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Common Drug Crimes and Their Legal Penalties in Philadelphia

Common Drug Crimes and Their Legal Penalties in Philadelphia

Drug-related offenses are some of the most common criminal charges in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania. These can range from minor possession of a substance to serious crimes like drug trafficking or manufacturing. If you or someone you know is facing a drug charge, it’s essential to understand the law and what’s at stake. Let’s break down the most common drug crimes and their penalties in plain terms.

Drug Possession

What It Means: Drug possession simply means having illegal drugs without a valid prescription or legal reason. Common substances include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, and prescription medications like oxycodone or Xanax.

What Happens If You’re Caught: The penalties depend on the type of drug and how much you have:

Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID)

What It Means: If you’re found with a large amount of drugs or things like baggies, scales, or lots of cash, the police might assume you’re planning to sell. That’s possession with intent to distribute (PWID).

What Happens If You’re Caught: The penalties for PWID are much harsher than simple possession:

Drug Paraphernalia

What It Means: This involves having items used for making, using, or distributing drugs. Think pipes, syringes, or baggies.

What Happens If You’re Caught: Possessing or selling paraphernalia is a misdemeanor. You could face up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. If you’re caught selling paraphernalia to minors, the penalties are even tougher.

Drug Manufacturing and Trafficking

What It Means: Manufacturing means producing illegal drugs, while trafficking involves transporting large amounts of drugs. These are among the most serious drug-related offenses.

What Happens If You’re Caught:

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID)

What It Means: Driving while impaired by drugs is treated similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol. Pennsylvania has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs in your system while driving.

What Happens If You’re Caught:

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Drug Categories

Pennsylvania sorts drugs into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and whether they have medical uses:

How a Lawyer Can Help

Facing drug charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. An experienced lawyer can help by:

Why You Need Legal Help

Drug charges can seriously impact your future – from a criminal record to difficulty finding a job or housing. That’s why it’s critical to have a skilled attorney on your side. At Brennan Law Offices, we know Pennsylvania’s drug laws inside and out and will fight to protect your rights.

Contact us for a consultation if you’re facing drug charges in Philadelphia. Together, we can determine the best path to safeguard your future.

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