While many states have taken measures in recent years to decriminalize and even legalize the possession and personal use of certain controlled substances, North Carolina still actively enforces fairly harsh drug laws. Even a single conviction for this type of offense can have lasting repercussions for your career and personal prospects, to say nothing of the prison time and other life-altering consequences a felony drug offense can have.
When you need help dealing with drug-related criminal charges, speaking with an Elizabeth City drug lawyer is your top priority. A skilled defense attorney’s guidance can make a difference in how efficiently you can build a strong defense and how effectively you can present that defense in pursuit of a favorable final case result.
How State Law Categorizes Controlled Substances
North Carolina follows the lead of the federal government in terms of how it sorts various controlled substances into different schedules based on how much danger of addiction or misuse they pose and whether they have any formally recognized medicinal uses. Like federal law, state law treats offenses involving Schedule I drugs like heroin or LSD more harshly than those involving Schedule II drugs like cocaine or meth, down to Schedule V substances like cough syrup with codeine as an active ingredient.
Notably, North Carolina also has a Schedule VI, which covers drugs thought to have a low chance of abuse, most notably marijuana. A knowledgeable attorney in Elizabeth City can discuss the drug schedules present in a case.
Possession Versus Intent to Distribute Drugs
Generally, someone charged with simple possession of a controlled substance will face the consequences upon conviction of a misdemeanor offense, with a few notable exceptions. The law almost always considers simple possession of any Schedule I substances a Class I felony, except for possession of less than one gram of “bath salts,” which is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Possessing small amounts of substances in Schedules II through IV is also a Class 1 misdemeanor, possession of small amounts of any Schedule V substance is a Class 2 misdemeanor, and possession of small amounts of a Schedule VI substance is a Class 3 misdemeanor. However, someone who possesses large amounts of any substance in Schedules II through IV may face Class I felony charges. Possessing large amounts of marijuana and certain derivative products may be a Class 1 misdemeanor or a Class I felony, depending on the specific amount.
Manufacturing, delivering, or possessing with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver is a Class I felony for substances in Schedules III through VI with exceptions made for transfers of less than five grams of marijuana. The actual sale of any such substance is a Class H felony. The same offenses committed with Schedule I and II substances are respectively Class H and Class G felonies, although manufacturing methamphetamine in particular is a Class C felony. A lawyer in Elizabeth City can explain the implications of a particular drug charge in more detail and offer vital assistance with contesting different levels of offenses.
Contact an Elizabeth City Drug Attorney for Help
The State of North Carolina takes drug possession, distribution, and manufacture seriously, prosecuting many such offenses as felonies punishable by time in state prison. When you are facing any kind of criminal allegation involving illegal drugs, representation from seasoned legal counsel can be the difference between a positive resolution to your case and life-altering sanctions.
An Elizabeth City drug lawyer can discuss possible defense strategies and options with you during an initial private consultation. Schedule yours by calling today.
