Alexandria Drug Lawyer

State law prohibits a wide range of activities involving drugs and other controlled substances. Depending on the specific offense, you could face misdemeanor or felony charges with lifelong consequences.

As a result, if you are facing allegations of a narcotics offense, retain an Alexandria drug lawyer immediately. A seasoned criminal defense attorney could help you prepare a legal defense and work to minimize any potential consequences.

Drug and Controlled Substances Offenses

State law outlines all prohibited acts involving controlled substances. Some examples of behaviors that may constitute a drug charge include:

  • Unlawful possession of a controlled substance or marijuana
  • Transporting five pounds or more of marijuana into the state
  • Selling, distributing or manufacturing illegal narcotics
  • Possession of methamphetamine for selling or distribution

It is important to note that the penalties associated with these allegations may vary based on its classification and if other criminal acts were committed at the time of the arrest. Additionally, the court may impose stricter penalties could if a defendant has prior drug convictions. An Alexandria drug attorney could answer questions about specific narcotics offenses and their associated penalties.

Potential Penalties of a Drug Conviction

Drug Control Act establishes different types of Schedules to categorize controlled substances and their accompanying charges. Courts may charge illegal behavior involving drugs listed in Schedules III, IV, V, or VI  as misdemeanors. For example, possession of codeine, a Schedule III drug, without a valid prescription could be charged as a  Class 1 misdemeanor and may result in up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Offenses involving narcotics on Schedules I or II, such as LSD, heroin, and cocaine, are charged as felonies these substances tend to have a high potential for abuse. For instance, selling, manufacturing, or distributing methamphetamine is a felony punishable with a prison sentence of five years to life, depending on the quantity of the substance involved in the offense.

Other felony offenses may include the transporting of large quantities of drugs into the state. The penalty for transporting more than five pounds of marijuana or more than one ounce of cocaine is a prison sentence ranging from five to 40 years and a fine up to $1,000,000. An Alexandria lawyer with experience in defending drug cases could help a defendant prepare a case depending on the allegations against them and the substance involved.

Drug Possession First-Offense Consequences

Code of Virginia §18.2-251 specifies that a person charged with possession of marijuana, hallucinogenics, or other controlled substances may be placed on probation if they have no prior narcotics convictions. The conditions of probation may include substance abuse screening, periodic drug testing, and mandatory participation in a rehabilitation program for their addiction. Additionally, an individual may be required to cover the cost of any fees associated with drug testing and program participation.

Talk to an Alexandria Drug Attorney Today

If you are facing charges involving narcotics, an Alexandria drug lawyer could provide critical legal representation. An accomplished attorney could explain the legal process to you in addition to protecting your rights. To learn how legal counsel could help you, call today.