what is the cost of an attorney on a 2nd offense possession of a controlled substance

by Claude O'Hara 4 min read

What is the penalty for possession of a controlled substance?

A misdemeanor offense for any amount in possession; Max Jail: 180 days; Max Fine: $1,000.00; 6-month to 5-year license suspension 2nd Offense – Class I Felony. Any subsequent offense of marijuana possession is a Class I Felony, regardless of the amount in possession; Max Prison: 3.5 years; Max Fine: $10,000.00; 6-month to 5-year license suspension

Can a first-time possession of a controlled substance lead to alternative sentencing?

Jun 24, 2020 · Classification for Possession. Penalty for Possession. <1G. State Jail Felony. 6 months to 2 years in a state jail & possible fine not to exceed $10,000. 1-4G. 3rd Degree Felony. 2 to 10 years in. prison & possible fine not to exceed $10,000. 4-200G.

How are drug possession charges determined in SC?

Aug 04, 2020 · Heroin possession in SC is covered by SC Code Section 44-53-370(d)(1), and it carries a potential penalty of up to two years in prison for a first offense and as much as five years in prison for a second or subsequent offense: 1) a controlled substance classified in Schedule I (b) and (c) which is a narcotic drug or lysergic acid diethylamide ...

What happens if you get a misdemeanor for controlled substance?

May 05, 2021 · Possession of a Controlled Substance Sentencing & Penalties. A Class 4 felony has a possible sentence of 1-3 years in the Department of Corrections (prison). The fine can be up to $25,000. Most Class 4 felony drug charges permit the court to sentence the defendant to probation and substance abuse treatment, instead of a prison sentence.

What is the maximum sentence for possession of a controlled substance in Texas?

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Texas?PossessionPenaltyMaximum FineLess than 28 gramsClass A misdemeanor$4,00028 to 200 grams3rd degree felony$10,000200 to 400 grams2nd degree felony$10,000More than 400 grams1st degree felony$50,000Dec 14, 2020

What is the penalty for possession of a controlled substance in KY?

Someone who knowingly possesses specified amounts of Schedule I or II substances that are not narcotic drugs, or some substances in Schedule III, may be charged with a class A misdemeanor. If convicted, penalties include fine of $500, up to one year in jail, or both. (Ky.

What is the penalty for possession of a controlled substance in Alabama?

Examples of this include possession of a controlled substance such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications. In these cases, a person faces a minimum sentence of one year and a day, up to 10 years in state penitentiary, and up to a $15,000 fine.

What is the sentence for drug possession in Missouri?

Possession of a controlled substance is a Class D felony in Missouri. If convicted, the offender will serve up to seven years in jail and can be charged a fine of up to $10,000.

Is possession of a controlled substance a felony in KY?

(2) Possession of a controlled substance in the first degree is a Class D felony subject to the following provisions: (a) The maximum term of incarceration shall be no greater than three (3) years, notwithstanding KRS Chapter 532; (b) For a person's first or second offense under this section, he or she may be subject ...

Do first-time drug offenders go to jail in Kentucky?

When facing drug possession charges Kentucky treats drug possession of a Schedule I substance – such meth, cocaine, heroin or LSD – as a serious crime. Law enforcement will charge first-time offenders with a Class D felony, which can result in spending up to three years in prison.Jan 18, 2021

Is unlawful possession of a controlled substance a felony in Alabama?

(b) Unlawful possession of a controlled substance is a Class D felony.

How many grams is a felony in Alabama?

If someone was in possession of more than 2.2 pounds or one kilo, it becomes the felony charge of trafficking under Alabama Code with mandatory sentences of prison.

How much coke is a felony in Alabama?

between 28 and 500 gramsCocaine – Trafficking between 28 and 500 grams of cocaine is a class A felony. The penalties are also at least 3 years in prison and up to $50,000 in fines.Apr 10, 2018

How do I get a drug paraphernalia charge dropped in Missouri?

How to Get Drug Paraphernalia Charges DroppedStatements about the object concerning its use.Prior controlled substance convictions of the owner.The proximity of the item to controlled substances.Controlled substance residue on the object.Expert testimony concerning the items' use.

Does Missouri have a 3 strike law?

Under the three strikes law, offenders who are convicted of the most serious crimes are given a strike. These strikes can affect the outcome of future criminal convictions. In Missouri, individuals with two prior criminal convictions of three strikes crimes are known as prior and persistent offenders.

