Minnesota courts operate under recently updated drug laws. Penalties for violating the laws include stiff prison sentences and fines. That’s why it is a good idea to hire a lawyer with knowledge of drug crime in New Ulm, MN. Lawyers defend each client zealously and insure their rights are protected.
Drug Crime Categories
The accused can be charged in one of five categories, which range from first-degree controlled substances crime to less serious fifth-degree crimes. A person can be charged for possession, use, sale and trafficking. Controlled substances include cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, amphetamines, hallucinogens, marijuana, and prescription drugs. A person is charged according to what drug they have and the quantity.
Degrees of Charges
Each category of charges has minimum amounts to face sale or possession charges. For instance, selling 10 grams of heroin is a first-degree felony. It’s also a first-degree felony to possess 50 grams of cocaine. In addition, it’s a first-degree crime to manufacture controlled substances. The maximum penalty is 30 years in prison and a million dollar fine. It’s important to remember that drugs don’t have to be in your pocket to be charged with possession. Rather, one can be charged if they control the drugs.
Second and third-degree charges are felonies as well. These charges simply involve lower minimum amounts of controlled substances. For example, the minimum amount to face heroin sale charges is three grams. The minimum amount for cocaine possession is 25 grams. The maximum penalty is 25 years in prison and a half-million dollars fine. Those accused of third-degree crimes face a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Fourth-degree charges are a felony but only apply to possession of hallucinogens. Fifth-degree charges are less serious and involve small amounts of marijuana or prescription drugs.
Defending Charges
Lawyers defend drug crime in New Ulm, MN in a variety of ways. For instance, the lawyer can attack the chain of custody of drugs. Likewise, police conduct is checked for due process and other constitutional violations. In addition, the lawyer may negotiate a plea bargain that benefits the client. To learn more, visit Blatzlawminnesota.com.
