Drug Charges in Michigan Are Serious — I Take Them Seriously Too
I’m Shawn Haff, and if you’re facing drug charges in Grand Rapids or anywhere in West Michigan, you need to know two things: the penalties are severe, and a conviction can follow you for the rest of your life. But I’ve been defending people against drug charges for over 25 years — and I know how to fight these cases.
Michigan drug laws carry steep penalties. Possession alone can mean jail time, probation, loss of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record that affects your ability to get a job, find housing, or continue your education. Delivery or manufacturing charges can mean years in prison. The prosecutors in Kent County push hard on drug cases — you need someone who pushes back harder.
The consultation is free.
Drug Charges I Defend
I handle every type of drug charge in Michigan, including:
Drug Possession
Marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, and controlled substance analogs
Possession with Intent to Deliver
When prosecutors claim the quantity or packaging suggests you intended to sell
Delivery / Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance
Felony charges that can carry up to 20 years in prison
Cocaine Possession
Schedule II substance with penalties up to 4 years for simple possession
Heroin Possession
Schedule I narcotic with severe mandatory penalties
Methamphetamine Possession
Meth cases in West Michigan carry harsh sentencing, especially in Allegan County where meth drives ~35% of felony cases
Prescription Drug Charges
Oxycontin, Vicodin, Adderall, and other controlled prescriptions
Maintaining a Drug House
A 2-year felony that prosecutors often add on top of possession charges
Drugged Driving (OUID)
Operating under the influence of drugs, including marijuana
How I Fight Drug Cases
Every drug case has potential weaknesses. I look for every one of them:
Illegal Search & Seizure
The Fourth Amendment protects you. If police searched your car, your home, or your person without a valid warrant or legal exception, I will file a motion to suppress that evidence. No evidence, no case.
Challenging Possession
“Possession” in Michigan means you knew the drugs were there and had control over them. Being in the same car or the same house as drugs doesn’t automatically make them yours. I challenge the prosecution’s theory of constructive possession in every case where it applies.
Questioning Lab Results
Prosecutors must prove the substance is actually what they claim it is. I demand lab reports, challenge chain-of-custody procedures, and question whether testing was conducted properly.
Negotiating Alternatives to Prison
For many drug cases, treatment is more appropriate than incarceration. I’ve successfully negotiated Drug Court placements, 7411 deferrals (which keep convictions off your record for first-time drug offenses), and HYTA agreements for younger defendants. These programs can mean the difference between a prison sentence and a clean record.
Michigan Drug Penalties at a Glance
| Charge | Classification | Maximum Penalty |
| Marijuana possession (personal use) | Misdemeanor | 93 days jail, $500 fine |
| Cocaine / heroin possession | Felony | Up to 4 years prison, $25,000 fine |
| Meth possession | Felony | Up to 10 years prison, $15,000 fine |
| Possession with intent to deliver | Felony | Up to 20 years prison, $25,000 fine |
| Delivery / manufacturing | Felony | Up to 20 years prison, $25,000 fine |
| Maintaining a drug house | Felony | Up to 2 years prison, $25,000 fine |
Penalties increase significantly with prior convictions and near-school-zone enhancements.
The 7411 Deferral — Your Best Shot at a Clean Record
Michigan’s MCL 333.7411 allows first-time drug offenders to avoid a conviction entirely. Under 7411, the judge defers your guilty plea. If you complete probation, drug testing, and any required treatment, the charge is dismissed and does not appear on your public record.
Not every defendant qualifies, and not every judge grants it. I’ve secured 7411 deferrals for dozens of clients in Kent County. If you’re eligible, I will fight to get it for you.
Drug Courts in West Michigan
Drug courts offer intensive treatment-based programs as alternatives to incarceration. I regularly work with:
Kent County Drug Court
Serves felony drug offenders in the 17th Circuit Court
Ottawa County Adult Drug Treatment Court
70% graduation rate, overseen by Judge Mark Feyen
Allegan County Drug Court
Handles methamphetamine and substance abuse felonies
Ionia County Mental Health Court
For defendants with co-occurring mental health and substance issues
Getting into drug court requires the right advocacy at the right time. I know when to push for it and how to present your case for admission.
Where I Defend Drug Cases
I represent clients facing drug charges in courts across West Michigan:
Kent County
63rd District Court, 62A, 62B, and 17th Circuit Court (Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Walker, Grandville, Rockford, Alto, Standale)
Ottawa County
58th District Court and 20th Circuit Court (Grand Haven, Holland, Hudsonville)
Allegan County
57th District Court and 48th Circuit Court
Barry County
56B District Court and 5th Circuit Court (Hastings)
Ionia County
64A District Court and 8th Circuit Court
Do Not Talk to Police Without Me
If you are being investigated for a drug crime, do not make a statement to police. Do not consent to a search. Do not try to explain yourself. Politely say: “I want to speak to my attorney before answering any questions.” Then call me.
Every word you say can and will be used against you. I’ve seen countless cases where a client’s own statement became the prosecution’s strongest evidence. Don’t let that happen to you.
Call Me Right Now — 24/7
Drug charges move fast. Evidence gets processed. Prosecutors file motions. The longer you wait, the harder it gets. I offer free consultations any time — day or night.
Call 616-438-6719. The call is free. The advice could save your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you get caught with drugs in Michigan?
Drug penalties in Michigan depend on the substance and amount. Simple possession of a controlled substance is a felony that can carry up to 4 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Possession with intent to deliver can mean up to 20 years. However, first-time offenders may qualify for the 7411 deferral, which allows the charge to be dismissed after completing probation. Contact a Grand Rapids drug crime attorney for a free case evaluation.
Can a drug charge be expunged in Michigan?
Yes. Many drug convictions can be expunged under Michigan’s Clean Slate Act. Additionally, first-time offenders who receive a 7411 deferral never have a conviction on their public record in the first place. Attorney Shawn Haff at Criminal Defense Attorney Shawn Haff has a 100% expungement success rate and can evaluate your eligibility.
What is a 7411 deferral in Michigan?
MCL 333.7411 is a Michigan law that allows first-time drug offenders to have their case deferred. Instead of entering a conviction, the judge places you on probation. If you successfully complete all requirements — including drug testing and treatment — the charge is dismissed and does not appear on your public criminal record.
Should I talk to police if I’m arrested for drug possession?
No. You have the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. Politely tell the officer you want to speak with your attorney before answering any questions. Do not consent to a search of your vehicle, home, or belongings. Then call criminal defense attorney Shawn Haff at 616-438-6719 immediately — available 24/7.
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