Drug Crimes In North Carolina

It is always challenging to face accusations of a crime, but being charged with a drug offense in North Carolina can be particularly stressful and intimidating. The state takes drug possession and trafficking very seriously. Depending on the type and amount of the drug, your alleged actions, and your criminal record, you could face a high-level felony that is punishable by significant fines and years in prison. That is why it is important to retain the help of an experienced North Carolina drug lawyer immediately. When facing drug charges in North Carolina, you need the help of an experienced and skilled criminal lawyer.

Marijuana Possession: Marijuana is almost entirely illegal in North Carolina. Recreational use is prohibited, and there is only one narrow medical cannabis use. Per NCGS Sec. 90-94.1, patients with intractable epilepsy may be able to use plants with a certain amount of CBD oil. Unless you have a medicinal use for CBD oil, you cannot have any marijuana plant or product in your presence or under your control.

If you are charged with possession of marijuana, the level of the offense depends on the amount of the drug allegedly in your possession. Being found with a very small amount of marijuana carries with it a relatively light charge and punishment. However, if you had a significant amount, you may face a felony.

Controlled Substance Possession: If you are caught in possession of a controlled substance, you may face a misdemeanor or felony charge depending on the type and amount of drug you were caught with, and whether you have a previous criminal conviction. For offenses with relatively small amounts of the drug, you will usually be charged with:

• Schedule I possession- class I felony
• Schedule II possession (of drugs such as codeine and ritalin)- class 1 misdemeanor
• Schedule II possession (of drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, and phencyclidine)- class I felony
• Schedule III possession- class I felony
• Schedule IV possession- class I felony
• Schedule V possession- class 2 misdemeanor
• Schedule VI possession- class 2 misdemeanor
• Regardless of the specific accusations against you, you need an experienced drug lawyer by your side. You have the right to aggressively fight for your exoneration at trial.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

In North Carolina, it is illegal for you to knowingly use, or possess with the intent to use any drug paraphernalia. This includes objects or products that can be used to plant, grow, harvest, manufacture, convert, product, package or repackage, store, or conceal a controlled substance other than marijuana. This is a class 1 misdemeanor.