Written by Canterbury Law Group

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

DUI, or driving under the influence, typically involvesștiintoxication with alcohol. However, alcohol is only one of numerous substances that can impair an individual’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. Driving under the influence of drugs, including both legal and illegal substances, can also result in DUI charges.

Mixing drugs with driving, whether it’s medical marijuana or legally prescribed muscle relaxants, is as illegal as driving under the influence of alcohol and can also constitute a DUI offenseștii.știi.știi. There is no defense to drugged driving charges based on doctor’s orders.

According to a survey conducted in 2010 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 10 million Americans drove under the influence of illegal drugs during the previous year. In 2009, more than 18 percent of fatally injured drivers tested positive for at least one illegal or prescription drug, per a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration study (NHTSA). According to another NHTSA survey, one in five motorists killed in car accidents in 2009 tested positive for drugs.

Different drugs have different effects on drivers. However, substances that impair judgment, vigilance, concentration, or motor skills are regarded as equally (if not more) hazardous than alcohol.

Assessing Drug Impaired Driving

In all fifty states, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. At the time of a traffic stop, it is relatively simple to determine a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) due to the rapid elimination of ethanol fromștiinștiinthebodyștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștii And since Breathalyzer tests are highly accurate, readings of 0.08 percent or higher frequently result in a guilty plea or conviction for DUI if the traffic stop was conducted according to protocol.

This is not the case for substances other than alcohol.

For instance, the psychoactive component of marijuana (THC) is detectable in a person’s urine or bloodstream for up to four or five weeks after use, and it is impossible to definitively detect impairment at a specific time. Cocaine, on the other hand, is typically eliminated from the body within two days. In a letter to Congress, the NHTSA acknowledged that current knowledge regarding drugs other than alcohol is “insufficient to permit the identification of dosage limits that are associated with an increased crash risk.”

Some jurisdictions employ “Drug Recognition Experts” (DREs) — police officers with specialized training who follow specific guidelines to determine drug impairment in drivers. DREs scrutinize a person’s eye movements, behavior, and other indicators of drug use. The District of Columbia and 44 states have Drug Evaluation and Classification Programs in place to train DREs.

Typically, a urinalysis or a blood sample is utilized to detect the presence of drugs.știinștiinștiinștiiștiinștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștiiștii

Per se drugged driving laws

15 states have what are known as “per se” drugged driving laws, even though it is more difficult to prosecute drivers accused of driving under the influence of drugs as opposed to alcohol. It is against the law to operate a motor vehicle with any detectable amount of certain drugs in one’s system, according to these DUI laws.

Arizona, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin are the 15 states that have laws against driving under the influence of drugs that apply to all drivers. The remaining 12 states have a zero-tolerance policy for the presence of intoxicating drugs.

North Carolina and South Dakota prohibit drivers under the age of 21 from possessing any detectable amount of an illegal or otherwise prohibited substance. In five states (California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, and West Virginia), it is illegal for known drug addicts and regular drug users to operate a motor vehicle.

Intoxicating Effects of Several Illegal Drugs

  • Relaxation, euphoria, disorientation, altered time and space perception, drowsiness, paranoia, image distortion, and a heightened heart rate are the effects of marijuana.
  • Cocaine causes euphoria, excitement, dizziness, increased focus and alertness (initially), confusion and disoriented behavior, irritability, paranoia, hostility, and a heightened heart rate.
  • Methamphetamine causes euphoria, excitement, hallucinations, delusions, insomnia, poor impulse control, an elevated heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
  • Intense euphoria, drowsiness, relaxation, sedation, disconnection, mental clouding, analgesia, slowed heart rate, nausea and vomiting, and diminished reflexes are the effects of morphine and heroin.
  • Hallucinations, altered mental state, delusions, impaired depth, time, and space perception, hypertension, and tremors are all side effects of LSD.

Prescription & Nonprescription Drugs

Some drugs purchased legally at a pharmacy, whether prescribed by a doctor or purchased over-the-counter (OTC), can be just as dangerous for drivers as alcohol and can result in a DUI. If you are uncertain about a drug’s potential to impair, consult the label or your pharmacist.

The following prescription and over-the-counter medications can impair driving:

Some sedating antidepressants cause impairment comparable to that of a drunk driver.

  • Valium: 10 mg of the popular tranquilizer can cause impairment comparable to 0.10 percent blood alcohol content.
  • Many antihistamines reduce reaction time and impair coordination.
  • Numerous over-the-counter decongestants can induce drowsiness, anxiety, and vertigo.
  • Even in the morning, the residual effects of sleeping pills can impair driving.
  • Hydrocodone, the active ingredient in Vicodin, is comparable to opiates and causes impairment comparable to morphine and codeine (oxycodone has similar effects).

