Facing a drug arrest in France can be a complex and delicate situation. In this article, we will explore the steps to take and how to behave in such circumstances, highlighting the importance of consulting an expert lawyer.
Initial Steps to Follow
If you find yourself in a drug arrest case in France, it is essential to act promptly and with caution. Here’s what you should do:
- Contact an Expert Lawyer: The crucial first step is to contact an expert lawyer who can provide you with immediate legal counsel. You can do this at any time, even through WhatsApp, to get immediate support.
- Provide Clear Details: Clearly explain what happened and why a friend, family member, or acquaintance was arrested. In addition, send all relevant documents regarding the arrested person or provide all the information you are aware of.
- Appoint a Trusted Defender: If you are seeking legal assistance for a close family member, you can appoint a trusted defender. Otherwise, a formal communication will be sent to the arrested person.
Once an expert lawyer in drug arrests in France is appointed, they can develop the best defense strategy for the specific case, ensuring the best technical defense possible.
Arrest in France: What It Means
Arrest in France represents a temporary deprivation of personal freedom. According to Article 73 of the French Code of Criminal Procedure, anyone can be arrested in flagrante delicto. The arrested person is then made available to the Judicial Police, who may decide to apply custody, known in France as “Garde à vue.”
H3: Custody (Garde à vue) in France
Garde à vue is a procedure provided for in Article 348 of the French Code of Criminal Procedure. It consists of an early deprivation of personal freedom when there is a risk of the suspect fleeing from a crime. The standard duration of custody (Garde à vue) is 24 hours, renewable once, for a total of 48 hours. However, in cases of violations of drug laws, custody can be extended to a maximum of 96 hours. In special circumstances, legal assistance can be requested even at the 72nd hour.
Possible Penalties in France for Drug Trafficking
In France, selling or trafficking drugs such as cocaine, cannabis, crack, and ecstasy can lead to severe legal consequences. Penalties include:
- Up to 10 Years of Imprisonment and €500,000 Fine: For most drug distribution or trafficking offenses (Articles 222-36 and 222-37 of the Penal Code).
- Up to 5 Years of Imprisonment and €75,000 Fine: For the illicit offering of drugs to a person for their personal consumption (Article 222-36 of the French Penal Code).
Additionally, there are more severe penalties for more serious acts, including the production of narcotics, importation, exportation, and criminal association for drug trafficking.
Why Consult an Expert Lawyer for Drug Arrests in France?
When facing criminal proceedings or drug arrests in France, it is crucial to rely on a lawyer experienced in the field. These lawyers are well-versed in the French laws that govern such offenses and can ensure adequate defense right from the beginning of the process. If you need legal assistance or counsel on this matter, you can turn to a team of expert lawyers specialized in drug arrests in France.