Best Drug Crime Lawyers in Japan

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Liberty Bell Law Office
Yokohama, Japan

English
LibertyBell Law Group is a criminal defense firm based in Woodland Hills, California, that handles high stakes cases across federal and state courts. The firm focuses on serious offenses including federal crimes, sex crimes, fraud and other complex charges, employing meticulous investigation and...

Founded in 1995
2 people in their team
English
Shiono Miura Law Office is a boutique Osaka-based law practice with a history dating back to 1995, when it was established as Shiono Takashi Law Office. Through successive name changes to Shiono Yamashita Law Office and most recently to Shiono Miura Law Office in April 2024, the firm has maintained...
Hidaka Law Office
Tokyo, Japan

English
Hidaka Law Office is a Tokyo based law firm led by Masami Hidaka, a lawyer with a strong academic and professional background. She graduated from the University of Tokyo, completed a Master of Arts in Humanities, and earned a legal doctorate from Meiji University. Her career includes roles as a...
Fukuoka, Japan

Founded in 2025
English
Odin Total Law Office is a newly established Japanese law firm founded in 2025 and based in Fukuoka, offering practical legal solutions to businesses and individuals.The firm concentrates on corporate and commercial matters including startup support, mergers and acquisitions, IT/Web related law and...
Yokohama Partner Law Office
Yokohama, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
When I was little, I loved "The Crying Red Demon." This is a fairy tale by Hirosuke Hamada. Red Demon wants to get along with humans, but everyone is afraid of him. So, I put up a sign in front of my house to try to get people to come visit me.I am a kind-hearted demon.Anyone is welcome to come.We...
Fukuoka, Japan

Founded in 2000
English
Kinoshita Law Office is a boutique law firm based in Fukuoka, Japan, established in 2000. The two-lawyer team provides corporate and commercial counsel as well as civil litigation support, serving businesses and professional clients with practical, results-focused advice. The firm handles corporate...
Pacifico Law Office
Anan, Japan

Founded in 2024
English
Pacifico Law Office, based in Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, provides accessible legal guidance for everyday life issues. The firm focuses on divorce and family matters, inheritance, criminal matters, debt related issues, labor disputes, and corporate matters, delivering practical...
Karankoe Law Office
Sendai, Japan

Founded in 2016
1 person in their team
English
Karankoe Law Office is a boutique law practice based in Sendai, Japan, focusing on civil matters, family law, corporate matters, and criminal defense. Founded in January 2016, the firm provides precise legal guidance and effective representation to address a wide range of client needs. Its practice...

Founded in 1998
English
KAWAI & partners - 河井耕治法律事務所 is a boutique law firm based in Okinawa, Japan, with a founding history dating back to 1998 when Koji Kawai established the practice in Nagasaki. The firm delivers focused legal services to businesses and individuals, combining local insight with...

Founded in 2022
English
Morishita Total Law Office is a Tokyo-based multi-disciplinary law firm that provides focused counsel across Real Estate, Corporate & Commercial, Employment & Labor, Family and Criminal matters. The firm emphasizes practical, result oriented strategies with rapid initial action, careful case...
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About Drug Crime Law in Japan

Drug crime in Japan is governed by some of the strictest laws in the world. The Japanese legal framework around drug offenses includes the Stimulant Drugs Control Law, Cannabis Control Law, Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law, and Opium Law, among others. The possession, use, production, and trafficking of controlled substances are treated severely, with heavy penalties and imprisonment possible even for first-time offenders. Japan's zero-tolerance policy reflects its commitment to maintaining public safety and order.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Individuals may require legal assistance in drug crime situations for several reasons:

  • Arrest or Investigation: If you are arrested or under investigation for drug-related activities, a lawyer can protect your rights and advise on legal procedures.
  • Charges Filed: If charges are formally brought against you, legal representation can be crucial in building a defense or negotiating plea deals.
  • Legal Advice: Those facing accusations or involved in drug-related incidents may need guidance on their legal position and potential consequences.
  • Expungement of Records: A lawyer can assist in clearing your criminal record if eligible, reducing the long-term impact on your life.
  • International Cases: Foreign nationals may face deportation proceedings, making specialized legal assistance necessary.

Local Laws Overview

Japan's drug laws focus heavily on prevention and punishment, with key elements including:

  • Possession and Use: Both are illegal, with severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
  • Trafficking and Distribution: These offenses attract harsher sentences, especially for repeated or large-scale activities.
  • Manufacturing and Cultivation: Illegal production or cultivation of controlled substances is a serious crime under Japanese law.
  • Law Enforcement: The police are empowered to conduct thorough investigations, including search and seizure, and trials typically have high conviction rates.
  • Age and Nationality Considerations: Penalties apply similarly regardless of age or nationality, though foreign nationals face additional immigration consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What substances are considered illegal in Japan?

Japan's controlled substances include cannabis, cocaine, heroin, MDMA, methamphetamine, and certain prescription medications without proper authorization.

What are the typical penalties for drug offenses in Japan?

Penalties can range from fines and short-term detention for minor offenses to lengthy prison sentences for serious or repeated crimes, along with potential deportation for foreign nationals.

Is medicinal use of cannabis legal in Japan?

No, Japan does not currently recognize the medicinal use of cannabis, and possession or use of cannabis products is illegal.

Can a foreign national be deported for drug offenses?

Yes, foreign nationals convicted of drug crimes in Japan may face deportation and subsequent entry bans.

How long does a drug-related criminal record last in Japan?

A criminal record will persist unless expunged, which is not easy to achieve and may require legal assistance.

Can police search my home without a warrant in Japan?

Generally, police require a warrant, but there are exceptions in cases of flagrante delicto or urgent necessity.

What should I do if accused of a drug crime in Japan?

Seek immediate legal advice and refrain from making statements until consulting with a lawyer.

Are drug tests commonly used by the police in Japan?

Yes, police may use drug testing as part of their investigation processes, especially during arrests for suspected drug use.

Can I appeal a drug crime conviction in Japan?

Yes, you have the right to appeal a conviction, and a lawyer can assist in navigating the appeals process.

Will drug crime charges affect my employment in Japan?

Yes, employers can terminate employment based on criminal charges, and a conviction could make future employment difficult.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, you may consider contacting the following:

  • Japan Legal Support Center: Provides information on legal procedures and connects individuals with legal professionals.
  • The Embassy or Consulate: If you’re a foreign national, your embassy can sometimes provide legal assistance or advice.
  • Nihon Bengoshi Rengōkai (Japan Federation of Bar Associations): Can recommend lawyers who specialize in criminal defense.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a drug-related issue, consider taking these steps:

  1. Contact a qualified criminal defense attorney, preferably one who specializes in drug crimes.
  2. Prepare any relevant documents and a timeline of events related to your case.
  3. Follow your lawyer’s guidance, especially regarding courtroom appearances and interactions with law enforcement.
  4. Consider the potential consequences and discuss possible strategies with your legal counsel.
  5. If you're in need of financial assistance for legal fees, inquire about legal aid services that might be available.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Japan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Drug Crime, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.