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How Drug Charges are Classified in Missouri

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How Drug Charges are Classified in Missouri

How Drug Charges are Classified in Missouri

Missouri is known for having some of the toughest drug laws in the country. If convicted, you may face lengthy prison sentences, high fines, and more. The majority of drug crimes in the state are classified as felonies, the most serious type of criminal offenses. The only exception to this is possessing less than 35 grams of marijuana. Regardless of whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, you need someone fighting for your rights. Our Missouri criminal defense lawyer outlines a few of the different types of drug cases we can help with.

Drug Possession Offenses

Illegal drugs are classified into five separate categories by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. These categories are known as schedules. The classification of drug possession offenses will depend on the type of drugs in a person’s possession, the quantity of drugs, and the defendant’s criminal history. The classification of drug possession offenses are as follows:

  • Class D misdemeanors, which carry a penalty of a maximum fine of $500
  • Class A misdemeanors, which are punishable by a maximum one year in jail and a fine of no more than $2,000, or
  • Class D felonies, which carry a prison sentence of up to seven years for those convicted

Marijuana Possession Offenses

Marijuana is not legal for recreational use in the state of Missouri. Individuals who use marijuana to treat a medical condition must obtain a Standard Physician Certification, which allows them to purchase up to four ounces of marijuana each month from a licensed dispensary.

Individuals who are found in possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana will face Class D misdemeanor. When an individual has a previous drug conviction on their record, the charge is upgraded to a Class A misdemeanor. Even when individuals hold the appropriate certification for medical marijuana, they can still face charges. It is more rare, but these individuals may be criminally charged if they possess more than the amount allowed under the law, or if they consumed the medical cannabis in public.

The Illegal Manufacturing and Selling of Drugs

Anyone who illegally cultivates or manufactures illegal drugs in Missouri will face Class A felony charges. The penalty for a conviction of a Class A felony is between 10 and 30 years in state prison.

Individuals who sell illicit drugs or possess illegal drugs with the intent to sell them will face Class B felony charges. If convicted, a person will face between five and 15 years in prison. Drug trafficking is typically classified as a Class A felony. The penalties upon conviction vary depending on the quantity and type of illegal drugs involved.

Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Missouri Can Help You Beat Your Charges

Regardless of the type of drug offense you have been charged with, our Missouri criminal defense lawyer can help. Scott A. Hamblin has extensive experience successfully defending these types of cases, and he will put it to work for you. Call us now or contact us online to request a consultation and to learn more about your legal options.

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