Minneapolis Drug Crime Attorneys
Facing Drug Charges in Minneapolis? We’re Available 24/7
Being charged with a drug crime in Minneapolis can feel overwhelming, especially when you don't know what to expect next. Minnesota treats drug offenses seriously, and even a first-time charge can carry consequences that follow you for years — lost job opportunities, a damaged reputation, and in some cases, significant jail time. If you or someone you love has been arrested on a drug-related charge, working with an experienced Minneapolis drug crime lawyer as early as possible can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.
Tamburino Law Group, our attorneys have handled hundreds of criminal jury trials throughout Hennepin County and the greater Twin Cities metro involving drug charges ranging from simple possession to serious federal trafficking allegations. With more than 100 years of combined legal experience and a team that includes former prosecutors, we understand both sides of the courtroom — and we use that insight to build the strongest possible defense for our clients.
State vs. Federal Drug Charges
Drug charges in Minnesota are generally filed in the county where the alleged offense occurred, and how a case is handled can vary meaningfully from one courthouse to the next. Our attorneys have appeared on drug crime matters throughout the Twin Cities metro, including:
- Hennepin County District Court (4th Judicial District)
- Ramsey County District Court (2nd Judicial District)
- Anoka County District Court (10th Judicial District)
- Dakota, Washington, Scott, and Carver County District Courts
However, not all drug cases in Minnesota stay in state court. Depending on the quantity involved, whether the alleged conduct crossed state lines, or whether federal agencies (DEA, FBI, ATF) were involved in the investigation, a drug charge can be prosecuted federally rather than under Minnesota law.
The difference is significant. Federal drug crimes are governed by mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines that leave far less room for judicial discretion than the state system. A federal trafficking charge, for example, can carry a mandatory minimum sentence regardless of a defendant's criminal history, and federal sentencing guidelines weigh factors — like drug quantity, prior convictions, and role in the offense — differently than Minnesota's degree-based system.
Our firm represented clients in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota and understands how federal prosecutors build drug cases, including conspiracy charges that can apply even to defendants who never personally handled the controlled substance.
Why Choose Tamburino Law Group for Your Drug Defense?
When your freedom and future are on the line, the credentials and experience of your trial team matter:
- Board-Certified Defense Leadership: Joe Tamburino is 1 of only 50 lawyers in Minnesota holding the MSBA Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist designation.
- Insider Prosecutorial Knowledge: Several of our attorneys started their careers as state prosecutors and public defenders. We anticipate the prosecution's tactics before they bring them to trial.
- Hundreds of Jury Trials Handled: We are seasoned courtroom litigators who prepare every case for trial rather than settling for unfavorable plea deals.
- National Media Authority, Local Roots: Frequently featured for legal analysis on CBS News, WCCO, Court TV, and Law & Crime Network, our firm routinely practices in courtrooms throughout Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, and surrounding counties.
- 24/7 Immediate Response: Criminal investigations and arrests do not happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. We are reachable day or night.
Drug charges move quickly, and the decisions made in the first few days after an arrest can shape the entire outcome of your case. Tamburino Law Group has defended clients against drug charges ranging from simple possession to federal trafficking, and our attorneys are available 24/7 to talk through your situation.
Call (612) 444-5020 to set up a time to meet with our Minneapolis drug crime defense lawyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is a first-time drug possession charge in Minneapolis?
It depends on the substance and quantity involved. Some first-time charges are misdemeanors, while others — particularly those involving larger quantities or more dangerous substances — can be charged as felonies.
Can drug charges be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, in many cases. Outcomes depend on the strength of the evidence, whether constitutional violations occurred during the arrest, and whether diversion or treatment programs are available.
Do I need a lawyer if I was arrested with someone else's drugs?
Yes. Cases involving shared possession are often contestable, and an attorney can challenge whether the prosecution can prove you knowingly possessed the substance.
Will I go to jail for a first drug offense in Minneapolis?
Not necessarily. Many first-time, lower-level drug charges result in probation, fines, or treatment rather than jail time — especially if diversion or drug court programs are available. Jail time becomes more likely with larger quantities, prior convictions, or charges involving distribution.
Does a drug charge show up on background checks right away?
Yes, an arrest or charge can appear on background checks even before a case is resolved. This is one reason it's important to address the charge quickly and, later, to pursue expungement if you're eligible once the case is closed.