Medical Cannabis

DUI charges may still be filed against motorists who reside in states that permit the medical use of marijuana with a valid doctor’s recommendation. Consequently, if the officer and/or drug recognition expert have collected sufficient evidence of marijuana impairment, a valid medical exemption cannot be used as a defense. In this regard, medical marijuana is identical to other prescription drugs that can cause impairment.

Are you under arrest for driving while impaired by drugs? Obtain Legal Aid

DUI charges involving alcohol are easier to prove because the devices used to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) are fairly accurate. However, the situation becomes more complicated when other substances are involved. As it is difficult for officers to determine the level of impairment at any given time, a skilled attorney can often provide an effective defense against such charges. If you have been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced DUI lawyer in your area as soon as possible.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Possession of Meth: Charges and Penalties

Possession of Meth: Charges and Penalties

Methamphetamine, colloquially referred to as “crystal meth,” is a highly addictive substance. Meth is classified as a schedule II controlled substance under federal law. Meth possession, sale, or manufacture is a federal and state crime. Additionally, it is a very dangerous drug, posing numerous health and safety risks to those who use or manufacture it.

The United States has faced repeated surges of meth abuse over the last three decades. As a result, the federal government and individual states have enacted legislation increasing the severity of penalties for those convicted of selling (distributing), manufacturing, or trafficking meth. States have taken a variety of approaches to possession penalties. Certain states have reduced possession penalties on the grounds that personal use frequently results in addiction. Other states have not followed suit, and tough-on-crime legislation remains on their books.

This article will discuss the penalties for meth possession and its precursors. The penalties for selling, manufacturing, and trafficking meth are significantly more severe, with numerous enhancements for crimes that endanger children, life, or property.

How Is Crystal Meth Defined?

While many drugs, such as cocaine and marijuana, are derived from plants, meth is synthesized through the use of chemicals. It is frequently synthesized as a white powdery or rock-like substance that is smoked, snorted, or injected. Meth is frequently referred to as “crystal meth” due to its rock-like appearance. Additionally, meth is referred to by a variety of other names, including “ice,” “crank,” “speed,” and “glass.”

The manufacturing process is quite hazardous, as it involves the use of explosive and noxious chemicals that have a negative impact on the environment. Homes, apartments, and other structures that have been used as meth labs require extensive detoxification and are frequently demolished to save money on remediation.

What Is the Difference Between Meth Precursors and Paraphernalia?

Apart from prohibiting possession of meth, the majority of jurisdictions make it illegal to possess the chemicals used to manufacture meth (known as “precursors”). Ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, and norpseudoephedrine are all precursors to meth. Numerous states and the federal government criminalize the possession and retail sale of precursors in specified amounts. For example, it is a misdemeanor under federal law to purchase more than nine grams of meth precursors within a 30-day period. Regulations and penalties vary by state.

Additionally, most states prohibit the possession of paraphernalia used in the sale or manufacture of meth, such as scales or balances, or used to smoke or inject meth, such as glass pipes.

What Exactly Is Possession?

To convict someone of meth possession, the prosecutor must establish beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant possessed the drug with knowledge.

Knowingly implies that the individual was aware that the substance was a drug and that they possessed it. For instance, if a packet of drugs is slipped into another person’s bag, the bag owner does not knowingly possess the drugs.

Possession can refer to either actual or constructive possession of the drug by the defendant. Actual possession implies that the individual possesses the drugs (such as in their hands or a coat pocket). If the drugs are not physically on the defendant—say, in a drawer or trunk of a vehicle—the prosecutor must establish that the defendant had constructive possession of the drugs. Constructive possession requires the prosecutor to establish that the defendant was aware of the drug and exercised “control” over it. Control could entail possessing the key to the car trunk or having access to the drawer containing the drugs.

Possession of Crystal Meth: Crimes and Penalties

Penalties for possession of meth vary according to whether the case was brought under federal or state law. Convictions carry a range of penalties, from a fine or a misdemeanor jail sentence to a lengthy prison sentence for felonies.

Federal Penalties for Meth Possession in the Unlawful Possession of Meth

Under federal law, knowingly or intentionally possessing meth is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison on a first offense. Subsequent meth possession offenses, on the other hand, carry mandatory minimum sentences and are punishable as felonies. A second offense carries a mandatory minimum of 15 days in jail and a maximum of two years in prison, as well as a minimum $2,500 fine. A third or subsequent offense carries a sentence of 90 days to three years in prison and a minimum $5,000 fine.

Simple Possession of Meth: State Penalties

State penalties for meth vary significantly, ranging from traffic violations and minor misdemeanors to felonies. Certain states adhere to the federal model, which criminalizes simple possession regardless of the quantity or type of drug involved. Other states impose penalties based on the quantity or type of drug involved, or a combination of the two. The majority of states have enhanced penalties for subsequent convictions.

Defenses Against Prosecution and Immunity From Prosecution

Depending on the facts of the case, a defendant may be able to defend against possession charges or avoid charges being filed in the first place.