What is considered a controlled substance in Missouri?

What is a “Controlled Substance”? A controlled substance is any substance or drug that is designated as a Schedule I through Schedule V on Missouri's list of scheduled substances. These schedules are based, in part, in their alleged danger and risk for abuse.

How many penalty groups are there for possession of a controlled substance in Texas?

Texas law classifies controlled substances in one of four penalty groups. The penalty groups are numbered from 1 to 4.

What drugs are in the Penalty Group 1?

Essentially, this group includes substances deemed to be the most dangerous and addictive. Some notable examples of drugs included in Penalty Group 1 are: Opioids (which includes painkillers like codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone); Heroin;

Is possession of a controlled substance a criminal offense in Texas?

Drug possession is a serious offense in Texas so penalties for possession of a controlled substance can be severe. Under state law ( Texas Controlled Substances Act, Health & Safety Code, and Texas Penal Code), a conviction, and sometimes even just an arrest, for possession of a controlled substance is subject to strict criminal penalties.

What is the charge for possession of drugs in SC?

Drug possession charges in SC are based on the weight of the drugs allegedly found . There is a “cut-off” point, or threshold amount, for each type of drug, and if the drugs found weigh less than that amount, the charge is presumptively simple possession, as opposed to possession with intent to distribute or drug trafficking.

How long is a drug charge for possession without a prescription?

Possession of most non-narcotic prescription drugs (without a prescription) falls under the same code section as MDMA (above) and carries a potential sentence of up to six months in jail on a first offense.

How long is fentanyl in jail?

Fentanyl possession is currently treated the same as heroin under SC law (see above), and carries a potential sentence of up to two years in prison for a first offense or up to five years in prison for a third or subsequent offense .

How long can you go to jail for possession of Schedule I-V?

Schedule I and Schedule II narcotic drugs, like heroin or fentanyl, are covered above and carry a potential sentence of up to two years in prison for a first offense and up to five years for a third or subsequent offense.

How long is heroin possession in SC?

Heroin possession in SC is covered by SC Code Section 44-53-370 (d) (1), and it carries a potential penalty of up to two years in prison for a first offense and as much as five years in prison for a second or subsequent offense:

How long is a crack cocaine charge in SC?

Found in SC Code Section 44-53-375, possession of less than one gram of crack cocaine or cocaine base in SC carries a potential sentence of up to three years in prison for a first offense and as much as ten years in prison for a third offense.

What is cocaine base in SC?

Simple possession of cocaine or possession of cocaine base (crack cocaine) in SC is defined as having less than one gram of the drug.

What is the primary issue in the defense of possession of a controlled substance?

The primary issue in the defense of possession of a controlled substance is actual and knowing possession. If the defendant was seated in a vehicle as a passenger, and the drugs were found on the floor, then the question is whether the defendant was in possession or someone else.

What is possession in a case?

Possession is defined as physical dominion and control over something. That is, you are in possession of something if it is in your hand or locked in a safe for which you have the key. Controlled substance cases are many times entirely about circumstantial evidence.

What is Schedule I controlled substance?

A Schedule I controlled substance is defined as a substance that: 1) has high potential for abuse; and 2) has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States or lacks accepted safety for use in treatment under medical supervision. See 720 ILCS 570/203.

How long is a Class 4 felony?

A Class 4 felony has a possible sentence of 1-3 years in the Department of Corrections (prison). The fine can be up to $25,000. Most Class 4 felony drug charges permit the court to sentence the defendant to probation and substance abuse treatment, instead of a prison sentence.

Is possession of opiates a felony?

Finally, possession of opiates is a felony criminal offense. OxyContin is the common name of the opiate oxycodone. Possession of oxycodone without a prescription is a felony offense. Possession of cocaine or heroin is a Class 4 felony as long as the weight of the substance is less than 15 grams.

Where is constructive possession found?

Constructive possession generally is found where a person knows of the presence of a controlled substance and has intent and capability to maintain control and possession of it or has exclusive control of the area where the controlled substance was located.

Is opiates a felony?

The following prescribed drugs can result in a criminal charge: Ritalin, Cylert, and Adderall. Finally, possession of opiates is a felony criminal offense.

What is the penalty for a second conviction?

