Utah Drug Crimes Attorneys

There are two different types of penalties that may happen after being convicted of drug possession:

• Criminal penalties are the penalties you receive for being convicted of a crime, such as jail time, fines, probation, and community service.

• Collateral consequences are a result of what happens when a conviction goes onto your criminal record.

These might consist of the following:

• Driver’s license suspension or revocation

• Drug treatment or rehabilitation

• Drug testing

• Loss of employment

• Loss of student financial aid

• Loss of the right to own a gun

• Loss of reputation in your community

It is illegal to possess controlled dangerous substances (CDS) without a prescription in the state of Utah. Although the penalties for drug possession do vary according to how the drug is classified, penalties include fines and prison time. If you were charged or arrested for drug possession, your choice in legal representation determines everything when it comes to securing a favorable case outcome. With the help of an experienced Utah County drug possession attorney, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the consequences associated with a drug crime conviction.

What Are Considered Drug Crimes in Utah? 

A drug-related crime deals with the possession, manufacturing, and/or distribution of drugs. Drug crimes may include but are not limited to the following:

Understanding Drug Abuse in Utah

Drug abuse includes not only the use of illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy but the abuse of prescription drugs as well. A majority of drug crimes are committed by individuals in the state with addictions, Utah has a group of “drug courts” that offer rehabilitation in lieu of sentencing.

Consequences of Drug Possession

Possession of marijuana, depending on the amount, typically receives a consequence of jail time and a fine. Possession of less than an ounce can get you a Class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail, and a $1,000 fine. Possession of a controlled substance has more severe consequences, especially if law enforcement or a prosecutor believes you intended to distribute the drugs.

Charges for Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute

Utah law makes very little distinction between the crimes of possession with the intent to distribute and drug distribution. Both are typically charged with second-degree felonies, punishable for up to 15 years in jail and a fine of $10,000. The term “distribution” refers to any individual who gives, shares, or hands over drugs to another individual.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges

You will get charged for drug trafficking when larger quantities of drugs are involved. The consequences vary depending on the type of drug and whether this is a repeat offense.

The Seriousness of Drug Manufacturing in Utah

Utah’s sentencing for drug manufacturing can be harsh, especially if an individual was manufacturing drugs next to an academic institution, church, child daycare, park, community facility, or adult assisted living facility.

To be convicted of manufacturing illegal drugs, a prosecutor must prove the elements of both possession and an intent to manufacture.

Illegal drugs include, but are not limited to:

• Cocaine

• LSD

• Heroin

• Methamphetamine

• Club drugs (MDMA, Ketamine)

• Marijuana (over the legal amount)