Drug Possession in Phoenix - two officers handcuffing person in front of car

Consequences for Drug Possession in Phoenix, Arizona

If you are caught with a drug that the State of Arizona or Federal Government has deemed illegal, you are facing a tough battle. Even with nearby states legalizing drugs like marijuana and enacting more common sense drug laws, Arizona still has very strict laws surrounding drug possession. Even though marijuana legalization may be on it’s way in Arizona as well, for the time being you can still be prosecuted for possession of marijuana along with other dangerous drugs or narcotics. The following are some of the consequences you can expect for the various types of charges surrounding drug possession in Phoenix, Arizona.

Marijuana Possession in Arizona

Despite the fact that marijuana offenses are the most common possession arrest in Arizona, and most understand that it shouldn’t be a big deal, it is still a criminal offense. The charges for marijuana possession in Arizona vary depending how much of the substance you are found with–from 1 year and a Class 6 felony to 5 years and a Class 2 felony and a minimum of a $750 fine.

Possession of Dangerous Drugs in Arizona

Some examples of what the state deems dangerous drugs include following substances: ecstasy, meth, psilocybin mushrooms, mescaline, LSD, lorazepam, steroids and clonazepam. Possession of which is a class 1 misdemeanor and is punishable by fines up to $2,500 and up to 6 months of jail time.

Possession of Narcotics in Arizona

Narcotics include heroin, morphine, opium, cocaine, oxycodone, and other opiates and controlled substances. Possession of which is considered a Class 5 felony which is punishable by up to a year and a half in prison.

Deferred Prosecution for First Time Offenders

Arizona offers deferred prosecution for first time drug offenders. This means you can defer your prosecution while completing a term of probation to attend drug and alcohol education and treatment. If you complete the probation the charges may be dropped.

Are you being charged with drug possession in Phoenix, Arizona? Contact Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Todd Coolidge, today.

*The information in this blog is for general information purposes only. This blog post should not be taken to constitute a formal recommendation or professional advice. We exclude all representations, warranties, legal liability or responsibility relating to its content.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/28/2016) Chris Yarzab  (Flickr)