PCS Manufacturing Defense Attorneys

Drug manufacturing charges in Washington carry some of the most severe penalties in the state's criminal code. Under Washington law, "manufacture" of controlled substances means the production, preparation, propagation, compounding, conversion, or processing of drugs. This definition is broad -- even germinating a single marijuana seed constitutes manufacturing. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we provide vigorous defense for clients facing PCS manufacturing charges throughout Clark, Cowlitz, and Skamania Counties.

Marijuana Manufacturing

Marijuana manufacturing is classified as a Class C felony with a potential 5-year prison sentence. The standard sentencing range for first-time offenders is 0 to 6 months in jail. Even germinating a single seed constitutes manufacturing under Washington law. Only licensed growers under I-502 can legally cultivate marijuana in Washington.

• Defendants may be eligible for drug court participation
• Community custody (probation) typically imposed for up to 12 months
• School zone offenses add 24 months of additional prison time

Other Drug Manufacturing Charges

School zone and armed weapon provisions add 24 months and additional penalties respectively. Cocaine manufacturing often involves the conversion of powdered cocaine to crack, which can trigger additional charges.

Accomplice Liability

Under Washington law, individuals can face manufacturing charges for aiding, abetting, or encouraging the manufacturing process. This includes providing buildings, equipment, or acting as lookouts. Accomplice penalties are equal to the penalties faced by the principal offender, making it critical to mount a strong defense even if you were not the primary participant.

Building a Strong Defense

• Challenging the legality of search warrants and probable cause
• Disputing individual culpability in multi-occupant homes
• Questioning the lab analysis and chain of custody for physical evidence
• Arguing that precursor materials had a legitimate, lawful purpose
• Pursuing drug court eligibility and alternative sentencing

If you are under investigation or have been charged with manufacturing a controlled substance in Clark County or Southwest Washington, contact the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer immediately. Early involvement of a defense attorney can help preserve critical evidence and protect your constitutional rights from the very beginning.