Drug Offenses: Different Crimes, Different Punishments

Like many other offenses, drug-related crimes are divided into several different levels of severity. The punishments can vary widely, but there are a few factors that usually result in more serious consequences. Crimes involving so-called “hard” drugs tend to be punished more severely than the same offenses involving “soft” drugs. In virtually all cases, distribution/sale of drugs is punished much more severely than simple possession.

For example, possession of a small quantity of cocaine can be a third or second degree felony. Possession of a comparably small amount of cannabis, on the other hand, typically only results in misdemeanor charges. In many cases, simple cannabis possession only leads to a citation. However, if the authorities believe there was intent to sell the cannabis, the offense commonly becomes a felony. Selling near a school or public place (such as a park) is automatically treated as a first-degree felony.

It can sometimes be difficult to demonstrate intent to sell, but individually-bagged quantities of a drug are a common giveaway. Possession of paraphernalia alone is a criminal offense, but any paraphernalia related to selling, such as scales, can be taken as evidence of intent to sell. In many cases, however, users who do not sell have the same equipment.

Contact Us

Any criminal charge should be taken seriously. Prosecutors often explore every avenue to increase your charges. Since many of the stipulations of drug laws depend on interpretation—nearly anything can be paraphernalia—it is vitally important to seek the help of an experienced Boca Raton drug crimes lawyer. To discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact the law offices of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.