Can I be charged with a drug crime in Minneapolis if the drugs weren't found on me directly?
Yes. Minnesota law allows for "constructive possession" charges, meaning you can be charged if drugs are found in a space you control — like your car, home, or bag — even if they weren't on your person. These cases are often defensible, particularly when the space was shared with others.
What's the difference between a drug possession charge and a distribution charge?
Possession charges generally involve having a controlled substance for personal use, while distribution charges involve evidence suggesting intent to sell or deliver drugs to others — such as packaging materials, scales, large cash amounts, or communications about sales. Distribution charges typically carry significantly harsher penalties.
Can out-of-state residents be charged with drug crimes in Minneapolis?
Yes. If the alleged offense occurred in Minneapolis or elsewhere in Hennepin County, Minnesota law applies regardless of where the defendant lives. Out-of-state residents facing Minnesota drug charges should still retain a local attorney familiar with Minnesota courts and procedures.
What happens at my first court appearance after a drug arrest?
Your first appearance, often called an arraignment, is typically where formal charges are read, bail or release conditions are addressed, and a future court date is set. Having an attorney present at this stage can help protect your rights and may influence bail conditions.
Can a drug crime charge affect my immigration status?
Yes, certain drug convictions can have immigration consequences, including impacts on visa status, green card applications, or naturalization. If you are not a U.S. citizen, it's especially important to consult an attorney who can evaluate how a drug charge may affect your immigration situation.
Information About Minnesota Drug Crimes
Drug crimes in Minnesota cover a wide range of conduct, and the way a case is charged depends heavily on the substance involved, the quantity, and the circumstances of the arrest. Our Minneapolis drug crime lawyers regularly represent clients facing charges such as:
- Drug possession — being found with a controlled substance, whether on your person, in your vehicle, or in a shared space
- Drug possession with intent to distribute — a more serious charge based on the quantity of the substance or other evidence suggesting distribution, such as packaging materials or large amounts of cash
- Drug distribution — allegations of selling, delivering, or providing drugs to another person
- Drug trafficking — the transportation or sale of larger quantities of drugs, often carrying significantly harsher penalties
- Drug smuggling — moving controlled substances across state or international lines, which can trigger both state and federal charges
- Controlled substance crimes involving prescription medication — unlawful possession or distribution of prescription drugs without a valid prescription
Legal Defense to Drug Crimes
An experienced defense attorney can raise several strategies depending on the facts of your case. Common defenses in Minnesota drug cases include:
- Challenging the legality of the stop or search. Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause before conducting a stop or search. If this standard wasn't met, evidence obtained as a result may be suppressed.
- Disputing possession. In cases involving shared spaces — a car, apartment, or between roommates — it may be possible to show that the drugs did not belong to you or that you were unaware of their presence.
- Questioning lab testing and chain of custody. The prosecution must prove that the substance in question is in fact an illegal drug. Errors in testing procedures or gaps in the chain of custody can undermine the state's case.
- Negotiating for reduced charges or diversion. For first-time or lower-level offenses, alternatives like pretrial diversion or drug court may allow for treatment instead of a conviction.
Diversion, Drug Court, and Treatment-Based Alternatives in Minnesota
For many people facing a first-time or lower-level drug charge, incarceration isn't the only possible outcome. Minnesota counties offer several treatment- and diversion-based programs that can result in reduced charges, or in some cases, a dismissal upon successful completion.
- Drug Court programs — available in several Twin Cities-area counties, combining judicial supervision with substance abuse treatment as an alternative to traditional prosecution
- Pretrial diversion — allows first-time, low-level offenders to avoid a conviction by completing specific conditions, such as treatment or community service
- Stay of adjudication or stay of imposition — sentencing structures that can keep a conviction off a defendant's record if probation terms are met
Not every case qualifies, and eligibility often depends on the charge, the county, and the defendant's criminal history. Because these programs are handled differently across jurisdictions, having an attorney familiar with the specific diversion options available in Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, Washington, Scott, and Carver Counties can directly affect whether this path is available to you.
Contact Tamburino Law Group at (612) 444-5020 to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Have Questions?
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1. Don’t Talk to the Police!
It’s crucial to know that while you should remain respectful with authorities, you have the right to remain silent. This a right protected by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which makes it clear individuals are protected from being compelled to be a witness against him / herself in criminal matters.