Defenses. Several common defense strategies for defending against drug possession charges include the following:

Attempting to suppress evidence of the drugs on the basis of an unauthorized search or seizure, and

Defending the prosecution’s case by claiming the defendant did not possess the drugs (lack of knowledge or control over the drugs).

Laws governing good Samaritans. To combat drug overdoses, several states have enacted Good Samaritan laws that shield individuals from certain drug charges when seeking medical assistance for themselves or others. These laws are intended to encourage people to seek assistance without fear of arrest or being charged with drug possession. States vary in their implementation of these Good Samaritan protections. Some allow a defendant to assert this defense, while others grant immunity from prosecution for specific possession charges.

Consult an Attorney

Being charged with a meth possession offense can be extremely serious. Consult an attorney who is familiar with the applicable drug laws and penalties in your particular case. A skilled criminal defense attorney can assess your case and any possible defenses.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Arizona Heroin Laws

Arizona Heroin Laws

Under federal and state law, heroin and other illicit narcotic drugs are illegal, but many states now offer drug diversion programs to help drug addicts get treatment instead of going to prison. The powerful opiate is classified as a Schedule I drug in Arizona (making its possession a felony). However, if the defendant has never been convicted of a felony, the court has the option of making it a Class 1 misdemeanor. If this is the case, the fine must be at least $1000 or three times the value of the substance, whichever is higher. The following graph summarizes the various heroin offenses, with a more detailed breakdown below.

Section of the Code

13-3401 et cetera; 36-2501 et cetera

Possession

Class 4 felony, but the court can reduce it to a Class 1 misdemeanor if the offender has never been convicted of a felony; fine of not less than $1000 or three times the value of the substance, whichever is greater;

Sale

Class 3 felony punishable by a fine equal to three times the drug’s value or $1,000; Sale to a minor is a Class 2 felony punishable by a fine of $2000 or three times the value of the item, whichever is greater. For selling to minors in a drug-free school zone, add one year to the sentence and a fine.

Trafficking

Transportation/importation is a Class 2 felony (manufacture)

Heroin is in your possession.

Possession of heroin is a felony drug charge in Arizona. This means that a sentence of at least two years and six months in prison is expected. A court may be able to reduce the drug charge to a Class 1 Misdemeanor depending on the street value of the heroin in possession. If the defendant agrees, this is an option. In addition to the jail time, the fine is $1000, or three times the heroin’s street value, whichever is greater.

Heroin is being sold.

Selling heroin is a Class 3 felony, which means the penalty is more severe than simple possession, which is a Class 4 felony. If the sale is to a minor, the crime is elevated to a Class 2 felony, and if the sale occurs in a drug-free school zone, the sentence is increased by one year. A Class 3 felony carries a fine of $1000 or three times the value of the drugs, whichever is higher. The minimum fine is $2000 if the sale is to a minor.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Medical Marijuana Laws

Medical Marijuana Laws

The use, possession, and/or cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes is referred to as “medical marijuana.” Medical marijuana is frequently requested as a form of treatment and/or pain relief by people who are terminally ill or suffer from painful or long-term symptoms associated with certain diseases, such as epilepsy, AIDS, glaucoma, and cancer. Medical marijuana is, in general, no different than regular marijuana (or cannabis).

State vs. Federal Law on Medical Marijuana

  • Within their borders, a growing number of states have legalized medical cannabis. Marijuana, on the other hand, is classified as a “Schedule I drug” under the federal Controlled Substances Act, which means it:
  • There’s a chance it’ll be abused.
  • In the United States, there is currently no accepted medical use for it in treatment, and
  • Hasn’t been proven to be safe when used under medical supervision.
  • As a result, there is a growing debate about the legality of personal medical marijuana use.

On one hand, some politicians and law enforcement officials want to combat illegal marijuana use and control some of the consequences, such as the “wide open sale of marijuana under the guise of medical use.” On the other hand, some health advocates and other drug legalization groups want to legalize marijuana for medical purposes, believing that the drug is an effective treatment for a variety of ailments.

When the Obama Administration took office in 2009, the US government shifted its focus to larger drug-trafficking issues, with the Department of Justice stating that it would not prioritize the enforcement of federal marijuana laws against authorized medical marijuana users or their caregivers. The Department of Justice, on the other hand, resumed its prosecution of medical marijuana providers in 2011, putting pressure on publishers who run ads for dispensaries.

Marijuana Laws for Medical Use

Medical marijuana laws are constantly changing and differ depending on where you live. Marijuana use, cultivation, sale, and possession are all illegal under federal and state law. The federal Supreme Court, for example, has ruled that using, selling, or possessing marijuana, even for medical purposes, is illegal (in the 2005 case of Gonzales v. Raich).

A growing number of states have legalized marijuana for medical (and even recreational) use, removing any criminal penalties imposed on doctors who prescribe it or patients who use it within state law’s limits. When California passed Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act, in 1996, it became the first state to legalize medical marijuana. On a doctor’s recommendation, the law allows for the possession and cultivation of marijuana for medical purposes.

