Controlled substances are regulated by the federal government. The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act explicitly lists the various drugs that are illegal to possess without a legitimate and valid reason. The substances are listed in schedules based on both their potential for abuse and acceptable medical use. Schedule I drugs have the highest potential for abuse, and they currently have no medical use. These types of substances include heroin, peyote, LSD, and ecstasy. Schedule V drugs have the least potential for abuse, and they are commonly used in modern-day medicine. These types of substances include cough medicines with codeine, Lyrica, and Motofen. Other types of substances that are controlled include Adderall, cocaine, methamphetamine, Vicodin, ketamine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone.
Police departments in Pennsylvania and throughout the nation strongly enforce federal controlled substances laws, so possessing these drugs illegally comes with serious legal consequences.
Pennsylvania Drug Possession Laws and Charges
Possessing a controlled substance without a legitimate medical prescription in Pennsylvania can land you in jail for up to a year. A conviction could additionally mean fines of up to $5,000. If you’ve already been convicted of drug possession once, then a second conviction can substantially increase your fines to $25,000. Jail time for additional possession convictions can increase to three years. Gamma Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) carries extremely severe penalties. Possession of this substance can result in up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
Contact an Experienced Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Souderton Drug Crime Charges
Drug possession charges in Pennsylvania carry harsh sentences, and your conviction can potentially taint your future opportunities. The PA criminal defense attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. have been representing clients charged with drug crimes for over 65 years. As former prosecutors, our team of criminal defense attorneys can offer unique insight into presenting the best possible defense in your situation. Our law firm is prepared to handle a variety of drug possession charges and fight for your freedom. We represent clients charged with drug offenses in Bucks County and Montgomery County, PA, including Newtown, Telford, Souderton, Holland, North Wales, and Colmar. Our office can be reached at 215-822-7575. You can also contact us online.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