It’s important to note that:
- Talking will not help you avoid an arrest. If law enforcement has probable cause to arrest you, then they will arrest you.
- By speaking, you risk making a confession or providing information that can be used to indict you, even unknowingly.
- Even if you feel that information being discussed is “harmless,” it is still in your best interest to invoke your Fifth Amendment right.
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2. Ask for a Lawyer!As soon as you can you should elect your right to have a defense attorney present. A Minnesota criminal defense lawyer or public defender can ensure the police do not violate your rights and help you avoid saying anything incriminating during questioning. Tamburino Law Group is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so that we can be by your side whenever you need us. Call now!
MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR OUR CLIENTS
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“The work Joe and his team did really helped me change my life”
“You guys probably don't hear this enough. The work Joe and his team did really helped me change my life.”- D.M. -
“I don’t know where I’d be without his help”
“I would like to outwardly thank Tyler Dahlen for helping me get through my situation”- P.V. -
“I'm deeply thankful for the team at Tamburino Law Group”
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Hannah for her expert guidance and representation throughout the case.”- D.Y. -
“Thank you and your law firm, Mr. Tamburino.”
“If ever I have anyone who needs a lawyer I will most definitely recommend you and your firm.”- C.V. -
“Outstanding and professional”
“Thank you for everything you have done to help me with this court case.”- J.B. -
“Great care and compassion.”
I don't know any lawyers who would do what Tamburino Law Group did for their client. Their care and concern show a great deal about their heart and compassion for others. Thank you for being so supportive.- R.H. -
“This settlement changed my life.”
I came to Tamburino Law Group in 2018 after a severe accident left me unable to work and in constant pain. The firm helped me secure a $700,000 award, far exceeding my expectations. Their tireless efforts have completely changed my life, covering medical bills and future wage loss.- K.M. -
“I cannot thank you enough for your help!”
“Your patience, knowledge and especially your attention to detail was admirable.”
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Case Dismissed Possession of Drugs in Vehicle
Attorney Hannah Martin represented a client who was charged with drug possession after officers searched her friend’s vehicle when she was a passenger.
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Misdemeanor DWI
Client was pulled over for speeding, and eventually charged with driving under the influence even though his blood alcohol content was .07 and less than the legal limit. Attorney Hillary Parsons set the matter for trial because she believed that the State could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that client was actually under the influence of alcohol. On the morning of trial, the State agreed to resolve the matter as a petty misdemeanor careless driving. Because petty misdemeanors are not considered crimes
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1st Degree Sale, Possession of a Dangerous Weapon
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Charge Dismissed HRO – DISMISSED
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No Jail Time DWI 2nd Degree – No Jail Time
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Case Dismissed Disorderly Conduct
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Case Dismissal Assault ChargesAttorney Joe Tamburino represented a client in Anoka County on multiple assault charges involving multiple alleged victims. Joe litigated the matter for almost a year, and on the day of trial he got the case dismissed. His client was very happy.
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Permit to Carry Reinstated Wrongfully Rescinded Permit to Carry
Attorney Karmen McQuitty got her client’s permit to carry reinstated after it was wrongfully rescinded. Her client received a letter from the Sheriff saying that their permit was revoked. The Sheriff was wrong on the law, and Karmen advocated for the reinstatement and won. The County is reinstating the permit to carry and client is thrilled with this result.
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Domestic Assault Dismissed
Attorney Karmen McQuitty represented her client who was charged with domestic assault after an incident that occurred at the client’s home. Damage within the home was one reason why the prosecutor had charged the case. Karmen worked with the prosecutor to clarify the circumstances and because of her diligent work, the prosecutor dismissed the charges early on in the case. The DANCO was cancelled and her client’s family was reunited.
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Expungement Granted
Attorney Karmen McQuitty petitioned the court to expunge her client’s Civil Commitment record. Because the court granted the expungement, Karmen’s client is able to pursue a career without the stigma of this record. Client was thrilled with this result.
Real People.
Real Results.
- Possession of Drugs in Vehicle
- DWI
- 1st Degree Sale, Possession of a Dangerous Weapon
- HRO – DISMISSED
- DWI 2nd Degree – No Jail Time
- Disorderly Conduct
- Assault Charges
- Wrongfully Rescinded Permit to Carry
- Domestic Assault Dismissed
- Expungement Granted