Types of Drug Offenses
Our Michigan attorneys represent clients facing possession, distribution, trafficking and other charges
People charged with drug offenses in Michigan must take their cases seriously right from the start. A narcotics charge conviction can impact your entire life. You may lose your freedom. You may be unable ever to live your life the way you once did. That’s why you need to call the criminal defense lawyers at Manley & Manley.
No two drug offenses are the same, and the penalties for drug convictions can vary, depending on the case. But even a relatively minor offense can leave a permanent mark on you. Whether you are charged with possession of marijuana or distribution of crack cocaine, you'll need an experienced attorney's advice to make sure you are on the path to the best outcome.
What are different types of drug charges?
In general, drug charges vary depending on the quantity and type of illegal drug. Some of the most common drug charges in Michigan we deal with at our law firm include:
Learn more about each one of these categories below. You can also find more information in the section devoted to other drug charges on this website. The bottom line is you can't take chances with your drug charge. Contact us right now for sound legal advice.
Drug possession
Possession of illegal drugs is a crime in Michigan. Possession can include drugs in your pockets, your vehicle, your house or other property owned by you. You could even be charged with possession if the drugs are not yours but are found on your premises.
Some people believe that it is legal to possess marijuana in certain parts of Michigan. But even in communities like Ann Arbor, it is still against the law to possess the drug. Statewide, drug possession laws vary based mainly on two categories. These include:
- Type of drug - The state of Michigan classifies drugs in specific schedules (1 through 5). The penalty for a conviction of possession will depend on which classification the drug falls under.
- Quantity of drug - The more you have of an illegal drug, the more severe the penalty. For example, if you possess 1,000 grams or more of certain illegal drugs you may be found guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for life and a fine of up to $1 million. If you possess between 25 and 50 grams and are found guilty, you may be sentenced to up to 4 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
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Drug distribution
Michigan has very tough laws banning the sale and distribution of illegal drugs. Like drug possession, drug distribution laws statewide vary based on the quantity and type of drug someone is accused to selling in Michigan.
Many people facing drug distribution charges were arrested by police officers who allegedly observed drugs being sold. An undercover police officer might also arrest someone for drug distribution for attempting to sell drugs to the officer.
Whatever the circumstances of your arrest, don't simply plead guilty to your drug charge. Even if you don't think you have any legal options, it's important to know your rights and explore every possible legal avenue. Seek the advice of legal counsel immediately.
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Drug trafficking
Drug trafficking charges typically are issued against people who law enforcement believes are major offenders. While trafficking and distribution might sound similar, the main difference is someone arrested for trafficking (including transporting or distributing) illegal drugs has a much larger quantity of the substance. Someone charged with trafficking also will face harsher fines and a more significant prison sentence.
The amounts of particular drugs someone must have in their possession to be charged with drug trafficking varies. Under federal law, drug trafficking is a felony. Someone can be charged with trafficking under federal law if he or she possesses more than:
- 50 grams of marijuana
- 28 grams of cocaine
- 100 grams of heroin
- 5 grams of pure methamphetamine
- 50 grams of methamphetamine mixture
- 10 grams of pure PCP
- 100 grams of PCP mixture
