If you're pulled over by the police and arrested with drugs in the car, it can be horrible. But if you have your kids in the car, it can be a horrifying experience. You're undoubtedly worried about what will happen to your children and your criminal charges. But you don't have to handle this on your own. The Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm can help guide you through your criminal charges and a potential investigation from child protective services called a Childline investigation.

Driving Under the Influence

If you've also been using illegal drugs while driving, you could face charges of driving under the influence. Under Pennsylvania law, “drugged driving” is illegal. You cannot drive, operate, or guide a motor vehicle if under the influence of “solvent or noxious” substances or if your blood contains:

• A Schedule I, II, or III controlled substance not prescribed to you by a licensed physician,
• A combination of alcohol and drugs that impairs your safe operation of the vehicle, or
• Metabolites of controlled substances.

Driving under the influence is typically a misdemeanor charge in Pennsylvania, but it can be a felony if it involves a serious accident, injury, or death.

Drug Possession in Pennsylvania

If the police find drugs in your car during a stop, you could face charges for drug possession or possession with intent to distribute. You could be facing misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the drug, the quantity, and the type of possession. Charges for possession with intent to distribute are typically more serious than simple possession. But even a misdemeanor conviction can carry serious jail time and a criminal record that will follow you for years.

Children During and After Arrest

If you're arrested with drugs and your kids in the car, it will likely trigger a Childline investigation. A Childline investigation happens after the Childline Abuse Registry receives a report of suspected child abuse or neglect. During the arrest, the police will likely call a social worker or a close family member to get the children. After that, a Child, Youth, and Family Services agency will investigate and determine whether there is abuse or neglect in the home. The agency's goal is to protect children, but going into an investigation assuming a good outcome without legal assistance can be a mistake.

Hire the Experienced Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm

If you're facing criminal drug possession, driving under the influence, or facing a child protective service investigation in Pennsylvania, you need help. You need experienced guidance from skilled criminal defense attorneys to ensure your family stays together. The skilled Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm can help. They've been helping Pennsylvanians through the criminal justice system and family investigations for years, and they can help you. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686, or contact them online to schedule your consultation.