Although Colorado legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2012, the possession, manufacture, and distribution of controlled substances are still against the law. In addition, the state’s drug laws were modified in 2013 so that the penalties for some drug possession offenses often involve treatment rather than imprisonment. Nonetheless, more serious drug crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, and convictions can lead to jail or prison sentences and significant fines.
At The Blair Law Office, we provide bold and aggressive legal representation to individuals facing a wide range of drug charges including:
- Drug Possession
- Drug Manufacturing or cultivation
- Drug Distribution or trafficking
- Drug Possession with the intent to sell
Drug Crimes in Adams, Jefferson, and Arapahoe County Colorado
The law classifies controlled substances in 5 schedules, based on the drug’s potential for being abused:
- Schedule 1: drugs that are likely to lead to dependency and have no recognized medicinal use, including heroin, LSD, PCP, mushrooms, mescaline and peyote
- Schedule 2: drugs that are likely to be abused, but may have some accepted medical use, such as cocaine, opium, and prescription opioids such as Oxycotin, Vicodin and methadone
- Schedule 3: drugs with a moderate risk of abuse and some accepted medical purpose, including barbiturates, ketamine, anabolic steroids, and medicine containing small amounts of codeine
- Schedule 4: substances widely used for medicinal purposes such as prescription anti-anxiety drugs like valium and sedatives such as Ambien
- Schedule 5: drugs with little potential for addiction, particularly over-the-counter medicines, cough syrups and cold medications with small amounts of narcotics like codeine
Drug Penalties for Denver Residents
The penalties for drug crimes involving Schedule 1-5 drugs depend on the classification, the quantity, whether the drugs were intended for personal use or distribution, whether the person is a habitual drug offender, has prior drug convictions or other felony offenses, as well as other factors. While lesser felony convictions may lead to a 6-month prison sentence and a fine of $1,000 or both, more serious felony charges can result in significant fines and longer periods of incarceration.
Colorado’s Marijuana Laws
While the possession of small quantities of marijuana by those 21 years old and over is permitted, possessing more than 28 grams (one ounce) of marijuana, or any amount by individuals under 21 (other than medical marijuana) is illegal. Depending on the circumstances, possessing more than the legal limit may be charged as a non-criminal petty offense, a misdemeanor or felony. It is also illegal for anyone to sell marijuana without being authorized by the state.
Lastly, the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is also permitted for the treatment of qualifying debilitating medical conditions provided that it has been prescribed by a licensed medical professional. A doctor who prescribes medical marijuana without a license can be charged with a crime.
Bold & Aggressive Drug Crime Defense Attorney
While the state has relaxed some of its drug possession laws in an effort to reduce the prison population, a serious drug crime conviction can still have long lasting consequences. The Blair Law Office has extensive experience handling all types of drug crimes and will fight to protect your rights and preserve your freedom. If you are facing drug charges in Denver, Colorado or Adams County, Arapahoe County, or Jefferson County, contact a drug crime lawyer today.