Law enforcement in the state of Pennsylvania takes drug crimes very seriously. The penalties an individual may face if they commit a drug crime have the potential to impact them for the rest of their life. It is because of this that those facing drug charges should retain the services of an experienced Pennsylvania criminal law attorney who can effectively represent their best interests.
Types of Drug Crimes in Pennsylvania
The type of drug crime a person can be charged with varies depending on the nature of the offense in addition to the type of drug in question. There are many controlled substances that can result in a criminal charge, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, LSD, fentanyl, and more. While drug possession is one of the most common charges that a person can face, others can include the following:
- Sale or distribution of a drug
- Cultivation of a drug
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession or sale of a drug in a school zone
Marijuana Laws in Pennsylvania
While many states have moved towards the legalization of recreational marijuana, it is still considered to be illegal in the state of Pennsylvania. The consequences of marijuana possession in Pennsylvania are as follows:
- Possession of 30 grams of marijuana is a misdemeanor offense that can result in up to 30 days of incarceration as well as a fine of up to $500
- Possession of more than 30 grams of marijuana is also a misdemeanor offense that can result in up to one year in jail as well as a fine of up to $5000
Cocaine Possession Laws in Pennsylvania
When a person is found to be in possession of cocaine, this is a serious offense. The consequences of these charges can vary depending on the nature of the offense. This can include:
- First Offense: This is a misdemeanor charge with fines of up to $5,000.
- Second Offense: This charge can result in up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Drug Trafficking
In the event of drug trafficking, it is important to know that the penalties can increase significantly. This can result in up to 15 years in prison and fines as high as $250,000 or more. These are dependent upon the value of the drugs involved. These penalties can be doubled if the offender is found to be selling cocaine to a minor.
Contact our Firm
Attorney Newman has represented clients in Pennsylvania for over 45 years. If you need an experienced attorney to help guide you through the personal injury claims process or with any criminal defense matters, Attorney Newman is ready to help. Contact The Law Office of Neal E. Newman today to schedule a consultation.