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Flagstaff Drug Crimes Attorney Defending Your Freedom & Your Future

A Drug Charge in Arizona Can Change Everything — But It Doesn’t Have To

If you were arrested for drug possession, possession with intent, or another narcotics-related offense in Flagstaff or Northern Arizona, you’re likely facing fear, uncertainty, and urgent questions about your future. Arizona takes drug crimes seriously — even small amounts of illegal substances can bring felony consequences, and “intent to sell” allegations can escalate the stakes dramatically.


But with the right defense, many people avoid prison, avoid a felony conviction, or even get their case dismissed through diversion programs or strong constitutional challenges.


Whether you’re an NAU student, a local resident, or traveling along I-40 or I-17 when stopped, you deserve a lawyer who scrutinizes every detail and fights for your second chance.

 What We Help With

Simple Possession (Marijuana & Other Drugs)

Arizona allows adults 21+ to possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana — but possession above legal limits, possession under age 21, or possession of other illegal substances (meth, heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, LSD) remains criminal. We defend against both misdemeanors and felonies.

Possession With Intent to Sell

Charges can escalate based on packaging, quantity, or cash present — even when no actual sales occurred. We push to reduce these charges to simple possession when evidence of intent is weak.

Drug Paraphernalia Charges

Often filed alongside possession charges. We work to dismiss or minimize these when possible.

Prescription Drug Offenses

Unauthorized possession, fraud, or distribution of medications like opioids or Adderall can lead to serious penalties. We build strategies based on medical context and evidentiary issues.

Campus or Student-Related Drug Charges

NAU dorm searches, campus police encounters, and student-specific issues require careful handling to avoid academic consequences, especially if there are minors involved.

Traffic Stops & Interstate Arrests (I-40 / I-17 Corridor)

Northern Arizona sees many major stops by DPS. We analyze whether searches were lawful — many drug cases depend entirely on Fourth Amendment violations.

Federal Drug Charges on Federal Land

If drugs were found in a national park or other federal area, charges may proceed in federal court.

Mistakes That Can Make Drug Charges Much Harder to Fight

  • Assuming the evidence can’t be challenged.
    Illegal searches often lead to suppressed evidence.


  • Talking to police without a lawyer.
    Statements can be used against you, even if misunderstood.


  • Accepting a plea too quickly.
    You may qualify for diversion, reductions, or dismissal.


  • Thinking a felony is unavoidable.
    Many first-time cases can be kept off a person’s permanent record.



  • Failing to act fast enough.
    Early intervention preserves diversion eligibility and strengthens defense options.
Hands holding pills, handcuffed to a shot glass. Cigarettes, flask, and pill bottle on black surface.

How We Defend Drug Charges in Northern Arizona

Optional Steps:

01

Fourth Amendment Review

Searches of cars, backpacks, dorm rooms, and pockets must be lawful. Illegal searches often lead to case dismissal.

02

Charge Analysis & Reduction Strategy

We work to reclassify overcharged “intent to sell” cases as simple possession when evidence is weak.

03

Diversion & Treatment Options

First-time defendants may qualify for programs that can result in dismissal upon completion.

04

Negotiation With Prosecutors

We highlight mitigating factors like clean history, student status, or rehabilitation efforts.

05

Trial-Ready Defense When Needed

We prepare cases for trial when negotiations fail or constitutional violations support aggressive litigation.

If You’re Not Sure What to Do Next

If you’re afraid of a felony record

Many drug cases — especially first-time offenses — can result in dismissal or reduced misdemeanor outcomes.

If police found drugs after a search

We examine whether the stop, detention, or search was lawful. An illegal search can end the entire case.

If you were charged with “intent to sell”

We fight inflated charges and work to prove personal use when appropriate.

If you’re a student worried about school consequences

We protect your academic record and provide guidance for university disciplinary processes.

If you’re from out of state

We coordinate court appearances to minimize travel and confusion.

Two speech bubbles, one with a question mark.

Common Questions About Drug Charges in Arizona

  • Is marijuana legal in Arizona now?

    It is prosecuted in federal court, follows federal procedures, and may involve different rights (like bench trials instead of jury trials).

  • Will I go to jail for a drug possession charge?

    Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through diversion or reduced charges.

  • Can the police search my car without permission?

    Only under certain circumstances. If the search was unlawful, evidence can be thrown out.

  • What if the drugs weren’t mine?

    Possession must be proven. We challenge improper assumptions about “constructive possession.”

  • Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?

    Yes — reductions are common when evidence or circumstances support them.

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 Protect Your Record, Your Freedom, and Your Future Starting Today

Clients across Sedona, Williams, Page, Tuba City, and Winslow rely on the Law Office of Matthew J. Poirier, PLLC to defend drug cases with strategy, precision, and dedication.


Whether you were caught with a small amount or accused of something more serious, we fight to safeguard your future.