Arizona has very strict laws dealing with narcotics crimes. This is in part because of the large amounts of narcotics that enter the United States from Central and South America through the southern border, as well as the very high rates of drug abuse these substances cause. Some of the most commonly prosecuted narcotics include:
- Cocaine
- Crack Cocaine
- Heroin
- Opium
- Oxycodone (also known as Percocet)
- Oxycontin
These substances are all highly addictive and very dangerous. They also account for a large percentage of drug overdoses in the United States. For these reasons, you are wise to avoid using or possessing them. However, if you find yourself arrested or charged with any kind of narcotic drug crime in Phoenix, you should immediately seek out a competent, aggressive defense attorney to fight for your rights.
Penalties for Narcotics Crimes in Phoenix
If you are a first time offender, and are possessing narcotics for personal use in Phoenix, you are facing a class 4 felony charge upon arrest (A.R.S. 13-3407).
- A class 4 felony narcotics charge for personal use carries with it a possible prison sentence of up to 3.75 years, and fines that can exceed $150,000 plus surcharges
If you are a first time offender, and are possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute them for sale, you are facing a class 2 felony charge upon arrest (A.R.S. 13-3408).
- A class 2 felony narcotics charge for intent to distribute carries with it a possible prison sentence of up to 12.5 years, and fines that can exceed $150,000 plus surcharges
If you are a first time offender, and are manufacturing narcotics drugs, you are facing a class 2 felony charge upon arrest (A.R.S. 13-3408).
- A class 2 felony narcotics charge for manufacturing carries with it a possible prison sentence of up to 12.5 years, and fines that can exceed $150,000 plus surcharges
If you are a first time offender, and are transporting or trafficking narcotics in Phoenix, you are facing a class 2 felony charge upon arrest (A.R.S. 13-3407).
- A class 2 felony narcotics charge for transporting or trafficking carries with it a possible prison sentence of up to 12.5 years, and fines that can exceed $150,000 plus surcharges
If you have prior convictions for drugs or other crimes, or if aggravating circumstances are present felony info, then you can face an even harsher sentence. Some sentences for selling, manufacturing or trafficking can exceed 20 years in prison for prior offenders. This is why it is essential to immediately consult an experienced defense attorney upon your arrest.
Eligibility for Prop 200 for Narcotics Crimes
Passed in 1996, Prop 200 allows some first and second time minor narcotics offenses to be plea-bargained down to misdemeanors. If you are Prop 200 eligible, you may be able to avoid jail or prison time by:
- Being placed on monitored probation
- Attending a drug diversion program
- Attending drug treatment
- Paying fines
- Performing community service
If you are Prop 200 eligible, you may be able to benefit from rehabilitation versus incarceration. However, this only applies to people who possess narcotics for personal use, and who do not have any aggravated circumstances present. It is important to consult an attorney to see if you might be Prop 200 eligible in your case.
Trust Phoenix Criminal Attorney With Your Narcotics Drug Crime Defense
Phoenix Criminal Attorney provides our clients with focused legal assistance for all narcotics drug crime charges, no matter how severe. We will not stop fighting for your rights by making sure that every possible legal option and defense strategy is available to you. If you have been charged with any narcotics drug crime in Phoenix, contact us today for a private, no obligation consultation at 602-551-8092.
