Of the many drug related crimes one can be charged within the state of Arizona, drug possessiontends to carry the least severe punishment. While still considered a felony, the penalties are typically less than those involving sale, manufacturing or trafficking. It is still a very serious crime and is frequently punished with prison time.
Possessions of drugs or controlled substance charges are not limited to illegal drugs such as cocaine and marijuana. You can also be charged if you are found carrying prescription medication that is not authorized to you. Under Arizona law, a controlled substance is defined as one of the following:
- Dangerous Drugs
- Narcotics
- Marijuana
Each of these types of controlled substances carry with them specific designations and different penalties depending on the drug in question.
Dangerous Drugs can include the following: methamphetamines, LSD, steroids, mushrooms, mescaline, GHB, ecstasy and clonazepam to name a few. If you are caught possessing any of these dangerous drugs, you will face Class 4 Felony charges and face a mandatory 1 year prison sentence.
Narcotics include: cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, morphine, opium and more. If you are found with any of these drugs, you’ll be charged with a Class 5 Felony, which could lead to a possible prison sentence of up to 18 months.
Marijuana laws and crimes are more complex and complicated. There are different possession charges you can face based on the amount that is found in your possession at the time of the arrest. The penalties if you are found guilty of these charges carry prison sentences and fines. Even if you are carrying less than 2 pounds of marijuana, you can be charged with a Class 6 Felony and face up to a year in jail.
The best thing you can do when you’re facing possession of a controlled substance charges is to contact an attorney immediately. Working with a Drug Defense Lawyer like Charlie Naegle who has years of experience handing drug charges can greatly reduce your penalty.
Don’t try to fight your battles alone. Mr. Naegle is ready and committed to helping your fight your charges and find a resolution that is in your best interest. Call Naegle & Crider Criminal Defense Attorneys right away!