Exploring Arizona’s Felony Drug Laws: Understanding Drug Trafficking and Possession Charges
In the state of Arizona, drug offenses are taken seriously, and understanding the laws surrounding drug trafficking and possession is crucial. Here is a breakdown of the drug classifications and how possession is defined in a Phoenix court.
Drug Trafficking and Federal Drug Scheduling:
Drug trafficking involves the distribution, transportation, or sale of controlled substances. The quantities specified below are the thresholds that define drug trafficking in Arizona:
- Heroin: 1 gram or more
- Cocaine: 9 grams or more
- PCP: 4 grams or 50 milliliters or more
- Methamphetamine: 9 grams or more
- Amphetamine: 9 grams or more
- Marijuana: 2 pounds or more
Federal drug scheduling categorizes drugs based on their potential for abuse and medical use:
Schedule I Drugs: These drugs have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Examples include heroin, LSD, marijuana, ecstasy, methaqualone, and peyote.
Schedule II Drugs: These drugs have a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe dependence. Examples include Vicodin, cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, Demerol, oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall, and Ritalin.
Schedule III Drugs: These drugs have a moderate to low potential for dependence. Examples include codeine, ketamine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone.
Schedule IV Drugs: These drugs have a low potential for abuse and dependence. Examples include Xanax, Soma, Valium, Ativan, Ambien, and Tramadol.
Schedule V Drugs: These drugs have a lower potential for abuse and consist of limited quantities of certain narcotics. Examples include cough syrup with less than 200 milligrams of codeine (Robitussin AC), Lomotil, Motofen, Lyrica, and Parepectolin.
Criminal Defense Attorney for Drug Crimes / Drug Sales/Drug Trafficking near me in Tempe, Arizona
At TedLaw, our criminal defense attorneys specialize in handling drug crimes, including drug possession, drug sales, and drug trafficking cases in Tempe, Arizona. We understand the vigorous prosecution and severe criminal sentences associated with drug offenses in Arizona, making it crucial to have a strong legal defense on your side.
With Arizona’s proximity to Mexico, the state has become a hotbed for drug trafficking, leading to increased efforts in drug enforcement by the city of Tempe. Individuals found in possession of illegal drugs, engaged in the sale of drugs, or suspected of drug trafficking or manufacturing face arrests and convictions. It’s important to note that even without physical possession of drugs, you can be charged with a Class 6 felony, and drug paraphernalia can also lead to charges.
How do I find the best drug offense lawyer in Tempe, Arizona who specializes in drug crimes such as drug trafficking and drug sales?
If you’re searching for the best drug crime attorney in Tempe, Arizona, specializing in drug sales and drug trafficking cases, it’s common to rely on Google search results. However, not all criminal defense attorneys in Tempe are equal when it comes to handling drug crimes. When facing a drug offense, whether it’s possession, sales, or trafficking, you need an attorney who not only understands the Tempe court system but also has years of experience defending clients in drug offense cases.
Searches such as “best drug defense lawyer in Tempe” or “best lawyer for drug charges in Tempe” may turn up a number of attorneys, but be sure to do your research.
Drug sales charges, also known as possession with the intent to sell, can be brought against you if you are found with narcotics and other indicators of intent to sell, such as scales, individually packaged medications, or large sums of money. Convictions for drug sales carry harsher penalties than possession, often resulting in longer prison sentences and higher fines. A professional, proactive, and experienced criminal defense attorney for drug offenses will work tirelessly to provide you with a strong legal defense, aiming to have charges dismissed or reduced to the lowest possible level.
If you are facing drug trafficking charges, it is essential to find the best drug trafficking attorney in Tempe, Arizona.
Drug trafficking and distribution offenses carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. To be charged with drug trafficking in Tempe, you must be found in possession of an illicit substance exceeding a specified amount. Unfortunately, some individuals facing charges did not have intentions to sell or distribute drugs but were arrested due to possessing quantities exceeding Arizona law’s presumptive amount for personal use. This situation can be devastating, leading to severe penalties and irreparable harm to your reputation. It is crucial to retain the services of an aggressive and experienced drug trafficking criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and fight the charges.
At TedLaw, we are dedicated to providing unwavering commitment and the highest level of dedication to our clients. With over two decades of experience, we have successfully defended numerous individuals accused of drug offenses in Tempe and throughout Arizona. Our firm is available to assist you with an experienced and dedicated drug defense attorney, ready to defend you against drug charges and develop effective strategies to reduce or eliminate your charges. We take pride in our impeccable online reputation, along with our track record of not guilty verdicts and dismissals without prejudice. If you have been charged with a felony narcotics offense in Tempe, Arizona, contact TedLaw Immediately.
Drug Possession and Arizona Law:
To secure a guilty verdict for drug possession, the state prosecutor must prove the following two statements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- The defendant knowingly possessed a narcotic drug. Being present where drugs are found is insufficient for a possession conviction. There must be evidence linking you to the drugs, demonstrating that you were aware of their existence and exercised control over them. The quantity of the drug is not a determining factor in the possession offense.
- The substance was indeed a narcotic drug. The prosecutor needs to establish that the substance recovered is a recognized dangerous drug. This requires testing by a forensic scientist, who must testify that the substance is indeed a dangerous drug.
Understanding these laws is essential when facing drug trafficking or possession charges in Arizona. Consulting with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can provide you with the guidance and legal representation needed to protect your rights and mount a strong defense.
Call Us Today
If you’re facing felony narcotics charges in Tempe, Arizona, don’t hesitate to reach out to TedLaw immediately. Our law firm has earned a reputation as the top drug defense attorney in Tempe, providing exceptional legal representation for drug possession, possession with intent to sell, and drug trafficking cases. With over 20 years of experience, we have successfully defended numerous clients throughout Arizona, and we are ready to stand by your side.
When you choose TedLaw as your drug charges attorney in Tempe, you gain access to a team that is dedicated to your defense. We understand the complexities of drug offenses and have developed effective strategies to fight against the charges you’re facing. Whether you’re dealing with drug charges in Tempe or any other court in Arizona, our experienced attorneys are equipped to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
At TedLaw, we prioritize our clients’ needs and are available to support you at any time, day or night. Our commitment to providing unwavering dedication is reflected in our track record of successful outcomes. We take pride in our impeccable online reputation and our history of securing not guilty verdicts and dismissals without prejudice.