State medical marijuana laws usually define the conditions under which the herb can be prescribed, grown, possessed, and used. States may, for example, require written documentation from a person’s doctor stating that the person has a debilitating condition that would benefit from medical marijuana use. States may also require people to present this documentation, also known as a “marijuana ID card,” before being arrested.

Other provisions could include restrictions on the types of illnesses that can be treated with marijuana, such as HIV and AIDS, as well as the amount of marijuana that can be possessed, used, or grown. Finally, some states have additional provisions, such as restrictions on medical marijuana use at work for employees and ID card requirements and fees.

Penalties for Medical Marijuana

Depending on the nature of the offense and the state where the occurrence occurred, penalties for medical marijuana violations may include prison time, fines, or both. The charges are treated as general misdemeanor or felony drug charges in states that have not legalized marijuana for medical purposes.

Although penalties such as prison or fines may still apply in states that have decriminalized medical marijuana, offenses are frequently treated as minor civil infractions.

Punishable circumstances may include, for example:

  • Possession of more than a specified amount (in grams);
  • The sale of the drug to or from others, particularly a “minor”;
  • The cultivation of the drug in jurisdictions where it is prohibited; and
  • Marijuana paraphernalia possession

Know Your Legal Rights: Know Your Defenses

Patients arrested on drug charges may use their medical status as a defense, either before or during the trial, to help reduce the severity of the penalties. A patient may also show a doctor’s recommendation for marijuana to reduce penalties and avoid jail time or fines entirely. Finally, due to the clinical nature of his or her health condition, a patient may wish to assert the defense of medical necessity.

It’s crucial to speak with a lawyer who specializes in medical marijuana cases to learn about your rights and responsibilities when it comes to medical marijuana use and/or charges.

From an Attorney, Learn More About Medical Marijuana Laws

Understanding the financial and personal consequences of state and federal marijuana convictions and other criminal sentences is crucial. As a result, if you’ve been charged with a drug crime, your best move is to speak with a criminal defense attorney.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Drug Paraphernalia Charges

Drug Paraphernalia Charges

While most people are aware that drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin are illegal under federal and state law, you may not be aware that people can be prosecuted for owning or selling related items or objects, even if they aren’t in possession of the drugs themselves. This article will teach you everything you need to know about drug-related paraphernalia laws.

Laws Concerning Drug Paraphernalia

It is illegal to do any of the following under federal law:

  • To offer to sell or sell drug paraphernalia
  • Drug paraphernalia can be mailed or transported through interstate commerce.
  • Drug paraphernalia can be imported or exported.
  • Possession of paraphernalia alone is not a federal offense. However, it is illegal in some states to simply own or possess these items. Police may search for drug residue, and if it’s obvious that a pipe, bong, hookah, or other item was used to smoke illegal substances, a person could be charged with drug paraphernalia.

 

Numerous specific examples of prohibited paraphernalia are listed in federal law, including:

  • Glass, wood, stone, plastic, and ceramic pipes
  • Bongs, water pipes, and chillums (a long hollow pipe usually made of clay)
  • Clips of roach (objects used to hold burning materials like rolled cigarettes or joints that are too small to be held by hand),
  • Snorting cocaine with miniature spoons that hold less than a tenth of a cubic centimeter
  • Freebase cocaine kits, also known as paraphernalia, are items that are used to smoke cocaine

Some states have longer lists of prohibited items than others. Washington State, for example, adds:

  • Weighing scales and balances for controlled substances
  • Instruments for determining the strength or purity of controlled substances
  • To “cut” or dilute the strength of narcotics, materials or chemicals are used.
  • Injecting controlled substances with syringes or needles.

Law enforcement officials must use a variety of factors to distinguish between a legal physical object (such as a scale or a spoon) and illegal drug paraphernalia, according to both federal and state laws.

Certain objects, such as bongs and roach clips, may have been removed from the list in states that have legalized marijuana for recreational use. Even if a state no longer prohibits the sale of these items, it’s important to remember that federal law still considers them to be illegal drug paraphernalia.

Penalties for Possessing or Distributing a Controlled Substance

The penalties for drug paraphernalia offenses are generally less severe than those for offenses involving illicit drugs. The maximum penalty for selling paraphernalia under federal law is three years in prison plus a fine. As previously stated, federal law does not make possession illegal in and of itself.

Penalties vary depending on the state. In Ohio, for example, drug paraphernalia possession is a fourth-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine, but dealing in paraphernalia is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in prison and a fine (up to 90 days in jail plus a larger fine). While most states treat paraphernalia distribution as a misdemeanor, if it involves the sale of items to minors, some states make it a felony.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

What is the Controlled Substances Act?

What is the Controlled Substances Act?

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) encapsulates the federal government’s comprehensive efforts to regulate the manufacture, possession, dispensing, distribution, and use of specific drugs and other dangerous substances (together, controlled substances). Significant civil and criminal penalties may be imposed on anyone who violates the CSA in an unlawful manner.

