22 Feb 2024
Criminal Defense
Recent data shows that nearly 1.16 million Americans are arrested annually for drug-related offenses. Drug crimes come in many different forms based on intention and quantity. Each crime has its own set of rules and consequences in the eyes of the law. Knowing what you’re up against when it comes to drug crime laws is crucial.
Why is it important to understand these laws? Because knowing the law helps you avoid breaking it. Also, knowing your rights and options helps you maintain and defend your innocence should you find yourself facing charges.
The attorneys at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC can explain the various drug crimes, their implications, and the potential consequences of being found guilty of committing them.
The Different Types of Drug Crimes
Let's start with a brief overview of the five most common types of drug crimes.Drug Possession
Drug possession charges are given to individuals who have been found with illegal drugs on their person (actual possession) or in a place they control, such as their car or house (constructive possession). There's a thin line between having drugs for personal use and having enough to sell. The first might land you a fine or a warning, but the latter, known as possession with intent to distribute, could put you in prison for a significant amount of time.Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is a major part of the illegal drug trade, involving the sale, transport, and distribution of drugs on a large scale across borders and through cities. The most common, yet very dangerous drugs involved in trafficking include cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Because of its scale and impact, the types of drug crime penalties for trafficking are much more severe than those for possession. The law sees trafficking as one of the main engines driving the country’s drug problem, so the penalties are significant. If you're caught trafficking drugs, you'll likely face serious time—years, sometimes decades, in prison.Drug Manufacturing
Every dose of a controlled substance illegally purchased, consumed, or possessed was made by someone. Sometimes, the manufacture of certain drugs is legal, even if they’re not meant for distribution. But more often than not, drug manufacturing is highly illegal. Examples include meth labs and marijuana farms set up in secluded areas. Penalties for drug manufacturing typically depend on how big the operation is and what kind of drug is being made. Small-scale setups might face lesser charges, but if you're running a large operation or manufacturing highly dangerous substances, there is a very good chance that you will face serious time and the charges will become part of your permanent criminal record.Drug Distribution
This is probably the most common type of drug crime prevalent today. Drug distribution bridges the gap between the manufacturer and the end user. It is a critical piece of the drug trade puzzle, closely tied to both trafficking and manufacturing. Drug crime laws hit hard on distribution because they keep drugs flowing on the streets. If you're caught distributing, expect heavy penalties such as serious jail time and big fines.Drug Paraphernalia
Drug paraphernalia can be defined as any item used to produce, conceal, or consume a controlled substance. It may include:- Roach clips
- Spoons
- Pipes
- Needles
- Syringes
- Clear plastic baggies
- Razor blades
- Scales
- Vials
- Lighters
- Dugouts
- Bongs