Penalties for Controlled or Prescription Drug Charges

In Michigan, possessing a controlled substance or an illegal prescription drug is a crime. Penalties for those convicted differ depending on the type of drug involved and the amount of the substance or drug you have.

Controlled substances are regulated by the government, such as prescription narcotic painkillers, morphine, heroin, peyote, methadone, marijuana, and other addictive substances. Even medications containing codeine, such as Tylenol III, are considered controlled substances, although not as severely penalized as others. These drugs are categorized under specific schedules in Michigan, with Schedule I and Schedule II being the most deadly and addictive or abused. If you’re charged with possessing a controlled or prescription drug and convicted, you might face life-changing punishments.

Possessing Controlled or Prescription Medications Could Lead to More Weighty Charges

In their pursuit of drug offenders, law enforcement and prosecutors often try to find ways to charge people in possession of controlled substances or prescription drugs with intent to deliver, manufacture, or distribute. This means even more severe penalties, and innocent individuals are often wrongfully convicted. 

Michigan Punishments for Possession of Controlled or Prescription Drugs

If convicted for possession of a controlled or prescription drug, your penalties vary depending on the amount and kind of drug implicated. Schedule I or Schedule II drugs generally subject the person convicted to a more harsh penalty. Even those considered not as addictive and dangerous may leave you facing large fines and jail time, along with a criminal record which could hurt your career or employment chances.

If you’re convicted of possession of Schedule I or Schedule II controlled or prescription drugs, the punishments you encounter could include:

• Less than 25 grams: Up to four years in prison or fines of as much as $25,000
• 25 to 49 grams: Up to four years in prison or fines of as much as $25,000
• 50 to 449 grams: Up to 20 years in prison or fines of as much as $250,000
• 450 to 999 grams: Up to 30 years in prison or fines of up to $500,000
• 1,000 or more grams: Possible life imprisonment or fines of up to $1,000,000

Possession of any controlled or prescription medication other than marijuana is a felony offense. Possessing marijuana is a misdemeanor and punishable by jail time of up to one year and fines of up to $2,000.

Hire a Prescription Drug Possession Attorney Ready to Defend You

I understand the fear that those arrested for or charged with drug crimes face and the stress of not knowing what to expect. I am compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable, bringing years of experience. I am ready to answer your questions, explain the legal process, and provide you with the strongest, most effective defense possible. 

Contact me today to get a free evaluation of your case. I know the importance of seeking legal support and guidance early to develop an effective legal strategy right away. My team is ready to defend your rights and protect your freedom. Contact me now for legal representation.