The CSA has classified a large number of different products into five schedules. These controlled substances are classified according to their characteristics, which include their medicinal value, potential for abuse, public safety, and likelihood of dependence. By classifying these drugs and substances, it becomes easier to regulate or de-regulate them as necessary.

Who Has the Authority to Reclassify or Declassify a Drug or Substance?

Occasionally, the Attorney General may initiate a proceeding to regulate or transfer a drug from one schedule to another based on a scientific and medical evaluation by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the aforementioned characteristics.

Additionally, the Attorney General may initiate such a proceeding on the petition of a “interested party,” such as the DEA, the United States Department of Health and Human Services, a drug manufacturer, a public interest group, an individual citizen, or a state or local agency.

What Substances or Drugs Are Included in the CSA Schedules?

The list of different types of drugs and substances covered by the CSA’s five schedules is fairly exhaustive, but they generally fall into a few easily identifiable larger groups. Among the products in this category are the following:

  • Heroin, methadone, morphine, opium, and fentanyl are all examples of narcotics.
  • Cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines are stimulants.
  • GHB, rohypnol, and benzodiazepines are all examples of depressants.
  • LSD, peyote, and ecstasy are all hallucinogens.
  • Other substances include marijuana, steroid anabolic steroids, and inhalants (basically, household products such as spray paint, felt markers, or anything else that emits chemical vapors and can be inhaled for psychoactive effects).

The schedules are ranked from most dangerous to least dangerous (i.e., lowest medicinal value and greatest potential for abuse) (most medical value and least potential for abuse). More precisely:

Drugs and substances classified as Schedule I have no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse and dependence. They include well-known substances such as heroin, ecstasy, and marijuana.

  • Schedule II drugs and substances have a lower abuse potential than Schedule I drugs and substances and some accepted medical uses. They do, however, carry a high risk of psychological or physical dependence. Vicodin, cocaine, and oxycontin are just a few examples.
  • On the other hand, while schedule III drugs and substances are still considered dangerous in comparison to schedules IV and V, they have a lower potential for abuse and also have some medically accepted uses.
  • They pose a risk of physical or psychological dependence on a moderate to low level. Codeine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone are all Schedule III substances.
  • When compared to schedules 1-3 controlled substances, schedule IV drugs and substances are considered to have a low potential for abuse.
  • When compared to other drugs and substances, they have a recognized medical use and a low risk of developing dependence. Valium, Ambien, and Xanax are classified as Schedule IV medications.
  • When compared to other scheduled drugs and substances, Schedule V drugs and substances have the lowest potential for abuse. They have a recognized medical use and, in comparison to other Scheduled Controlled Substances, a low risk of physical or psychological dependence.
  • They contain trace amounts of narcotics. Cough medications are classified as Schedule V.

How is the CSA used to regulate drugs?

The CSA requires manufacturers, distributors, and dispensers of certain controlled substances to register them. The regulations determine whether registration of these products is in the public interest and establish the most stringent safeguards appropriate for the product’s schedule.

Essentially, manufacturers, distributors, and dispensers, as applicable, are required to implement effective safeguards (i.e. labeling, packaging, and record keeping) to prevent the controlled substance from being unlawfully diverted.

Additionally, the CSA makes it illegal to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute it or to be in possession of a controlled substance without authorization. It imposes penalties on the seller and the drug user based on the scheduled (i.e. type and quantity) drug or substance.

Additionally, your motivation for possessing the controlled substance will be considered. For instance, whether you intended to sell the drugs or to use them personally can make a difference. In general, personal possession of a controlled substance carries a lighter sentence than possession with the intent to sell. Anyone found in violation of the CSA may face jail time and fines.

Do I Need a Lawyer if I’m Charged with a Controlled Substances Offense?

If you are facing charges under the Controlled Substances Act, you should consult a local drug attorney. A lawyer will explain your rights and assist you in mounting a vigorous defense against the charges.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Arizona Heroin Possession Lawyers

Arizona Heroin Possession Lawyers

Heroin is one of the most widely available illicit drugs. Federal law prohibits the sale, possession, or trafficking of the drug across state lines. Additionally, it is illegal to sell, possess, or traffic heroin in the state of Arizona.

Does Arizona Classify Heroin as a Schedule I Substance?

Yes, Arizona classifies heroin as a Schedule I controlled substance. Because heroin is considered one of the most addictive drugs, it is classified as a felony under this category.

Is There a Certain Amount of Heroin That Constitutes Heroin Possession?

Yes, possessing a gram or more of heroin is considered a crime.

Why Was I Charged in Arizona with Heroin Possession?

There are two scenarios in which you can be charged with heroin possession. The individual possesses heroin and is physically in control of it. The other is constructive possession, which occurs when an individual possesses heroin but does not have it directly in their possession, but still has the intent and ability to control it.

