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Drug classifications and how they affect criminal cases

On Behalf of | Jul 16, 2024 | Drug Crimes

Under the Controlled Substance Act, drugs are given classifications called schedules. Each schedule defines whether a drug can be used in medical fields, how available it is to the general public and if the substance leads to addiction and abuse. 

Higher-scheduled drugs can carry harsher penalties in a drug possession case. In some cases, the possession of a small quantity of a high-schedule drug can lead to severe jail time and fines. Large quantities of low-scheduled substances may be linked to drug trafficking. 

Here is how each of the five drug schedules works:

Schedule III, IV and V drugs

Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential to cause abuse, such as cough drops and sinus medicines. These drugs are commonly found in convenience and drug stores. They can be bought by anyone of legal age without the need for prescriptions. 

Schedule III and IV drugs have a low potential for addiction but are much higher than Schedule V drugs. Most of these drugs, such as Valium, Xanax, steroids and testosterone, can be purchased with prescriptions. If someone is caught with a prescription drug illegally, they could face serious charges. 

Schedule I and II drugs

Schedule I and II drugs have the highest potential for addiction and abuse. These drugs, such as LSD, cocaine, peyote and PCP are not legally obtainable. Very few Schedule I and II drugs are used in medical fields, such as morphine. Possession of these high-scheduled drugs can lead to high criminal charges. 

Defendants can learn about their legal defense options when facing drug possession charges. With a strong legal defense, charges could be mitigated or dropped. Legal help is available for people suspected of drug possession. 

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