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Drug crime charges vary depending on jurisdiction and specific state laws, as well as how drugs are classified. Penalties for drug crimes can include fines, probation, or imprisonment. Common drug crimes include:
Laws and definitions of both crimes can vary by jurisdiction. Consulting with an experienced drug crime attorney can help you understand the laws in your area. While both drug distribution and drug trafficking involve illegal drugs, the differences are in scope and scale.
Drug Distribution focuses on local level selling and transfer of illegal drugs, typically within a community, and involve smaller amounts. There is less planning and organization to distribute and carried out by individuals or small groups.
Drug Trafficking focuses on large-scale movements with complex networks, financing, and logistics. Often, drug trafficking comes with a minimum quantity threshold for specific drugs. Due to the potential for greater harm, penalties are much harsher.
Illegal drugs are classified on several factors. These include the potential for abuse, accepted medical uses, and safety considerations. Classification is outlined in a drug schedule, established by national or regional drug control authorities.
Schedule I – Higher potential for abuse, with no accepted medical use in some jurisdictions
Schedule II - Higher potential for abuse, may have accepted medical use with severe restrictions
Schedule III - Lower potential for abuse, have accepted medical uses and may lead to moderate dependence
Schedule IV - Lower potential for abuse, have accepted medical uses and may lead to limited dependence
Schedule V – Lowest potential for abuse, have accepted medical uses and may lead to limited dependence
Expungement is the legal process of removing or sealing of criminal records, making them unavailable to the public. The ability to expunge a drug conviction from your record depends on state laws where the conviction occurred. These laws can vary widely, across jurisdictions. Common factors that can influence expungement of a drug conviction include:
Consider the following:
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