Party drugs like MDMA, commonly known as E or Ecstasy, and other recreational drugs like PCP (Angel Dust), and methamphetamine (Crystal Meth, Chalk, Ice or Meth) may be in common use, but when you are charged with possession of these illegal substances, the consequences and penalties can seriously disrupt your life.
A conviction of even a small amount of a Schedule I or II drugs can send you to prison for up to one year. You could lose also your license for six months and face a fine of $5,000, plus have a misdemeanor on your permanent criminal record.
A subsequent offense could mean two or three years behind bars. A charge of Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) Drugs comes with much harsher penalties upon conviction.
A criminal drug record can be life-altering and affect everything in your future … jobs/potential employers, loans for cars and houses and schooling, eligibility for housing, college admissions, child custody, etc.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with possession of any illegal recreational drugs, like Meth or PHP, you should call an attorney today for a free case evaluation. A tough, skilled and aggressive criminal attorney on your side could make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
Remember: Drug charges do not mean you are guilty or will be convicted. Drug charges can be fought and won in court.
Penalties: Meth, Php & Ecstasy
Depending on several different factors, you could either be charged with simple possession of drugs (usually a misdemeanor) or possession with intent to deliver (PWID) drugs (a felony). The penalties for each vary greatly, depending on the quantity of the drug and prior offenses.
Simple Possession of Drugs – Meth, MDMA, and PHP
The punishments a judge may sentence you are highly dependent on the type and the amount of the drug. Whether it is a first offense or consecutive offense will also determine the amount of sentencing.
Even a conviction of a small amount of a Schedule I or II drugs intended for personal use can mean up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine, not to mention losing your license, having a criminal record and having to pay other fines, fees, etc. The penalty for a second or third conviction is two or three years in prison.
Other penalties like losing your license, being ineligible to purchase or own a weapon or loss of child custody could also apply.
Speak to a Pittsburgh Drug Lawyer for more information on the types of penalties you face and how best to defend your rights.
Possession With Intention to Distribute (PWID) Party Drugs
The punishment for Possession with Intent to Deliver or Distribute (PWID) in Pennsylvania is very harsh. PWID means you were suspected of intending to distribute the drugs (manufacture, store, sell, traffic, transport).
Penalties depend on the quantity of the drug, whether it is a first offense or second/third offense. You face much harsher penalties if you are charged with distributing the drug inside a school zone or to a minor, or while in possession of a weapon.
Being convicted of PWID Illegal Substances is a felony that will remain on your criminal record.
PWID Drug Conviction Penalties in Pennsylvania:
- 2-10 grams: Two years in prison, a $5,000 fine for a first offense; three years in prison and a $10,000 fine for subsequent offenses.
- 10-100 grams: Three years in prison and a $15,000 fine for a first offense; Five years in prison and a $30,000 fine for subsequent offenses.
- 100+ grams: Five years in prison and a $25,000 fine for a first offense; Seven years in prison and a $50,000 fine for subsequent offenses.
The penalties could be more severe if you are found guilty of distributing drugs in a school zone or to a minor, or while carrying a weapon.
You may also face U.S. Federal charges in addition to Pennsylvania charges.
Call an experienced and aggressive Pittsburgh Drug Lawyer today for a free legal consultation.
Fighting Drug Charges in Pittsburgh
Our experienced Pittsburgh drug lawyers try our best to make a positive difference in our clients’ lives by providing solid legal advice and preparing strong and aggressive defense strategies. Our sole aim is to get your drug charges reduced or withdrawn altogether.
It is not uncommon for the Pennsylvania legal system and the Pennsylvania Drug Court to allow first-time drug offenders and repeat offenders to receive treatment instead of going to jail. A skilled and experienced lawyer can help you and your family understand Alternative-to-Jail programs available and whether you are eligible to apply. We can also help negotiate a plea for these programs during a hearing or trial.
We will thoroughly investigate your case, build a strong defense strategy and negotiate with the courts and plead your case in order to increase your chances of having your charges reduced or withdrawn. Contact Pittsburgh drug lawyers at SMT Legal today to discuss your options.