What is the Arizona Penalty for First-Time Heroin Possession?

Heroin possession is a class 4 felony. A minimum of two years and six months in prison is the penalty. Maximum prison sentence is 12 and a half years.

Could a Charge of Heroin Possession Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?

Yes. If the defendant has never been convicted of a felony, the court may reduce the charge to a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and a fine.

What if This Is My Second Charge of Heroin Possession?

A second conviction for heroin possession carries a maximum sentence of 23 to 14 years in prison.

What is the Penalty for a Third Conviction of Heroin Possession?

A third conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of six years in prison. At least 35 years in prison is the maximum sentence.

Do I Need to Consult an Attorney?

Yes, it is in your best interest to consult with an Arizona criminal defense attorney regarding your heroin possession charge. You will learn whether it is possible to mitigate or dismiss the criminal charge.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Crack vs. Powder Cocaine: Penalties

Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing Charges

Historically, someone convicted of possessing one gram of crack faced a 100-fold longer sentence than someone convicted of possessing one gram of powder cocaine. What chemical distinction exists between crack cocaine and powder cocaine that accounts for this discrepancy? There is no significant chemical distinction between crack and powder cocaine; both are forms of cocaine. The stark disparity in federal sentencing laws for possession of two different forms of the same drug is more about media mythology and political pressure than it is about public safety and health. A 2010 federal law addressed some, but not all, of the disparities in sentencing.

How Is Crack Cocaine Defined?

Crack cocaine is made by dissolving powder cocaine (a coca leaf derivative) and baking soda in boiling water and then cutting the resulting paste into small “rocks” after it dries. Typically, the rocks are sold in single doses to smokers. A rock of crack cocaine is less expensive than a comparable “dose” of powder cocaine due to the inexpensive additive (baking soda). However, the two forms of the drug are chemically identical and have the same physical and psychological effects on the user. A person who smokes crack cocaine (as opposed to snorting or injecting powder cocaine) experiences a more intense high more quickly simply because smoke in the lungs affects the brain more rapidly than the other methods of ingestion.

Disparate Sentencing Provisions in the 1986 Anti-Drug Abuse Act

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 established a mandatory five-year minimum sentence for possession of five grams (or a few rocks) of crack cocaine. (21 United States Code, Section 841 (2006).) “Mandatory minimum” means precisely what it says: A person convicted of a first offense of possessing five grams of crack must serve a five-year prison sentence. In comparison, the 1986 Act required a coke-snorting user to be caught with 100 times that amount of powder cocaine (500 grams, or more than a pound) to face a similar five-year mandatory minimum sentence. This 100-to-one ratio was not arrived at through a rational analysis of the relative dangers of the two forms of the same drug; rather, during floor debate on the Act, Congress batted around various arbitrary ratios (including 20-to-one) and settled on the 100-to-one ratio. As Representative Dan Lungren (who assisted in the Act’s drafting) put it, “we didn’t really have a legal basis for it.” H6202 (156 Cong.Rec (July 28, 1986).

Under the 1986 Act, an individual caught with a few small bags of crack rocks, even if for personal use, faced the same penalties as a major powder cocaine carrier.

Fair Sentencing Act of 2010

President Obama signed the 2010 Fair Sentencing Act, repealing the five-year mandatory minimum sentence for possession of five grams of crack cocaine and increasing the amount of crack required to trigger mandatory sentencing for federal drug trafficking offenses. (See 21 U.S.C. 841, 844.) The 2010 Act reduced the ratio of crack to powder cocaine from 100 to 18 (for the purpose of imposing the same sentence for possession of each form of the drug). Thus, while the federal law continues to impose a different and harsher sentence for crack cocaine possession than for powder cocaine possession, the disparity is not nearly as great as it was under the 1986 Act.

Consult a Lawyer

Regardless of federal law changes, a charge of crack or powder cocaine is a grave offense. If you are charged with drug possession, you should consult an attorney immediately. Only an experienced criminal defense attorney familiar with state law (or, if the case is in federal court, an experienced federal practitioner) will be able to advise you on the strength of the case against you and the availability of any defenses. And only a local attorney familiar with the prosecutors and judges in your courthouse can provide an accurate assessment of how the case will likely proceed.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Cocaine Possession: Penalties and Defenses

What Happens When You Plead Guilty To a Felony?

An explanation of the ramifications of being charged with cocaine possession or usage, the criminal penalties and punishment that may be imposed, and how a lawyer may be able to assist. Read on to learn more.

Cocaine is a powdered stimulant obtained from the leaves of the coca plant in South America. Possession of any amount of cocaine without a prescription is illegal under federal and state law. Under federal and several state regulations, possessing crack cocaine (a type of cocaine that has been processed even further than powder cocaine to produce a cheaper version) carries harsher penalties. See Drug Possession Laws for further information on state laws governing cocaine possession.

What exactly is cocaine?

