Drug Charges
Drug laws in Colorado are some of the most confusing and intricate in the country. As a result; many people are wrongfully arrested, overcharged, or harshly punished when what they really need is intervention. Drug crimes also carry a significant stigma that can affect a person’s ability to secure employment they would otherwise be qualified for. Do not get railroaded by the system, let Andrew Brown and Pav Law fight for your rights and get you the best possible outcome for your case.
What to expect if you’re charged with a drug-related crime in Colorado.
Drug-related crimes typically fall into one of three categories:
- Drug use (CRS 18-18-404) / Possession (CRS 18-180403.5)
- Manufacturing (CRS 18-18-422) / Distribution (CRS 18-18-405)
- Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) (CRS 42-4-1301)
In most cases, possession and drug usage are charged as misdemeanors, (however, if you are found to be in possession of more than 4 grams of a schedule I or II drug, or any amount of Ketamine, GHB, or flunitrazepam, you can be charged with a felony.) Often, we can convince the court to allow the offender to seek treatment rather than serve jail time. Not only is this a better outcome for the accused because they are given the opportunity to get their life back on track, but saves community resources by reducing the number of people incarcerated for low-level, non-violent crimes.
If you are accused of sales, distribution, or manufacturing of drugs, you are likely facing a felony charge. The penalties for drug felony offenses in Colorado can be harsh, and often include both jail time and a hefty fine. The severity of the punishment depends on several factors, such as:
- The type of drug (Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V)
- The amount of the drugs involved
- If the drugs were for personal use, sales, or large-scale distribution
- If this is your first drug-related charge
- If you are already on probation, parole, or incarcerated
Driving under the influence of drugs, or DUID, is defined as driving after consuming one or more drugs, or a combination of drugs and alcohol, and the drugs and/or alcohol impair your ability to safely operate your vehicle. DUID charges are treated similarly to DUI charges, in fact, it falls under the same statute as DUI. Unfortunately, honest mistakes can often lead to DUID charges, especially when legally prescribed, or over-the-counter, drugs are involved. In some cases, even a misattribution of behavior can lead to a DUID charge. For example, an officer pulls you over for swerving out of your lane, you may have swerved due to ordinary carelessness; however, if you mention to the officer that you had recently taken a prescription medication that could cause impairment, the officer may assume that the drug caused your driving error, resulting in a much more serious charge.
As you can see, drug laws in Colorado are complex and confusing, at best. That is why it is imperative that you seek counsel immediately if you are charged with any sort of drug-related crime.
Accused of a drug-related crime in Colorado Springs? Pav Law can help.
Being charged with a drug-related offense is scary and confusing, especially if the charges are false or unfairly exaggerated, but we can help you make the best of a bad situation. Pav Law is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for its clients. Trust us to put in the time and effort your case deserves. We know the law, we’re hungry for the truth, and ready to fight for your freedom. We’ll walk you through the process so that you know what you can expect. We can also promise that you will be treated with empathy and respect during this difficult time.
If you are in Colorado and are being charged with a drug-related crime, call our offices today! The longer you wait to secure representation, the less time your attorney has to build your case. Do not let the system dictate your future. Call us at (719)888-7888 or schedule your free consultation today, and get your life back on track.