Depending on the type of drug and the alleged intent of the defendant, the penalty for drug charges varies from state to state. There are dozens of drug charges to choose from, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, GBL, date rape drugs, and methamphetamine. Each charge carries its own punishment depending on the drug’s schedule and its intended use.
Possession
Possession of narcotics is a serious drug crime. The penalty is harsh and can result in a prison sentence. Even possession of less than a gram of a drug can lead to a possession of narcotics charge. This charge can also apply if you possess drug paraphernalia such as bags or packaging materials. In addition, it is possible to be charged with possession with intent to sell even if you have not sold the drugs.
In order to avoid a felony charge, you must have the right to consult a competent defense attorney. A good defense attorney will be able to defend you against felony charges and prevent you from paying a heavy price. A drug conviction can be permanent and can land you in prison for years.
Distribution
Distribution of narcotics is a serious crime that can carry a long prison sentence. Several factors will determine your punishment. First of all, the amount and packaging of narcotics you possess are important. The more potent your possessions, the more serious your charges may be. It is also important to note that possession with the intent to distribute will carry a more serious penalty than simple possession of narcotics. If you have been accused of distributing drugs, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
The distribution of narcotics charge can be applied to many different situations. Even if an individual has a reasonable reason for sharing prescription medication, they may not realize that they are committing a serious crime.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing of drugs is an extremely serious crime that can result in lengthy prison sentences. While it can be a misdemeanor offense in some circumstances, convictions are almost always felony-level. If convicted, you may be facing a minimum of a year in prison and up to 10 years in prison.
You can be charged with this crime if you manufacture controlled substances, or if you merely possess a small amount of the substance. In addition to the jail time, you could also face restitution for the damage you caused to property or a drug lab. Federal law divides drugs into five schedules, which include Schedule 1 drugs like heroin, Schedule 2 drugs like cocaine, and Schedule 5 drugs like prescription drugs.
Fraud
Fraud on drugs charges can lead to significant fines and prison time. If you are caught selling illegal substances to undercover police officers, it is essential to seek the advice of a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. There are several defenses available to you in such a case. One of the best options is to prove to the prosecution that you were not trying to defraud the customer.
One of the most common forms of prescription drug fraud is doctor-shopping. This involves a person visiting several different doctors in a short period of time to collect prescriptions. The person pretends to have an injury that is causing them great pain and then obtains multiple prescriptions for the same medication. However, the patient is not really in pain and is attempting to avoid paying for their prescriptions.
Conspiracy
Conspiracy charges against drugs can be tough to fight because they require a high level of proof. In many cases, the alleged agreement between the participants is not explicit, and the prosecution must rely on hearsay and circumstantial evidence to prove that everyone involved was planning to commit a crime. The prosecutor must prove that the people involved were intent on committing the crime and took “substantial steps” to do so.
Drug conspiracy cases are particularly complex, and they can involve long-term investigations and wire-tapping warrants. The legal proceedings also typically involve complex motions and unusual evidentiary issues. Moreover, these types of cases do not require any actual handling of the drugs or the money.
PWITS
A person can be charged with a PWITS charge when he or she has been found in possession of a controlled substance. These substances can include heroin, meth, cocaine, and hallucinogenics. Unlike marijuana, a small quantity of PWITS will not result in a life sentence. However, if you have more than a gram, you may be charged with a felony.
The first step to defending yourself from PWITS and Narcotics charges is to know your rights. The penalties that come with these charges are extensive. In the case of a PWITS, you have the right to hire an experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorney. You can learn more about your legal rights by contacting an attorney who is familiar with PWITS and Narcotics law.