Cocaine is on the federal government’s list of narcotic drugs with the potential for abuse and dependency but some medical use (Schedule II drugs). (Section 802 of the United States Code.) The statute (the Controlled Substances Act) is wide enough to include any coca leaf derivative or extract. Under reality, coca leaves are categorized as one of the “narcotic” cocaine narcotics in the legislation.

People eat raw, fresh coca leaves for a mild mood and energy boost in various sections of the Andes Mountains (and also in Peru, Ecuador, and other South American countries). Under US law, leaf eating would be considered illicit cocaine usage and possession.

Cocaine possession

While we are all familiar with the common sense of “possession” (having, owning, or controlling something), the phrase has a legal definition.

Possession that is “simple”

If a person knowingly has cocaine on his or her person (such as in a pocket) or under his or her personal, physical control, he or she is in possession of cocaine illegally (for example, in a purse). Knowingly means that the individual in possession of the cocaine was aware of its presence and was aware that it was prohibited. So, if someone takes a box labeled baking soda and has no reason to believe it contains cocaine, that individual does not knowingly possess cocaine. This is the most basic and evident type of possession.

When it comes to illegal narcotic narcotics like cocaine, however, the concept of possession does not end there.

“Possession with a purpose”

A person can be charged with “constructive possession” of cocaine and other banned narcotics in the United States. When the term “constructive” is used in this context, it refers to something that is suggested, inferred, or construed by the law. As a result, a person is in constructive possession of cocaine if the law considers him or her to have legal control over the drug. This term is far broader than physical control and encompasses a lot of territory. In the most obvious scenario, if a customs inspector discovers cocaine in a person’s suitcase, that person could be prosecuted with constructive possession of narcotics. The finding of cocaine under bushes beside where an individual had parked his vehicle led to a charge of constructive possession against the vehicle owner in a far less clear setting. Individuals have been charged with constructive possession of cocaine in the following locations:

  • a person’s home, vehicle, company, or other property that he or she owns or rents
  • a hotel room where the person was a guest
  • a social group run by a single person
  • an individual’s personal storehouse, and
  • a package addressed to a specific person

The prosecutor must show that the defendant had the power and intent to control the substance, as well as knowledge that the material was cocaine, in order to convict him or her of constructive possession of cocaine.

When an individual is intimately linked with another person who has cocaine, it is sometimes enough to demonstrate constructive possession by the first person. If a scheme to jointly possess the drug can be demonstrated, an individual could be charged with constructive possession for cocaine found in the pocketbook of a passenger in his or her car, or for cocaine found in the house of another person with whom the defendant was closely linked.

Common Counter-Attacks on Cocaine Possession

There are a number of defenses to simple and constructive cocaine possession. Listed below are a handful of them.

Insufficient knowledge

If the person accused of possessing a box of cocaine that she believes to be baking soda can establish that she honestly and reasonably believed the package did not contain cocaine, she will be acquitted. However, the circumstances surrounding the cocaine’s acquisition will be crucial to this investigation. If a woman gets a box of “baking soda” from a lover she knows is a drug dealer, her story will be less convincing than if she takes the box from a shelf at a friend’s house with the intention of baking bread.

Lack of power and a desire to exert control

The government must show that the defendant intended to control the cocaine even though it wasn’t in his physical possession to prove constructive possession. The offender may be acquitted if he can establish that he had no intent to control the substance.

Penalties for Cocaine Possession

A person convicted of a first offense of cocaine possession under federal law who has no prior federal or state convictions for possession of any narcotic may be sentenced to no more than one year in jail, a fine of no less than $1,000, or both. A person convicted of cocaine possession following a prior conviction of cocaine or any other drug in either federal or state court could face a sentence of 15 days to two years in prison, a fine of not less than $2,500, or both. Two or more prior convictions in federal or state court for possession of any narcotic may result in a term of at least 90 days in jail, a fine of at least $5,000, or both. The length of time spent in prison and the amount of the fine may be influenced by the amount of drugs seized. Possession with the intent to distribute (sell) cocaine carries more harsher penalties.

States may also impose penalties for cocaine possession. Start with Drug Laws and Drug Charges for further information on illicit drug possession, including state-specific articles.

As previously stated, the penalties for possessing crack cocaine may be more severe than those for powder cocaine.

Consult a Lawyer

Possession of cocaine is a criminal offense. If you are being investigated for or charged with a crime, you should seek legal advice as soon as possible. Only an expert criminal defense lawyer familiar with your state’s laws (or, if the case is in federal court, an experienced federal practitioner) can advise you on the strength of the case against you and the availability of any defenses. Only a local attorney who is familiar with the prosecutors and judges in your courthouse can provide you with a realistic evaluation of how the case will likely develop.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

Written by Canterbury Law Group

Drug Possession Defenses

Drug Possession Defenses

If you’ve been charged with drug possession, whether for personal use or with the intent to sell, a criminal defense attorney can help you figure out what defenses you have. Some defenses object to the case’s stated facts, testimony, or evidence. Others focus on procedural flaws. Some defendants use an affirmative defense to fight drug possession accusations, which means they present evidence that proves they were operating legally or that the prosecution doesn’t have a case.