A second conviction is an aggravated misdemeanor. Penalties include a fine of between $625 and $6,250 and one year in jail; or no fine and up to two years in prison. Third and subsequent convictions. A third or subsequent conviction is a class D felony.

How much is the fine for possession of marijuana in Iowa?

Penalties include a fine of between $750 and $7,500, up to five years in prison, or both. As noted above, marijuana possession is treated differently than possession of other controlled substances. For more information about marijuana laws in Iowa, see Iowa Marijuana Laws.

What are the penalties for CDS possession in Iowa?

(Iowa Code Ann. Section 124.401 (5).) First conviction. A first conviction is a serious misdemeanor. Penalties include a fine of between $315 and $1,875, up to one year in jail, or both.

What is Schedule III drug?

Schedule III drugs (such as LSD and anabolic steroids). These drugs have a potential for abuse that is less than drugs in Schedules I and II (abuse leading to moderate or low physical dependence, or high psychological dependence), and accepted medical uses. (Iowa Code Ann. Section 124.207.)

How long is marijuana possession in Michigan?

In Michigan, possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail. If the second or subsequent enhancement is applied to the possession of marijuana charge, the maximum possible penalty becomes TWO years.

What are the offenses that are not limited to Schedule 1?

These offenses include, but are not limited to, the possession, manufacture, distribution or use of Schedule 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 drugs contrary to law, possession of drug paraphernalia, prescription fraud, or maintaining a drug house or drug vehicle.

How long can a drug trial last?

MCL 333.7413 DOUBLES the minimum guideline range, meaning that the trial court can actually select a minimum term somewhere between 10 months and 46 months if the offender is a second or subsequent drug offender.

How long is the prison sentence in Michigan?

Michigan has an indeterminate sentencing scheme, meaning that offenders are usually sentenced to a prison term that has a minimum and maximum term of years. For example, someone who is convicted of possession of cocaine (a 4-year/$25,000.00 penalty) might receive a sentence of two to four years in prison from the judge.

Can a drug conviction trigger a maximum sentence?

A single prior drug conviction can both trigger doubling the maximum sentence and increasing the prior record variable score into a higher minimum sentence guideline range, meaning that the trial court should score ALL prior record variables to determine sentence guidelines whether drug-related or not.

What are the defenses to possession of a controlled substance?

As with any criminal charge, defenses may be available for possession of a controlled substance. These may vary by state; a few examples include: 1 Duress: It may be a defense if a person is forced under threat of harm to possess the drugs (for instance, if they are held at gunpoint and told to hold drugs for someone); 2 Intoxication: Under some circumstances, intoxication can be a defense, especially if it affects a person’s ability to form the proper intention needed for a criminal charge; or 3 Possession of proper prescription: For some substances, it can be argued that the person had a valid prescription or license to possess the controlled substance.

How much is a misdemeanor in jail?

For instance, a misdemeanor conviction might result in a fine of $500 and 6 months in jail, depending on the substance and amount possessed. Felony possession charges will result in higher criminal fines, ...

What is possession in a car?

The term “possession” can include a broad range of conduct, including: Holding or carrying the controlled substance on one’s person; Having the substance within reach or control of the person (such as when it is being transported in a car within easy access);

What is a controlled substance?

Under criminal laws, a “controlled substance” is generally defined as any drug or material that is subject to state and federal laws. These are usually substances that pose some sort of danger or risk of harm, addiction, or abuse. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) provides a broad list of substances that are regulated, ...

Is possession of a controlled substance a crime?

The unauthorized possession of a controlled substance is typically classified as a criminal offense. Such violations can result in significant criminal fines, jail or prison time, and other criminal consequences. The term “possession” can include a broad range of conduct, including:

Is heroin a felony?

For instance, possession of heroin, a Schedule 1 substance, can often lead to felony charges. In comparison, possession of marijuana may only lead to a misdemeanor or even a minor traffic citation in some areas. Secondly, the amount of the substance possessed can affect the criminal charges. Generally speaking, possession ...

Can a drug crime lawyer represent you?

Your attorney can explain what your legal options are and can represent you during the criminal trial process.

How much is a second offense for possession of marijuana?

A second offense is a serious misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in the county jail and a fine between $315.00 and $1,875.00.

What is the penalty for possession of marijuana in Iowa?

