Dedicated Arizona Drug Crimes Defense Attorneys
Drug crimes are heavily prosecuted in Arizona. Although many drug crimes do not involve violence, the conviction of these crimes still carries potentially harsh consequences in the form of jail time, and a tarnished record. A felony conviction leads to the loss of constitutional rights, such as the loss of the right to own a firearm and the right to vote.
If you face drug charges in Arizona, you should consider acting quickly to speak with an attorney. The Arizona criminal defense attorneys of Chuck Franklin Law have been serving clients throughout the state since 1987. To schedule a free consultation to speak with a criminal defense attorney, contact us today by calling (480) 545-0700.
Arizona Drug Crimes and Penalties
Because of the serious consequences associated with drug charges in Arizona, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is important to consider. Some of the more common drug crimes are discussed below.
Drug Possession
Arizona is a medical marijuana state, and many medical marijuana states have a favorable view of recreational marijuana, whether recreational marijuana is legal in that state or not. In Arizona, marijuana drug laws are harsh when marijuana is used or sold for recreational purposes.
Marijuana Possession
Per Arizona Statute Section 13-3405(A)(1), the possession or use of marijuana for recreational purposes is a felony. The amount of marijuana at issue determines the severity of the felony. Possession of fewer than two pounds of marijuana is a class 6 felony, possession of more than two pounds, but fewer than four pounds is a class 5 felony, and possession of four pounds or more is a class 6 felony. Jail time for these offenses ranges from a few months to nearly four years.
Possession of Narcotics
Under Arizona Statute Section 13-3408(A)(1), it is unlawful to possess or use narcotics. A person charged with narcotics possession faces a class 4 felony, which carries a potential jail sentence of up to 3.75 years.
Drug Possession for Sale
Per Arizona Statute Section 13-3405(A)(2), it is unlawful to possess marijuana for sale. The sale of marijuana involving less than two pounds is a class 4 felony. The sale of marijuana involving two pounds or more, but less than four pounds, is a class 3 felony. The sale of marijuana involving more than four pounds is a class 2 felony. Potential jail sentences for these drug offenses range from 1 year to 12.5 years.
Under Arizona Statute Section 13-3408(A)(2), it is unlawful to possess narcotics for sale, a class 2 felony, carrying a maximum jail sentence of 12.5 years.
Drug Manufacturing
Under Arizona Statute Section 13-3405(A)(3), it is illegal to produce marijuana. The production of fewer than two pounds of marijuana is a class 5 felony. The production of two or more pounds, but less than four pounds of marijuana, is a class 4 felony. The production of more than four pounds of marijuana is a class 3 felony. Potential jail sentences for these drug offenses range from 6 months to 8.75 years.
According to Arizona Statute Section 13-3408(A)(4), it is illegal to manufacture narcotic drugs, a class 2 felony in Arizona. Conviction of a class 2 felony results in a maximum jail sentence of 12.5 years.
Penalties associated with the conviction of drug crimes may be enhanced for repeat offenders. Additionally, you may face drug crimes that are not identified above (such as drug trafficking and drug distribution). Therefore, working with a lawyer is a good way to understand better what laws apply in your situation.
Contact Chuck Franklin Law for Your Free Consultation
If you have been charged with any drug offense in Arizona, your constitutional rights are at risk. To find out how an Arizona criminal defense attorney may assist you, consider reaching out to Chuck Franklin Law today. Our legal team has been serving clients for more than 35 years. Receive your free consultation today by calling (480) 545-0700.