Four Most Common Types of Drug Crime Charges

The
United States federal and state rulings have a law coverage over various drug
crime charges. Certain state laws might be more specific but do not run in
conflict with federal laws. Federal drug charges will result in longer and
stricter sentences. Meanwhile, state drug charges can be set on probation or
shorter sentences. Nonetheless, no matter what type of drug charges you have,
any drug conviction will have consequences.
Drug crimes have
garnered attention over the past decade. Every US state prohibits
manufacturing, selling, and possessing controlled substances. Some of these
controlled substances include methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, and
marijuana.
Here are some of the most common types of drug crime
charges:
Possession of Controlled Substance
Every state has a
different set of laws when it comes to drug possession. The charge varies
depending on the type and amount of drug involved. Both federal and state laws
prohibit possession of any illicit substances. The charge can either be
possession with the intent to distribute or simple possession. If the person
only has a small amount, the charge can be simple possession. A large quantity
of illegal substances can have harsher
sentences due to the intent to distribute. Similar paraphernalia laws can be
covered with a drug possession charge.
Paraphernalia Charges
Drug paraphernalia
refers to any equipment or tool which is used to conceal, inhale, inject, or
prepare illicit drugs. It is against the law to import, export, or sell drug
paraphernalia. Some drug paraphernalia include pipes, rolling papers, syringes,
and bongs which are used to inhale, inject, and prepare the substance.
The issue with drug
paraphernalia is the fact that some types can look as if they are made for
legal purposes. An example is a syringe. A syringe can be used to inject drugs
but can be masked as a medical-grade syringe. Another example would be bongs
that have labels that can only be used for tobacco. Even with that label, you
can have charges related to drug paraphernalia which depends on how the item
looks or where you purchase the item.
Dealer Charges
Dealing in illegal
drug trade means selling illicit substances on a small scale. Trafficking and
dealing charges can vary depending on the state you are in. Drug dealing
involves selling small amounts with leaner penalties. Selling large quantities
serves harsher sentences.
A charge with
dealing 50 grams of marijuana have a sentence up to five years and an
additional fine of $250,000. Selling 1,000 kilograms would have a sentence
starting from 10 years to life.
Manufacturing and Delivering Drugs Charges
Another common type
of drug crime charges would be the manufacturing and delivery of illicit drugs.
Prosecutors need to prove the intent of the defendant to either manufacture or
deliver illegal drugs to have a stronger case to convict the drug manufacturer.
Convictions will face prison time and fines. Growing or manufacturing products
with marijuana have a different case due to medical legality.
Drug Trafficking Charges
Laws covering
trafficking and distribution of drugs state that it is illegal to transport,
sell or import any illegal substances. This charge is considered a felony.
Trafficking and distributing drugs is a serious crime compared to a drug
possession charge. Possessing huge quantities of drugs can lead the police to
think that you have an intent to distribute the narcotics and give you a
distribution charge. Conviction of drug trafficking can have a sentence from
three years to life.
Seek Professional Legal Help From A Reputable and
Experienced Law Firm
Getting drug crime
charges is nerve-wracking. It is advised to have a drug charges’ defense
attorney. The lawyer will determine what defenses can be used in your case.
Some defense attorneys would challenge the testimony, evidence or stated facts.
Procedural errors can also be used by the defense attorney.
Get professional
legal help and ensure that your lawyer is reliable and experienced. An example
would be the Stockmann Law firm that specializes in drug defense cases. It is
in the best interests of the defendant to seek professional help. Drug crime
sentences can be severe with hefty fines and prison time which is why there
should be no delay in getting appropriate legal help.
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