Drug Crimes
The state of Arizona and federal government take drug crimes seriously. Crimes related to illicit drugs and their transportation are especially prevalent in border states like Arizona. Depending on the facts of your case and criminal history, a drug crime conviction can lead to long-term incarceration, serious fines and probation.
In Arizona, drugs, often referred to as Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS), are broken into categories and actions which often affect how a crime will be charged, prosecuted and punished.
Drug Categories
- Dangerous Drugs: Drugs such as LSD, ecstasy, meth, steroids, lorazepam, psilocybin mushrooms and other hallucinogenic substance are considered dangerous drugs in Arizona.
- Narcotics: Cocaine, heroin, opium, morphine and oxycodone fall under the narcotics category.
- Marijuana: While Arizona is a medical marijuana state, there are still punishments for non-medical marijuana card holders and for card holders abuse their rights and privileges.
Illicit Drug-Related Acts
Drug acts are charged based on the circumstances of your charge and the amount of the substance found in your possession at the time.
- Possession
- Selling
- Distribution
- Trafficking
- Manufacturing
- Growing
Drug Crime Sentencing
Most people who are arrested and charged with drug-related crimes face multiple counts based on evidence collected at the time of the arrest. This opens the defendant to a wide range of punishments during the sentencing stage of their case. Sentences in drug-related cases largely depend on the following:
- Type of Drugs Involved
- Quantity of Drugs
- Previous Criminal Record
- Any Aggravating Circumstances
Arizona law can be extremely strict when it comes to drug crimes, which means you could earn harsh penalties and large fines. Drug offenses can be either a Class 1-3 Misdemeanor or Class 1-5 Felony. Felony charges almost always require mandatory jail time in addition to any fines and fees.
However, there may be hope for a reduced sentence when it is the first offense. Arizona has a deferred prosecution program for first-time drug offenders. This program allows the offender to complete a term of probation that includes drug and alcohol education and treatment that when finished the charges can be dropped.
The Kyle T. Green Approach to Drug Crime Defense
I turn to my experience as a former Arizona prosecutor to build strong defense strategies for my clients. I work tirelessly to see your goals are met and have built my firm and reputation as a strong, aggressive defense attorney. There are several possible defense strategies for Arizona drug crimes, such as unlawful search and seizure, and we will discuss all possible strategies as they relate to your case.
If you have been charged with a crime involving drugs, it is important to seek the assistance of a knowledgeable drug crimes attorney. Whether your case involves marijuana, methamphetamine, narcotics, cocaine or prescription drugs, I can help. Please call 480-331-7568 or fill out the contact form to begin your free consultation.
