Understanding Drug Crimes in Colorado
Drug crimes refer to a broad category of acts involving illegal drugs. They include the use, possession, manufacturing, and distribution of unlawful controlled substances as well as unauthorized prescriptions and drug paraphernalia.
Possession
It is illegal to possess a controlled substance in Colorado. This also includes prescriptions without authorization and drug paraphernalia. The type and amount of drugs that are possessed will determine whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Manufacturing and Distribution
It is against the law to manufacture, sell, or distribute a controlled substance. Manufacturing and distribution are some of the most serious drug crimes, attracting harsh penalties.
Colorado Penalties for Drug Crime Convictions
Although every drug crime charge should be considered serious, drug possession charges can sometimes be treated as misdemeanor offenses. For example, simple possession of less than 4 grams of cocaine will be treated as a class 1 drug misdemeanor.
However, having in possession more drugs than an individual would personally use is considered drug possession with intent to distribute. Possession of controlled substances with the intent to distribute is a crime that typically results in felony charges and harsh penalties. Possessing more than 112 grams of methamphetamine, for instance, will result in a class 1 drug felony which carries a mandatory prison sentence of 8-32 years. Class 2, 3, and 4 drug felonies also come with the possibility of prison, but the court will typically have other options available to it, including:
- Probation or community supervision
- Court-ordered drug counseling sessions or rehabilitation
- Community service
- Jail time
- Fines
Why Fight a Drug Crime Allegation in Colorado
A conviction for a drug crime can have serious, long-lasting consequences.
Aside from any penalty you receive, a conviction for a drug offense can negatively impact your ability to find work, maintain personal relationships, secure a loan, enlist in the military, or own a gun.
For these reasons, you should immediately contact Rick Silver Law if you've been charged with a drug crime.
We Have the Experience You Need
Even minor drug offenses can attract harsh penalties and affect your future. The law around drug offenses is complex and can involve both state and federal authorities. So, it's important to find a defense lawyer who is well-versed in these types of offenses. Criminal defense attorney Rick Silver has 15 years of experience handling serious drug cases and has tried and won both drug possession and drug distribution cases. While every case and every defense is different, we have the experience you need to craft a winning defense strategy.
Don't Delay
The prosecution is already working on your case. You should be too. Although you may not want to think about your drug charges, the sooner you take action to handle them, the sooner you will regain control of your life. The first step is calling Rick Silver Law.
Contact Rick Silver Law in Fort Collins
With the help of a lawyer experienced in defending drug crimes, you can minimize the potential effects of a drug conviction on your future or even avoid a conviction in the first place. Get started on your defense by contacting Rick Silver Law either by calling 970-658-6582 or filling out an online form today to schedule a Free Consultation.