Drug crimes refer to unlawful manufacturing, possession, distribution, sale, or use of drugs that are not allowed in a country or state. Most of these crimes relate to certain cartels, criminal gangs, or other organized crimes.
According to recent statistics, there has been an increase in crime rates globally, the majority being drug crimes. People commit some of these crimes knowingly, while other people fall into them unknowingly. Fortunately for this situation, some lawyers strictly deal with drug cases and help individuals get out of this when caught.
It’s essential to get a lawyer for drug crimes to represent you in any drug-related lawsuits. The lawyer can request the court to release you on bond, have your case dismissed, or get you a lenient penalty.
Despite different countries having different laws governing drug use, there are common drug crimes which you must avoid at all costs. Here are the top five drug crimes globally.
1. Drug Possession
In some countries and states, you aren’t allowed to possess any drug other than medication drugs. If found with such, you might get charged. Regardless of whether you are the manufacturer, seller, or user, the law enforcers will take you to court and charge you with a drug crime.
Other than the drug itself, you can get charged for possessing its packages, its units of measure, its raw materials, and even paraphernalia. Getting involved with such components might get you heavy penalties or a longer jail term.
2. Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is among the worst crimes you can get charged with. Other than being served with hefty fines, you can get jailed for life if found guilty. In most countries, the drug trafficking penalty depends on the drug quantity you are caught with—the higher the drug amount, the heftier the penalties. Drug trafficking doesn’t necessarily mean selling illegal drugs but also legal drugs by unlawful means.
Having smaller quantities of an allowed drug might be for personal use, permitted by the law. But having any amount of a banned substance might land you in jail.
3. Possession of Drugs with Intent to Distribute
In some states, like Florida, the law prohibits manufacturing, possession, or having drugs with an intention to sell to make profits. This law takes into consideration all drugs, including banned substances. If traveling to such states, you must know the rules governing these drugs, including the permitted substances. With this, one gets charged with a third-degree felony, and you might face up to fifteen years imprisonment.
4. Obtaining Controlled Substances Fraudulently
In some states, very few individuals are authorized to possess some drugs, including high-end doctors and drug stores. Not everyone gets permission to carry, sell, or keep the drugs, unless with explicit permission from the government and other authorized organizations. It becomes illegal to acquire these drugs by forging letters, misrepresenting yourself, or any other fraudulent means. When found, you can get jailed or fined with heavy penalties.
5. Cultivating or Manufacturing Marijuana Products
Some states have continued legalizing marijuana after some studies found that they have medicinal and relaxation benefits to individuals suffering from various disorders. However, not all products or processes are legal, and not all states or countries have uplifted the marijuana ban.
Cultivating, manufacturing, and using marijuana products in areas they aren’t legal leads to a crime. You may suffer fines or get penalized heavily according to the quantity of the product. Before using a marijuana product, it’s better to inquire from your country if the stuff is legal and the rules governing it.
Familiarize Yourself with the Rules
You will pass through several states and countries when going on vacations or business trips, making it essential to familiarize yourself with rules governing drug use in the areas you will visit to avoid fines or imprisonment.
If found on the wrong arm of the law, don’t let you or your friends suffer behind bars. Get a competent drug lawyer who will ensure you get a bond, have lenient charges, or get fewer penalties for the drug crimes committed.
