courts.

Local Laws Overview

Beaverton operates under Oregon state law for drug offenses, with no separate city ordinance creating additional drug crime penalties. The following outlines two key frameworks that govern Drug Crime in Beaverton.

• Oregon Measure 110 - Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act (enacted 2020; effective February 2021). It decriminalizes possession of controlled substances and imposes a civil penalty of up to $100, while directing resources to addiction treatment and recovery services. The measure also creates a system of health-based responses rather than criminal penalties for personal possession. Official summary.
• Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 475 - Controlled Substances Act. This framework criminalizes possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of controlled substances, with penalties tied to substance type, quantity, and offense class. It remains the backbone of state drug crime prosecutions in Beaverton and surrounding jurisdictions. Official source.
• Beaverton and Washington County enforcement context. There are no separate Beaverton-only drug crime statutes; enforcement and court proceedings are handled under Oregon law, with case processing in Washington County Circuit Court. Local police departments follow state guidelines for investigations, warrants, and arrests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes drug possession under Oregon Measure 110?

Under Measure 110, possession of illegal drugs is treated as a civil violation with a $100 fine, not a criminal charge. If you enter treatment or complete a health assessment, penalties may be resolved without criminal conviction. A lawyer can help you navigate the health assessment process and protect your rights.

How do I know if my Beaverton case falls under civil penalties or criminal charges?

It depends on the amount and type of drug, and whether Measure 110 applies to your specific situation. An attorney can review the arrest details, substance involved, and prior history to determine the correct pathway and best defense strategy.

When should I contact a Beaverton drug crime attorney after an arrest?

Contact an attorney as soon as possible after an arrest or citation. Early involvement helps preserve evidence, advise on rights during interrogation, and plan pre-trial and potential settlement strategies.

Where can I find treatment options linked to Measure 110 in Oregon?

The Oregon Health Authority coordinates behavioral health and addiction treatment resources funded by Measure 110. A lawyer can help you access referrals and ensure you receive the required assessments and services.

Why might a search warrant be challenged in a Beaverton drug case?

Challenges may arise if the warrant lacks probable cause, the search exceeded its scope, or the affidavit contains misstatements. A defense attorney can scrutinize the warrant and suppression opportunities.

Do I need to appear in court for a Measure 110 civil penalty?

No physical appearance is typically required if you resolve the civil penalty through the prescribed processes; however, a lawyer can still represent you and negotiate on your behalf. Court appearances may be needed for more complex issues or disputes.

Should I accept a plea deal in a drug case in Beaverton?

Plea decisions depend on the facts, evidence strength, and potential outcomes. A skilled attorney can negotiate, explain options, and help you avoid harsher penalties if possible.

Do I need to disclose my prior drug history in Beaverton court?

Yes, prior convictions and related history can impact charges, sentencing, and eligibility for treatment programs. A lawyer can prepare a strategy to minimize negative impacts and explore relief avenues.

Is there a difference between possession versus distribution charges?

Yes. Possession can carry civil penalties under Measure 110, while possession with intent to distribute or actual distribution/trafficking carries criminal charges with potential prison time. A lawyer can distinguish the charges and tailor a defense.

How long can a drug case take in Washington County courts?

Timeline varies with case complexity, court availability, and whether a plea is reached. Simple possession cases may resolve in weeks; trafficking or multi-defendant cases can take months.

What happens if I fail to complete a treatment requirement under Measure 110?

Failure to comply with required treatment or assessment can result in a civil penalty or potential escalation to a criminal matter back in court. An attorney can help ensure compliance obligations are understood and met.

Can I seal or expunge a drug-related record in Oregon?

Oregon offers some expungement options for certain offenses, but drug case outcomes depend on the offense type and timing. A lawyer can assess eligibility and guide you through the process.

Next Steps

1. Identify a qualified Beaverton drug crime attorney with experience in Oregon Measure 110 and ORS 475 cases. Look for local familiarity with Washington County courts and prosecutors.
2. Gather essential documents including arrest reports, warrants, search histories, and any communications from law enforcement or the court.
3. Schedule a confidential consultation to discuss the facts, potential defenses, and possible resolutions such as civil penalties or treatment programs.
4. Have the attorney review evidence packaging, lab results, and chain of custody for any suppression or suppression-related motions.
5. Develop a defense strategy and timeline for court appearances, treatment options, or civil penalty proceedings as appropriate.
6. Explore potential relief options, including expungement or rehabilitation programs, if eligible.
7. Confirm costs, payment structure, and anticipated timeline for resolution, including any potential reductions in penalties through treatment participation.

Additional Resources

• Oregon Health Authority - Measure 110: Official information on the measure, its intent, and available treatment resources. https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/CHRONICDISEASE/DA/Pages/Measure-110.aspx
• Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 475 - Controlled Substances Act: Statutory framework for drug offenses in Oregon. https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/Pages/ORS475.aspx
• Washington County Government: County-level court and law enforcement context for Beaverton residents. https://www.co.washington.or.us/

Next Steps Summary

Beaverton drug crime cases hinge on state law, treatment options, and county court processes. Start by consulting a local attorney who can navigate Measure 110 and the Controlled Substances Act, and ensure you receive tailored guidance for Washington County proceedings.