Drug Crimes

In Louisiana, there is a wide range of drug-related offenses, ranging from possession of drug paraphernalia to distribution of a drug.  These drug crimes range from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

Simple possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor drug crime, which is a lesser offense than a felony.  This drug charge typically means you have been accused of possessing a small amount of marijuana intended for personal use.  However, simple possession of marijuana is an enhanceable offense.  That means, if you are arrested for possession of marijuana in the future, you may face stiffer penalties and even a felony drug charge.

While simple possession of marijuana is typically a misdemeanor, possession of other schedule I drugs or schedule II, III, IV, or V drugs is a felony drug crime.

You can find the schedules of drugs listed in Louisiana Revised Statute 40:964.

If the amount of drugs possessed is a large enough quantity, then you may be charged with possession of a drug with intent to distribute, which is a felony drug crime.  There are also charges of distribution of a drug, meaning you have been accused of selling or giving away drugs.  The distribution of a drug is also a felony drug crime.

In Louisiana, you do not have to receive money in exchange for the drug to be charged with distribution.  For example, this means that you may also be arrested for the distribution of a drug if you are sharing drugs with friends at a party.

For both possession of a drug with intent to distribute and distribution of a drug, penalties vary depending on the type and amount of the drug involved.  The amount of jail time you could possibly face for either of these drug charges can be significant.

Another serious drug offense is possession of a controlled dangerous substance while in possession of a firearm.  Basically, this means that, if you have marijuana or any other illegal drug while you in are possession of a firearm, then you may face additional charges. Possession of a controlled drug substance while in possession of a firearm carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison.

There are several possible constitutional issues when dealing with drug charge cases.  Those issues typically arise during traffic stops or during search and seizure related to an arrest.

If you have been arrested for a drug offense, then you may be facing significant penalties.  A criminal defense lawyer that is experienced in drug crimes can help you navigate this tough situation and ensure that your constitutional rights have not been violated.

Call The Berg Law Firm today for your free consultation: 318-946-8962.

If you are in the Bossier City/Shreveport area, The Berg Law Firm is able to offer its services to you, in the event that you are in need of legal representation.