What Happens If You Evade Sentencing for a Felony Drug Charge?

Question from Jey, What Happens If You Evade Sentencing for a Felony Drug Charge?

Answer from AI:

If you’ve been indicted on a felony drug charge in Pima County, Arizona, and are considering evading sentencing, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences and legal implications of such actions. Evading sentencing can lead to additional charges, increased penalties, and further complications in your case. Here, we’ll explore what might happen and the steps you should consider taking.

Immediate Consequences of Evading Sentencing

When a defendant fails to appear for their sentencing after being indicted, several immediate actions are typically taken by the court:

1. Issuance of a Bench Warrant: The court will likely issue a bench warrant for your arrest. This warrant authorizes law enforcement to locate and arrest you on sight.
2. Increased Penalties: Evading sentencing can lead to additional charges, such as failure to appear (FTA), which may result in increased penalties on top of those for the original felony drug charge.
3. Bond Forfeiture: If you were released on bond, evading sentencing will likely result in the forfeiture of any bond posted, meaning you or your cosigners will not get the bond money back.

Long-Term Implications

The long-term implications of evading sentencing can be severe and far-reaching:

• Difficulty in Securing Employment: Having an outstanding warrant can make it difficult to pass background checks, severely limiting employment opportunities.
• Legal Complications: Evading sentencing complicates your legal situation, making it harder to negotiate plea deals or receive leniency from the court in the future.
• Increased Sentencing: When eventually caught and sentenced, the court may impose harsher penalties due to the evasion.

Steps to Consider

If you’re facing sentencing for a felony drug charge and are considering evading the court, it’s strongly recommended to reconsider and take the following steps instead:

1. Consult with a Legal Professional: An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide advice tailored to your specific situation and may be able to negotiate more favorable terms or find alternatives to incarceration.
2. Consider Plea Agreements: If possible, discuss plea agreements with your attorney, which might reduce your sentence or offer alternative penalties.
3. Explore Sentencing Alternatives: Your attorney can help explore alternatives to traditional sentencing, such as drug treatment programs, which may be more beneficial in the long run.

Legal Resources

For more information on the legal process and your rights, consider the following resources:

• The Arizona Judicial Branch provides information on court procedures, self-help resources, and legal assistance programs.
• The Pima County Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service and legal resources for individuals facing criminal charges.

Remember, while the situation may seem overwhelming, taking proactive steps to address your legal issues is crucial. Evading sentencing only compounds the problem and can lead to more severe consequences down the line. Consulting with a legal professional can provide you with the guidance needed to navigate this challenging time.