Protecting Your Rights And Your Future

What happens when you’re caught with cocaine?

| Nov 6, 2018 | Drug Charges

Cocaine is a Schedule I drug, which means that it has no recognized medical use in the United States and is banned from being possessed unless a person has been given an exception for scientific use (as an example).

Both cocaine and methamphetamine are so dangerous that they fit into their own categories for charges and sentencing. That means that a charge for possession could end up penalizing you in ways you never expected.

What happens if you’re caught with cocaine?

If you’re caught with cocaine but have less than 2 grams, then you will be charged with a Class D felony. For up to 10 grams, you could face a Class C felony. If you possess more than this, then you fall into either a Class A or B felony. A Class A felony is the most serious, and it can lead to six to 30 years in prison. Class B felonies have prison sentences ranging between five and 20 years in prison.

Are there possible alternatives to prison for someone convicted of cocaine possession?

Yes, the good news is that Arkansas does have drug courts. These drug abatement programs allow for nonviolent offenders to seek help through a drug rehabilitation program. They may also submit to regular drug tests but be able to avoid prison as a result. However, to do this, you’ll generally have to plead guilty and serve probation, which may be something that you want to talk over with your attorney. Your attorney can help you understand if a plea deal is the right choice for your situation.

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