How Prior Drug Convictions Impact Your Current Charge In Louisiana

If you’re facing new drug charges, one of the most important things you can do right now is focus on the present. If your case is still open, I’ll guide you on immediate steps to help secure the best possible outcome. And if your case is behind you but you’re concerned about what the future holds, remember: no matter your age, there is always a chance to start fresh and move forward.

While the details matter, focusing solely on the past can be discouraging. Instead, let’s look at the bigger picture—your defense, your future, and meaningful paths forward. I’ll be with you every step of the way, keeping you informed and helping you stay proactive so you can maximize your chances of a positive result. Prior mistakes don’t have to define you, and I’m here to help you work toward a second chance and protect your rights.

Keep reading to discover…

• How prior convictions apply to drug charges in Louisiana.
• The long-term consequences of prior convictions.
• How a seasoned, skilled attorney can help you navigate the law in light of prior convictions.

What Is A Habitual Offender In Louisiana? How Does It Apply To My Drug Charges?

A habitual offender is someone who has multiple felony convictions (even as few as two), and having this status increases the penalties you face for drug-related charges. Additional penalties can apply depending on what kind of previous charges you faced and whether they were violent charges.

Multiple convictions lead to multiple sentencing, and if you have priors, it’s incredibly important to have a skilled lawyer helping you navigate the legal system in your defense.

Can A Prior Conviction From Another State Affect My Case In Louisiana?

Yes. For one, a district attorney will generally look at your previous criminal history when evaluating what kind of plea offer to make you. This includes any out-of-state convictions. The district attorney can then take these charges into consideration and use them against you.

If a hearing is called to prove your status as a habitual offender, the district attorney will have to prove the conviction, order copies of documents, and retain experts to prove your identity in connection to that out-of-state conviction. These requirements can sometimes be a barrier for a district attorney, but they’re not impossible to overcome.

Attorney Greg Webb is a hard-working, compassionate criminal defense lawyer serving Louisiana. For over 15 years, he’s helped clients just like you get second chances, protect their legal rights, and move forward with greater hope and clarity.

Have questions, or in need of excellent legal help? Reach out to the Law Office of Greg Webb at (225) 483-0086 for an initial consultation today.

What Are The Long-Term Consequences Of Having Multiple Drug Convictions In Louisiana?

Depending on the circumstances, previous convictions can make you ineligible for parole. Priors can prejudice district attorneys against you, causing them to consider you a less likely candidate for rehabilitation and impacting the type of plea deals you are offered.

Having said that, every case is unique, and a good defense attorney will still work hard to secure the best possible outcome, even with priors. It’s important to remember that even people with prior drug convictions can have success with treatment programs, rehabilitation, job opportunities, and living a full and healthy life.

What Are My Options For Avoiding Mandatory Minimum Sentences With Prior Convictions In Louisiana?

Your very best option is to have a zealous, dedicated, and strong-willed attorney on your side. Your lawyer can work to reduce those charges to a level where mandatory minimums are no longer applicable. The circumstances of your case, background, prior charges, and current charges can all be examined, and a good attorney can argue meaningfully on your behalf.

Our Years Of Experience, At Your Service

I have been able to successfully argue for leniency for a number of clients in tough situations. I’ve been able to get clients’ charges dismissed who were on probation or parole, and I have successfully gotten clients on probation into drug court and other helpful rehabilitation programs.

Something to keep in mind is that criminal cases involve three main elements: facts, the law, and my client as a person. I delve into all three elements as I move to trial, examining each case for factual issues, legal or constitutional issues, and positive contributions that my client brings to the table, such as their success in rehab and their determination to do better.

If any one of these elements can be brought forward compellingly, the prosecution’s case against my client begins to fall, and we have an avenue toward a strong defense.

And as an attorney, my proudest moments involve helping people get those second chances at life. Hearing back from people I’ve helped letting me know how they’re doing, that they’re raising their kids and are now sober, is immensely rewarding.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?

For more information on Prior Drug Convictions In Louisiana, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (225) 483-0086 today.