Top Drug Possession Attorney in Bozeman, MT
If you’ve been charged with drug possession in Bozeman, Montana, you’re facing a legal situation that demands immediate and skilled representation. Despite shifting national attitudes toward drugs—particularly marijuana—Montana law remains firm, and Gallatin County prosecutors continue to pursue drug offenses aggressively. Even a seemingly minor charge can carry consequences that follow you for years, impacting your freedom, your record, and your future.
At Holloway & Hulling PLLC, we are committed to defending individuals accused of drug crimes with focused, personalized strategies. Our attorneys understand the nuances of local enforcement, the evolving drug statutes in Montana, and the pressure that comes with being targeted by the criminal justice system. We provide aggressive representation aimed at reducing or eliminating charges, suppressing unlawful evidence, and protecting your rights throughout the legal process.
Montana’s Drug Possession Laws: A Closer Look
Montana classifies controlled substances into schedules, with Schedule I drugs (such as heroin and LSD) considered the most serious. However, possession of any illicit drug—regardless of classification—can lead to harsh penalties, especially if the substance is considered a “dangerous drug.”
Possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, illegal opioids, or unauthorized prescription drugs is typically charged as a felony. Even a small quantity may be enough to bring significant legal jeopardy, particularly if law enforcement believes there was intent to distribute.
For first-time offenders, the law does allow some flexibility, but prosecutors often push for strict sentencing in Bozeman, citing concerns about drug-related crime and addiction in the region. Without an experienced drug possession attorney advocating for you, you may face jail time, hefty fines, supervised probation, mandatory treatment programs, and a permanent criminal record that could limit your housing, employment, and education opportunities.
Marijuana Charges: Still a Legal Threat
While Montana has legalized recreational marijuana for adults over 21, that doesn’t mean you’re free from prosecution. The legal landscape is more nuanced than it may appear. Individuals can still be charged for possessing more than the legally permitted amount, distributing without a license, using marijuana in public, or driving under the influence.
Young adults under 21—such as college students at Montana State University—can also face misdemeanor or felony charges for possession, even in small amounts. And because much of Gallatin County includes federal land, individuals caught with marijuana in a national park or forest may be prosecuted under federal drug laws, where the penalties are far more severe.
Our firm stays current with evolving state and federal marijuana regulations to ensure that clients receive cutting-edge defense strategies tailored to these complexities.
Prescription Drug Charges
Prescription Drug Charges
One of the fastest-growing categories of drug possession cases in Bozeman involves prescription medications. Individuals can face criminal charges for possessing drugs like Xanax, OxyContin, Adderall, or Vicodin without a valid prescription. Even if the medication was prescribed to someone close to you or obtained for legitimate medical reasons, unauthorized possession can lead to a felony.
Police and prosecutors often treat prescription drug cases with the same intensity as street drug offenses, especially when they suspect fraud or illegal distribution. Our firm takes a proactive approach, investigating the circumstances of your arrest, challenging improper searches, and negotiating with prosecutors to seek alternatives to incarceration when appropriate.
How We Defend Drug Possession Charges in Bozeman, MT
At Holloway & Hulling, we take a customized approach to every case. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy when your freedom is at stake. We begin by thoroughly reviewing your arrest—looking at whether your rights were violated during a stop, search, or seizure. Constitutional violations such as unlawful searches or lack of probable cause are often central to getting charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
We also assess the strength of the prosecution’s evidence. In many cases, the quantity of the substance, its identification, or how it was discovered can be successfully challenged. If the drugs were found in a shared space, for instance, we can often argue lack of knowledge or constructive possession. In other scenarios, we may pursue a motion to suppress, excluding key evidence from trial and weakening the state’s position.
Our team also leverages relationships with local prosecutors to negotiate favorable resolutions. When appropriate, we may advocate for deferred prosecution, drug court programs, or conditional releases that allow clients to avoid jail and work toward dismissal through treatment or compliance.
Drug Possession Charges and Montana State Students
Bozeman is home to thousands of students attending Montana State University. Unfortunately, young people are disproportionately affected by drug charges, which can lead to long-term academic and financial consequences. A conviction may result in the loss of student housing, scholarships, or future educational opportunities. Even a misdemeanor can harm graduate school admissions and background checks.
Our firm frequently represents students and young adults facing possession charges. We work to keep their records clean and push for outcomes that protect their future. Whether it’s arguing for dismissal, seeking entry into a diversion program, or requesting expungement later down the line, we focus on minimizing the long-term impact of a mistake.
Diversion and Treatment Options in Gallatin County
Gallatin County offers some alternative sentencing options for non-violent drug offenses, particularly for first-time offenders or individuals with substance use disorders. When possible, we advocate for entry into programs such as:
- Chemical Dependency Evaluations
- Outpatient or inpatient treatment programs
- Deferred prosecution agreements
- Probation with drug testing and treatment conditions
- Dismissal upon completion of requirements
Participation in these programs can result in reduced or dismissed charges and offer a second chance. However, eligibility and access to these options are not automatic—you need a knowledgeable attorney to advocate for them on your behalf.
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I recently had the pleasure of being represented by Nathan Hulling of Holloway & Hulling. I also had a couple of brief interactions with Nate Hulling when Nathan wasn’t available and found him to be extremely helpful and professional. Nathan Hulling is a skilled and very knowledgeable attorney. He’s communicative and sympathetic to his clients and their cases. He came to Court in Ravalli County with a lot of documentation to support my case. I think he truly cares about his clients and works tirelessly to advocate for them. I would absolutely recommend this law firm.
As a fellow attorney, if anyone asks me who a good criminal defense attorney is, I tell them Nathan Hulling. I trust that he will take good care of anyone I send over. And in each case he has navigated them through the justice system and achieved favorable results. Nathan is a reliable, skilled, and experienced attorney. And most importantly, a good person. If you find yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney, this is the place to go.
Great team of lawyers helped me get everything taken care of in a situation that felt hopeless at the time! They were able to guide me through each step and make me feel good about it every step of the way! I couldn’t possibly say better things about Holloway or Hulling and would recommend them to anyone in need! Thanks again for everything guys!
Don’t Face Drug Possession Charges Alone
Drug charges in Bozeman can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating the justice system for the first time. You may feel pressure to accept a plea deal, or believe there’s no way to fight the evidence against you. That’s where we come in.
At Holloway & Hulling, we treat every case with the seriousness it deserves. We understand that the stakes are high—not just legally, but personally. Our team is here to ensure that your rights are protected, your voice is heard, and your future is not defined by a single mistake.
Call Holloway and Hulling Bozeman Today
If you or someone you care about has been charged with drug possession in Bozeman, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Time is critical. The decisions you make in the early days of your case can shape the entire outcome.
Call Holloway & Hulling Bozeman PLLC for a confidential, free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, explore your options, and start building a strategy to fight back. Your future matters—let us help you protect it.