This article examines drug possession defenses, which include everything from uncommon methods to more conventional ones like criticizing the prosecution’s case or using an affirmative defense.

Unauthorized Search and Seizure

The United States Constitution’s Fourth Amendment guarantees citizens protection against the government. Authorities are only allowed to search a person’s body or property under limited circumstances. In drug possession defense cases, search and seizure challenges are widespread.

Illicit substances discovered in plain sight can be seized and used as evidence in a drug case. Drugs or drug paraphernalia on a car’s dashboard as an officer conducts a legal traffic stop are an example of plain visibility. Another example is a marijuana field seen from a plane flying overhead.

Consider the case that a cop, without permission, prys open a car’s trunk and discovers drugs. A low-flying drone, for example, may be flown over a certain place and photographed a hidden marijuana field. Without a search warrant, here are a few examples of searches that would be illegal.

If authorities get evidence through illegal means, the evidence will be excluded from the trial. Because evidence discovered during an illegal search is generally crucial to the prosecution’s case, if officers violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the government will frequently withdraw its case.

Someone else owns the drugs.

Criminal defendants accused of drug possession frequently claim that the narcotics do not belong to them or that they were unaware that they were in possession of the drugs. However, this may not be as compelling an argument as you may believe.

To be convicted of drug possession, police do not need to detect drugs on your person or directly in your possession. Prosecutors typically only need to establish that you had control of or access to the drugs.

A defense attorney may argue at trial that there is a reasonable doubt that you were aware of the drugs. This can be difficult, though, if a passenger in your automobile, for example, was taking drugs soon before or during your arrest. That is why you should always consult with a criminal defense attorney before making any accusations or arguments to the police.

Analysis by a Crime Lab

Not all ostensibly credible evidence is what it appears to be. Just because something appears to be cocaine or LSD does not mean it is. By sending evidence to a crime lab for analysis, the prosecution must show that a confiscated substance is truly the prohibited narcotic it claims to be. A criminal defense lawyer can bring up flaws with the crime lab analysis report, such as inaccuracies or contradictions. The defense might demand that the crime lab analyst testify at trial if there are any difficulties.

Problems with the Chain of Custody

Another defense to drug possession is that the drugs have gone missing. Police commonly store narcotics confiscated during an arrest or during the execution of a search warrant in an evidence room or locker. A defense attorney can question whether the medications provided as evidence were actually taken from the defendant during the trial (and not from a different case).

This is commonly referred to as a chain-of-custody assault. Other chain of custody challenges include allegations that one of the policemen handling the medications during an investigation did so inappropriately. The success of such a strategy is determined by the number of officers who handled the drugs and how successfully the police created and maintained records of such activities.

Entrapment

While cops and informants are free to set up sting operations, entrapment happens when officers or informants persuade a suspect to commit a crime that he or she would not have committed otherwise. It is not always entrapment when an undercover officer obtains narcotics from or sells drugs to a suspect.

Entrapment may be a defense if officials go so far as to harass or scare someone into committing a drug offence. A drug crime defense lawyer will be able to assist you with this intricate legal problem.

Exception for Medical Marijuana

The use of marijuana for medical purposes is never a defense for federal drug possession charges, but it may be in states where medical marijuana is authorized. Typically, states that allow such exceptions to marijuana laws require a signed doctor’s recommendation. However, several of those states also allow persons arrested for marijuana possession to assert an affirmative defense if they can provide clear and persuasive proof of medical necessity.

Do you need assistance with drug possession defenses? Make an appointment with an attorney.

If you’ve been charged with drug possession, you may have defenses that aren’t immediately evident. There are additional other defenses that may apply to your case that aren’t mentioned here. For example, if you have more than a specific amount of a narcotic in your possession, the law presumes you’re selling it. You can, however, claim that the drugs are for personal use, which could result in reduced fines and the possibility of drug treatment as part of your sentence rather than more time in prison. Other possible defenses include saying you were forced to testify or that you were threatened by others.

A criminal defense lawyer can frequently expose flaws in the prosecutor’s case. It’s in your best benefit to call an experienced, local criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you’re dealing with a criminal case.

Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer In Scottsdale or Phoenix?

Canterbury Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Phoenix and Scottsdale will defend your case with personal attention and always have you and your best interests in mind when offering legal solutions. Call today for an initial consultation! We handle criminal defense cases in all areas of Phoenix including Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Maryville, Apache Junction, and more.

We are experienced criminal defense attorneys and will fight for you to obtain the best possible outcome. Our firm will rigorously represent you, so you can get on with your life. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711 or [email protected]

*This information is not intended to be legal advice. Please contact Canterbury Law Group today to learn more about your personal legal needs.

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