Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Deliver/Distribute

Criminal Defense for Those in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan Charged with Cocaine Possession with Intent to Deliver or Distribute

In Michigan, possessing cocaine with the intent to deliver or distribute is an extremely serious offense. Individuals who are arrested and subsequently convicted will find the consequences life changing, as the penalties include substantial prison time and even life behind bars in some circumstances. At Grabel & Associates our Michigan drug crimes defense attorneys have what it takes to obtain a positive outcome for our clients. Recognized as one of the most aggressive and successful drug crime law firms in Michigan, we offer a level of experience and skill that is unsurpassed.

Today, local, state, and even federal authorities and law enforcement crack down on drug crimes harder than ever before. If you are caught in possession of cocaine and it is determined that you intended to distribute or deliver the drug, the punishment is severe. Additionally, the larger the amount of cocaine involved, the harsher the penalties become. Cocaine is a highly popular "party" drug in the U.S. today, and people from all walks of life use the drug, regardless of social standing. It is second in popularity and use only to marijuana.

Effects and Risks of Cocaine Use

Some of the short-term effects of using cocaine include a feeling of euphoria, energy, and mental alertness particularly in terms of sound, touch, and sight. Some individuals find they seem more efficient physically or intellectually, while others feel quite the opposite.

Heavy cocaine use can result in bizarre or violent behavior, a feeling of panic or anxiety, even paranoia. Some of the physical effects that may put user’s health at risk include respiratory or cardiac arrest, seizures, strokes, heart attacks, headaches and gastrointestinal complications.

Penalties for Cocaine Possession with Intent to Deliver or Distribute

Using cocaine is a misdemeanor offense in Michigan; individuals caught using cocaine will face penalties which include a fine of up to $2,000, up to one year in jail, or both.

The penalties become extremely harsh when an individual is convicted for cocaine possession, and even worse for those convicted for cocaine possession with intent to deliver or distribute. Cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug in Michigan, which means it is a drug that is highly dangerous with a substantial potential for addiction and/or abuse. The penalties you will face if convicted depend largely on the amount of cocaine involved, and whether you have a previous drug-related criminal conviction. Penalties are as follows:

• Less than 50 grams of cocaine, up to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $25,000
• 50 grams to 449 grams of cocaine, up to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $250,000
• 450 grams to 999 grams of cocaine, up to 30 years in prison and/or fines of up to $500,000
• 1,000 grams or more of cocaine, potential life in prison and/or fines of up to $1,000,000

Whether the crime you are accused of occurred in close proximity of a school, park, church or business or involved a minor can also affect the sentencing you will face.

Our Michigan cocaine defense attorneys also know that there are circumstances in which an individual may be charged with intent to deliver or distribute when this is not actually the case. For example, you may have been found in possession of a substantial amount of cocaine; for that reason, police and prosecutors may suspect that you intended to deliver the drug. They will work vigorously to prove intent, which subjects the individual to the harshest penalties.

Consult with an Aggressive Michigan Drug Crimes Lawyer Immediately

Without the support and legal guidance of a competent attorney, individuals charged with cocaine possession with intent to deliver or distribute will almost certainly face harsh, life-changing consequences. We know there are many defense strategies that may be effective for protecting the freedom and legal rights of our clients. We are ready to explore all of the options available to you and help determine the best course of action to take.

At Grabel & Associates, we are dedicated to securing a favorable outcome for each and every client we represent. We are available to discuss your case 24/7, any time day or night. Contact us now at 1-800-342-7896 to speak with an experienced case analyst regarding your situation.