Colorado Drug Crime FAQs

A wide range of drug offenses exist under Colorado law, and it can be difficult for anyone who has been arrested in connection with an alleged drug crime, or who is facing charges for a drug-related offense, to understand some of the nuances. The two most important things to know are that you need to develop a strong defense if you are being accused of a drug crime, and you should have an experienced Denver drug crime defense lawyer on your side to help you build and tailor a defense strategy to the facts of your case. In addition, it is important to understand general elements of Colorado’s drug laws if you or someone you love is facing accusations or charges. The following are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Colorado drug offenses and answers to those questions.

Q: Are Drug Crimes Charged as Misdemeanor or Felony Offenses? 

A: There is no either-or answer to this question because drug offenses can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies based on a wide range of factors. Indeed, depending on the quantity of the substance, the type of substance, the defendant’s previous criminal record, and other factors, drug-related offenses — including possession and trafficking offenses — may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.

Q: What is the Difference Between Possession and Trafficking? 

A: Possession generally means having an unlawful drug or controlled substance on your property or on your person, while trafficking typically refers to having enough of an unlawful drug or controlled substance that the intention to sell is presumed, or the defendant is accused of selling drugs.

Q: What Are the Types of Drug Offenses that Can be Charged? 

A: There are many specific offenses, but in general, charges are typically brought for offenses that involve simple possession, possession with intent to distribute, distribution, and trafficking.

Q: What Kinds of Drugs Are Illegal? 

A: Drugs, or controlled substances, are placed in categories that range from Schedule I to Schedule V. Drugs that are unlawful under any circumstances, such as heroin, are Schedule I substances. Yet other substances that can be lawfully prescribed can be unlawful to possess without a prescription, or to distribute, such as oxycodone or hydrocodone.

Q: What Are the Penalties for a Conviction? 

A: Penalties will depend on the facts of the case, including the type and amount of substance, and the specific offense for which you were convicted. In general, penalties can range from fines and community service for very minor offenses to up to 32 years in prison.

Contact Our Denver Drug Crime Defense Lawyers 

If you are facing any drug-related charges or have been arrested for a drug-related offense, it is essential to begin working with an experienced Denver drug crime defense attorney at DeChant Law on your defense as soon as you can. Drug offenses often come with steep penalties, even misdemeanor convictions, and felony convictions can have significant impacts on lives and livelihoods even after sentences are completed. Contact us today to begin fighting the drug crime accusations against you.

Source:

leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1263