Types of Drug Charges Pennsylvania Police Will Target
Drug laws continue to change in Pennsylvania and Philadelphia, as some drugs are decriminalized and other offenses are no longer carrying steep or severe penalties. Offenses and charges will vary depending on the type of drugs found at the time of an arrest. If you’ve been arrested for possession or intent to sell, you need a Philadelphia drug lawyer that fights on your behalf.
When it comes to what the police and the state of Pennsylvania target for drug offenses, here are the types of arrests and drugs that are on the list. While there are many types of drugs, the most common arrests that involve drugs pertain to cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. However, due to the severity of each drug, they are targeted differently and the laws surrounding each drug comes with different punishments if convicted.
Cocaine Laws & Targeting
Depending on the amount of cocaine is in your possession at the time of an arrest, the charges are weighted differently. If you’re arrested with a couple of grams, the charges will be much less than if you’re arrested with a couple of ounces. Cocaine for two grams or less can carry sentences of one year in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. When you have up to 10 grams, that carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison. Four years in prison is a sentence when you have up to 100 grams of cocaine in your possession. Plus, your driving privileges will be suspended for at least six months for a first offense and up to two years for multiple offenses.
Heroin Laws & Targeting
Heroin is the most dangerous common drug and carries a mandatory minimum of a two-year prison sentence for possession of one to five grams of heroin. Up to three years in prison if you have more than five grams of heroin in your possession. In Pennsylvania, heroin carries these harsh penalties because there is no accepted medical use for the drug. You could be a first-time offender or a third-time offender, but with heroin, you’re going to need the best drug case lawyers on your side to avoid the harshest of penalties. Pennsylvania will also help offenders with rehabilitation programs.
Marijuana Laws
In Pennsylvania, marijuana has been approved for medical use and decriminalized in some areas of the state, including Philadelphia. While it is still treated as and targeted as a controlled substance, knowingly possessing it can result in an arrest. The penalties aren’t as harsh as cocaine or heroin but you’re facing $5,000 in fines and up to one year in jail if you’re caught with more than 30 grams of marijuana. Penalties will increase for repeat offenders.
When you’ve been arrested for a drug charge, consult with an attorney to provide the best defense possible. Our attorneys will hear your case and prepare a strategy to help you beat the charge or walk away with lesser charges. Contact us when you need a reputable Philadelphia drug lawyer.