It is illegal in Arizona to possess, use, sell, manufacture, or transport drugs. The consequences can be severe if you have been charged with a drug crime, even if it is something as minor as possessing a small amount of marijuana. Depending on the quantity of drugs seized and your prior criminal record, you could be looking at serious consequences including jail time and hefty fines. A drug conviction could also cause you to lose your job, your professional license, and possibly your career, depending on the circumstances of the case. At Mushkatel, Robbins & Becker, PLLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys help our clients fight drug charges and avoid jail time. We will diligently review the facts of your case to help you obtain the best possible outcome. To begin building your defense, please contact us at 480-467-3434.
What Are The Consequences of Drug Possession of Marijuana in Arizona?
While some states have recently moved to legalize marijuana, Arizona continues to charge individuals who illegally possess marijuana. Possession of a small amount of marijuana: It is a felony to possess marijuana in Arizona if not in compliance with the laws governing the use of medical marijuana. Possessing less than two pounds of marijuana for personal use is a Class 6 felony punishable by up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $750. It may be possible, however, to seek probation instead of jail time for a first offense.
- Possession of over two pounds of marijuana: Possession of two to four pounds of marijuana is a Class 5 felony punishable by a minimum sentence of six months and a maximum sentence of two and a half years with a fine of $750. Possessing more than four pounds of marijuana for personal use is a Class 4 felony punishable by up to three years and nine months in jail.
- Selling marijuana: Selling less than two pounds of marijuana is a Class 4 felony. Selling between two and four pounds of marijuana is a Class 3 felony and selling more than four pounds is a Class 2 felony. The punishments for these crimes get progressively severe.
It is a Class 6 to possess drug paraphernalia; a Class 2 or 3 felony to traffic marijuana; and a Class 3, 4, or 5 felony to manufacture marijuana in Arizona, depending on the quantity seized and circumstances of the arrest.
What Are The Types of Controlled Substances?
The types of drug possession charges you may face depends on your prior criminal history, the quantity of the drug allegedly possessed and the type of controlled substance involved. Arizona law categorizes drugs as the following:
- Dangerous: These are hallucinogens and stimulants. Possession of a dangerous drug can result in a Class 4 felony drug conviction punishable by 18 months to three years in jail or prison and a fine of up to $1,000 or up to three times the value of the substance.
- Narcotic: These are natural or synthetic drugs that are narcotic such as cannabis, heroin, opium, LSD, and codeine. Possession of a narcotic drug can result in a Class 4 felony punishable by up to three years and a fine of $2,000 or up to three times the value of the substance involved.
- Prescription Drugs: These are drugs that are not categorized as narcotic or dangerous, but do require permission for use from a medical professional. Possession of a prescription drug can result in a Class 1 misdemeanor drug conviction punishable by six months in jail and fine of up to $1,000.
Contact a Phoenix Drug Crime Lawyer to Protect Your Future
In addition to jail time and fines, a drug crime conviction can also result in probation, mandatory drug treatment, and the creation of a criminal record. At Mushkatel, Robbins & Becker, PLLC, we provide free consultations to anyone facing drug crimes. Call us today at 480-467-3434 to discuss building your defense strategy and protecting your reputation and future.
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