Drug Crime Articles
The Drug Schedules and How They Affect Your Charges
The federal government has created a system of categorizing illegal, over-the-counter, and prescription drugs known as drug schedules. State and federal drug laws are heavily influenced by the schedule that a particular drug falls under.
Defending Against Unlawful Search and Seizure in Drug Cases
Protections against unlawful searches and seizures are essential for a just and orderly society because they safeguard individual liberties and uphold the rule of law. Without these protections, citizens are vulnerable to arbitrary intrusion by authorities, leading to fear, mistrust, and potential abuse of power. By ensuring that searches and seizures are conducted lawfully, society maintains a balance between public safety and individual rights, fostering trust in the justice system and preserving the foundation of a democratic society.
Cocaine Crimes and the Negative Stigma Surrounding Users
Cocaine-related crimes are unfortunately quite common, covering a variety of offenses from possession and distribution to trafficking. Among drug-related crimes, cocaine offenses are particularly notable not only for their frequency but also for the negative stigma attached to those involved.
Common Drug Crime Defense Arguments
Although Colorado has legalized possession of marijuana for personal use and changed certain felony drug offenses to misdemeanors, the conviction of a drug crime can still have serious consequences. The most serious drug felonies carry penalties of up to 32 years in prison and up to $1 million in fines. If you are facing drug crime charges, it is important to get an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner as soon as possible. The following are some common legal defense arguments against Breckenridge drug crime charges.
Why Fentanyl Charges Are Being Taken So Seriously in CO
Fentanyl is a lab-created opioid that medical professionals use to ease pain, often following a surgery. It can be administered in various ways, including as a shot, a patch, or a cough drop alternative. Fentanyl differs from other pain relievers by being extremely powerful and malleable.
Fentanyl is 100 times more powerful than morphine. Properly created Schedule I and II drugs are created with pure elements, making them generally weaker for those with tolerance to them. Fentanyl is the choice drug for those recovering from immense pain or with a significant tolerance to other drugs.
Court-Ordered Hair Sample Drug Tests in Colorado
Drug testing is often a condition of probation or parole. For example, weekly random drug testing may be required. The court may order hair follicle drug testing in cases where it wants to examine long-term drug use. Hair follicle testing can detect drug consumption for up to 90 days and provide a clearer picture of habitual use than urine testing.
Do I Have to Do Field Sobriety Tests in Colorado?
Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST) in Colorado are one of the main tools police officers use to determine whether a person is driving whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, field sobriety tests are not always reliable, and many drivers are unaware of their rights when requested to perform one.
What Punishments Could I Get for a Drug Arrest in CO?
If you have been arrested on drug charges in Colorado, the penalties you are facing will depend on the offense, the amount, the type of drug, and other factors. Charges for drug crimes can range from petty offenses, punishable by a fine, to a Level 1 drug felony, punishable by a mandatory minimum prison sentence of eight to 32 years and a fine of up to $1 million.
Possession of four or fewer grams of most controlled substances is now a Level 1 drug misdemeanor instead of a felony in Colorado. Many defendants facing these charges are able to go on probation to avoid jail time or complete a diversion program to have their cases dismissed.