Drug Charges & Trafficking Defense
Protecting Your Rights Against Serious Drug Accusations
From possession to large-scale trafficking, we fight to challenge illegal searches, unreliable evidence, and overreaching prosecution.
Ohio’s drug laws are among the toughest in the nation. With mandatory minimum sentences, “Major Drug Offender” specifications, and life-changing collateral consequences, a single charge can jeopardize your freedom, career, and future. Since 1996, Attorney Tom Kollin has defended clients across Greene County and Dayton—from simple possession to complex federal trafficking cases—aggressively fighting to protect their rights and minimize the damage of prosecution.
Understanding Ohio’s Drug Laws
Ohio classifies controlled substances into five schedules, with penalties based on the type and quantity of the drug involved. A few grams can mean the difference between probation and mandatory prison time. Prosecutors frequently use surveillance, confidential informants, and extended investigations to build cases designed for maximum penalties often months before an arrest is ever made.
Drug investigations can expand quickly, adding new charges and defendants as evidence develops. Early intervention is critical. The Kollin Firm steps in immediately to protect your constitutional rights, challenge unlawful searches or seizures, and begin shaping a defense before charges escalate.
Collateral Consequences Beyond Jail Time
A drug conviction can ripple through every part of your life. Beyond potential incarceration, Ohio law allows for driver’s license suspensions, professional license revocations, loss of student aid, housing restrictions, and immigration consequences. Our representation goes beyond the courtroom—we work to protect your livelihood, your record, and your ability to rebuild your life after the case is resolved.
Why Clients Trust The Kollin Firm for Drug Defense
With nearly three decades of experience defending both state and federal drug cases, Attorney Kollin understands the strategies prosecutors use—and how to dismantle them. His background includes defending clients against Major Drug Offender (MDO) specifications, trafficking and possession with intent charges, and conspiracy allegations that hold defendants responsible for the actions of others.
Our in-house investigator, a former sheriff of Greene County, assists in uncovering improper police procedures and constitutional violations. Attorney Kollin also has a deep understanding of Ohio’s sentencing laws, including the Reagan Tokes Law, which allows indefinite sentencing for higher-degree felonies. This knowledge allows him to negotiate strategically, avoid triggering mandatory sentences, and pursue alternative outcomes when possible.
Key Defense Strategies
1. Challenging Searches and Seizures
Suppressing evidence obtained through unconstitutional traffic stops, home searches, or warrantless seizures.
2. Disputing Drug Quantity or Classification
Questioning lab results, drug purity, or total weight to reduce charges or avoid MDO classification.
3. Avoiding Major Drug Offender Specifications
Contesting weight calculations or aggregation that would trigger mandatory 11-year prison sentences.
4. Protecting Against Conspiracy and Aiding Charges
Demonstrating lack of direct involvement or intent in broader drug operations.
5. Pursuing Alternatives to Incarceration
Negotiating for treatment programs or community control options—particularly for first-time offenders or those seeking rehabilitation.
Common Aggravating Factors
Ohio law imposes harsher penalties when certain aggravating circumstances are present, including:
- Offenses occurring within 1,000 feet of a school zone or involving minors
- Firearm possession during a drug offense
- Prior drug convictions or probation violations
- Large quantities exceeding Ohio’s “bulk amount” thresholds
- Federal jurisdiction due to interstate activity or large-scale operations
Identifying and mitigating these aggravating factors early is essential to minimizing potential prison exposure.
Drug cases are rarely just about the substances themselves—they’re about protecting constitutional rights, challenging government overreach, and ensuring that punishment fits the actual crime—not the prosecutor’s narrative.
Attorney Tom Kollin
Drug cases are built on extensive investigation. Protect yourself by remembering:
- Do not speak with police without an attorney present.
- Do not consent to searches of your home, vehicle, or phone.
- Preserve all text messages, receipts, or digital communications.
- Contact an attorney immediately—even if you haven’t been arrested but suspect you’re under investigation.
Practical Advice for Anyone Facing Drug Charges
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between possession and trafficking?
You don’t need to sell drugs to be charged with trafficking—Ohio law defines trafficking as possessing substances with the intent to distribute. Prosecutors often infer “intent” from packaging, scales, or large cash amounts.
What is a Major Drug Offender (MDO) specification?
MDO specifications apply when drug quantities exceed strict thresholds (e.g., 100 grams of cocaine or heroin, or 1,000 doses of fentanyl). These carry mandatory 11-year prison sentences. Attorney Kollin frequently challenges weight calculations and lab testing to avoid these enhancements.
Can my charges be reduced?
Yes. By challenging the search, substance classification, or quantity, many cases can be reduced from felonies to misdemeanors—eliminating prison time and protecting your record.
How do Ohio’s mandatory minimums work?
First- and second-degree felonies carry minimum prison terms of three to eleven years, and indefinite sentencing laws can extend those terms. Early negotiation and aggressive pretrial motions can prevent these minimums from applying.
How can drug charges affect my professional license?
Convictions—even misdemeanors—can lead to automatic disciplinary actions for professionals in healthcare, education, and other licensed industries. We coordinate with licensing boards to mitigate or prevent career disruption.
What happens if my case goes federal?
Federal drug cases typically involve larger quantities or interstate activity and carry much harsher sentences. The Kollin Firm has experience in both state and federal courts and can effectively manage the jurisdictional and procedural differences.
- Over 25 years of experience defending state and federal drug cases
- Extensive knowledge of Ohio’s drug classification system and sentencing laws
- Proven success in avoiding Major Drug Offender specifications
- Skilled in identifying constitutional search and seizure violations
- Former law enforcement investigator providing insight into drug investigation tactics
- Established relationships with local prosecutors and court officials
Attorney Credentials and Recognition
Contact Attorney Tom Kollin Today
When drug charges threaten your freedom and your future, swift action is essential. Attorney Tom Kollin brings decades of courtroom experience and a record of successful outcomes in complex drug prosecutions.
We proudly serve Beavercreek, Xenia, Fairborn, Yellow Springs, Cedarville, Bellbrook, Jamestown, and all surrounding Greene County communities.
