In Pennsylvania, possession of a controlled substance is a serious offense that can result in harsh penalties like jail time and expensive fines. Depending on the amount of the controlled substance found, you could be facing even more serious offenses like trafficking or manufacturing, or even federal charges.
However, for a conviction to occur, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the substance was indeed a controlled substance, you knew it was illegal and you had actual or constructive possession of it. A skilled Philadelphia drug defense attorney can fight for your rights while exposing cracks in the prosecution's case against you, which may increase your chances at a charge reduction or dismissal.
Possession of a Controlled Substance Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia
If you are facing a possession of a controlled substance charge in Philadelphia, it is important to hire an experienced attorney who has knowledge of all aspects of the Pennsylvania justice system. The LLF Law Firm has years of experience defending those facing criminal charges.
In addition to using their behind-the-scenes knowledge and connections to benefit their clients, the LLF Law Firm Team also diligently pursues the most favorable outcome for its clients. This includes if the most favorable defense is not the easiest. To find out what LLF Law Firm can do for your controlled substance possession case, call (888) 535-3686 today to schedule your consultation.
Possession of a Controlled Substance Information Center
- Controlled Substance Laws and Penalties in Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia Actual and Constructive Drug Possession
- The Schedule of Controlled Substances in Pennsylvania
Controlled Substance Laws and Penalties in Pennsylvania
What is considered a controlled substance and the penalties for possession of such a substance are defined in 35 P.S. §§ 780-101 – 780-144, which is also known as the Pennsylvania Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. Controlled substances are graded according to their abuse potential, how addictive they are, if they can result in mental or physical harm, and whether the substance has a valid medical purpose. A controlled substance can be anything, including street drugs, designer drugs, prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, natural substances, plants, chemicals, and man-made substances.
If an individual is found to be in actual or constructive possession of a controlled substance defined in Pennsylvania's drug schedules, he or she will be charged with possession of a controlled substance. The only way possession of these drugs is considered lawful is if the person in possession was authorized to do so through means like a prescription or a practitioner's license. A conviction of drug possession in Philadelphia can come with up to a year in prison and up to a $5,000 fine for a first offense.
Philadelphia Actual and Constructive Drug Possession
For a possession of a controlled substance charge to occur in Philadelphia, the prosecution must prove the defendant had actual or constructive possession of the drug. Actual possession is when you have the drug or controlled substance on your person – such as in your hands, in the purse slung over your shoulders, or in your pants pocket. Constructive possession usually involves three elements and is generally harder to define as well as prove.
For constructive possession to exist, the individual not only was aware or the presence and illegal nature of the substance, but also had the intent and ability to take control of the controlled substance. For the charge to hold in court all three elements of constructive possession or any element of actual possession must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Without proof of actual or constructive possession, your charges may be reduced or dismissed. An experienced Philadelphia drug defense attorney may be able to poke holes in the prosecution's case of possession against you and therefore achieve a more favorable outcome.
The Schedule of Controlled Substances in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the schedule of controlled substances is arranged much like the federal system. Drugs are listed according to addiction and abuse risks as well as medical capabilities. Pennsylvania has five schedules, with Schedule V for the least serious substances, and Schedule I for the most serious substances.
Schedule V
- Least potential for abuse
- Accepted medical use in U.S.
- Includes medications with small amounts of codeine or opium
Schedule IV
- Lower potential for abuse
- Commonly used in U.S. for medical purpose
- Includes many prescription drugs
Schedule III
- Mild potential for abuse, but less than Schedule I & II
- Medical use in the U.S. is commonly known
- Includes LSD and anabolic steroids
Schedule II
- High potential for abuse
- Very limited medical application in the U.S.
- Includes cocaine, meth, and opium
Schedule I
- Highest potential for abuse
- No known U.S. medical use
- Includes heroin, marijuana, and peyote
Finding the Best Drug Possession Defense Attorney in Philadelphia
The LLF Law Firm operates on the principle that every defendant deserves respect, quality legal services, and perseverance when they need it most. If you have been charged with drug possession in Philadelphia, it is important to hire an attorney that will fight for your rights and your future to the end, and beyond if necessary.
Call (888) 535-3686 today to schedule your free consultation with LLF Law Firm and see what defense strategies we can offer your Philadelphia controlled substance case.
