In 2021, the Washington State Supreme Court ruled that the state’s existing drug possession law was unconstitutional because it did not require any proof of intent or knowledge of possession. This was deemed a violation of due process. As such, the State Supreme Court ruled that possessing controlled substances could no longer be considered an automatic crime if there was no proof of intent to possess.
Washington’s drug possession laws after the State v. Blake decision led to the temporary decriminalization of drug possession. However, that decision did not last forever. In 2023, a new drug possession statute called the Blake Fix was signed into law. Now, most drug possession crimes are considered misdemeanors.
If you are facing drug crime charges in Washington, the legal team at Tim Rusk Attorneys can help you. We know how devastating a drug arrest can be, and we’re here to remove the legal burden from your shoulders. Call (855) 846-7875 or contact Tim Rusk Attorneys online to schedule a free consultation.
Aftermath of the Blake Fix
With the legal implementation of the Blake Fix, police are now once again free to enforce drug possession penalties, although those penalties are typically less severe. If you are arrested for drug crimes, you may want to reach out to a drug lawyer in Tacoma. Depending on the nature of your case, you may be dealing with potential felony charges.
Some of the other elements of the State Supreme Court’s new drug possession legislation include:
- Significant support to individuals dealing with substance abuse disorders
- Additional funding for housing support
- Focus on providing support for educational and crisis centers
- Newfound flexibility for prosecutors and courts to find appropriate recovery paths for defendants
Above all, the most recent drug possession legislation in Washington prioritizes healing and recovery. It also softens the penalties for certain drug offenses throughout the state. Even if the charges you’re facing are now less severe, you should still retain appropriate legal counsel.
Reach Out to a Drug Crime Lawyer From Tim Rusk Attorneys Today
Facing drug crime charges can be one of the most damaging and potentially harmful situations you ever find yourself in. Throughout it all, you’ll want someone by your side who understands how high the stakes are for you.
The last thing you want is to end up going against a seasoned prosecutor without any legal help of your own. Without an attorney, you’re much more likely to lose your case and face the harshest penalties possible. You need to hire a drug crime lawyer to protect your rights and build your defense.
Our legal team at Tim Rusk Attorneys understands how overwhelming and stressful a drug possession arrest can be.
We know exactly what kind of legal help you’ll need to fight your post-Blake drug possession charges. Our experienced drug crime lawyers can help build your case, develop a strong defense strategy, and ensure you are never taken advantage of by the prosecution. We strive to defend your interests and protect you from legal consequences. Give us a call at (855) 846-7875 or contact Tim Rusk Attorneys online for a free consultation.
Visit our Criminal Defense Law Office
Tim Rusk Attorneys – Tacoma, WA
1105 Tacoma Ave S, Suite C, Tacoma, WA 98402, United States
(253) 316 8468