A third offense is a Class D Felony punishable by up to five years imprisonment and a fine between $750.00 and $7,500.00. The legislature has carved out an exception for possession of marijuana in Iowa. A conviction for possession of marijuana first offense is a hybrid serious misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in the county jail or a fine ...

What is the fine for a third offense in Iowa?

A third offense is a is an aggravated misdemeanor and punishable by up to two years imprisonment and a fine between $625.00 and $6,250.00. When you are facing criminal charges in Iowa, you need a criminal attorney who is committed to providing you with the very best representation possible.

How do you prove possession?

The state can prove possession by proving that you actually possessed it ( such as having it on your person) or that you constructively possessed it (such as having it in your glove box). In both cases the state must prove that you had actual control or the authority have to control over the substance, that you knew that it was there ...

Is possession of a controlled substance a misdemeanor?

However, if you and one or more individuals share possession then possession is joint. For all controlled substances with the exception of marijuana, a conviction for possession of a controlled substance first offense is a serious misdemeanor ...

How long can you go to jail for drug possession?

A first or second offense is a Category E Felony, which means you could face 1-4 years in prison.

What happens if you are found with a controlled substance?

Being found with a controlled substance can have serious penalties resulting in substantial fines and imprisonment.

What is the Nevada Code for possession of controlled substances?

The Nevada Code that outlines the legal nature of controlled substance possession and the punishment for it is called NRS 453.336, which outlines what it means to have drugs in your possession that are not prescribed to you, and which you are not trying to sell. If you possess a drug with the intent to sell, that is a different charge.

What is controlled substance?

A “controlled substance” is a fancy word for drugs that are only legal to have in your possession if a medical professional has written you a prescription for them (doctor, physician assistant, optometrist, dentist, etc.). The exact wording of the law states that if you “knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance, ...

How long can you go to jail for possession of marijuana?

This is a category b felony, and you can face 1-6 years in prison. Please note that marijuana is listed as a schedule 1 drug, however, the ordinary penalties for possession of a schedule 1 drug do not apply to possession of marijuana. The penalties for possession of marijuana are less harsh but are still very serious depending upon ...

What is a Schedule V drug?

There is such thing as a Schedule V drug, and that includes drugs such as Robitussin, Opium, and Demerol. The first offense is a Category E Felony where 1-4 years in prison can be served, but again a good criminal defense lawyer will likely be able to get the charge reduced or dismissed with probation.

What are the different types of controlled substances?

Controlled substances are divided up into Schedule I, II, III, and IV. Schedule I substances are the worst to have in your possession without a prescription, schedule IV are the least serious to be found possessing. Here are some examples of substances that fit into these categories:

What are the penalties for possession of controlled substances?

Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Factors 1 State jail felony: Less than one gram#N#· Fine: Up to $10,000#N#· Prison sentence: Between 180 days and two years in prison 2 Felony of the 3rd Degree: Between one and four grams#N#· Fine: Up to $10,000#N#· Prison sentence: Between two and ten years 3 Felony of the 2nd Degree: Between four and 200 grams#N#· Fine: Up to $10,000#N#· Prison sentence: Between two and twenty years 4 Felony of the 1st Degree: Between 200 and 400 grams#N#· Fine: Up to $100,000#N#· Prison sentence: Between five and 99 years 5 Enhanced Felony of the 1st Degree: 400 grams or more#N#· Fine: Up to $100,000#N#· Prison sentence: Between ten and 99 years in prison

How many penalty groups are there for controlled substances in Texas?

Texas law separates controlled substances into four penalty groups and two sub-penalty groups. The Texas Health and Safety Code, Sections 481.102 through 481.105 list the penalty groups and their associated controlled substances.

What is the penalty group 1?

Penalty Group 1 is comprised of the drugs most likely to cause abuse and addiction that have no recognized medical use. Penalty Groups 1A, 2, 2A, 3, and 4 contain controlled substances and compounds that decrease in their dangerousness and probability of abuse.

What drugs are controlled in Texas?

Not only does Texas law regulate the well-known drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs but it also regulates the possession of the compounds used to manufacture them.

Is possession of a controlled substance a misdemeanor?

Depending on the circumstances involved, a charge for possession of a controlled substance could be as minor as a misdemeanor or as serious as a felony. The main determining factors are the type of drug, the corresponding penalty group, and the amount in possession at the time of arrest.