Possession

Criminal Defense Attorney for Drug Possession Charges in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Throughout Michigan

Michigan is a state in which all drug offenses are taken very seriously. In fact, the state is one of the toughest in the nation when it comes to drug charges, including possession. At Grabel & Associates, our skilled drug crime lawyers provide unparalleled legal guidance and representation for individuals arrested for possession of marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, prescription drugs and all other controlled substances.

Depending on the type and amount of drug involved, drug possession can have severe repercussions. Not only may an individual be arrested for possessing drugs, criminal charges may also apply if that individual is found to be in possession of syringes, marijuana pipes or other paraphernalia related to drugs. Possessing a small amount of marijuana is typically classified as a misdemeanor offense; however this may still incur penalties including fines, possible jail time and driver’s license suspension.

Michigan Controlled Substance Schedules

Michigan, like many other states in the U.S., organizes controlled substances by schedules. This is done primarily to assist with prosecuting those arrested for drug possession, and for sentencing purposes. How much prison time an individual may face if convicted depends primarily on how much of a controlled substance he or she is in possession of, and what that controlled substance is.

Schedule I Substances. Schedule I drugs typically serve no legitimate medical purpose but an increased potential for abuse. Some examples of drugs that fall under this schedule include:

• Marijuana
• LSD
• Ecstasy
• Peyote
• Date Rape Drug (GHB)
• Heroin

Schedule II Substances. This schedule includes drugs that while approved in the U.S. for medical use, are highly addictive and often abused. Most are highly regulated because of their potential for addiction, and include:

• Oxycodone
• Methadone
• Morphine
• Cocaine
• Hydrocodone
• Methamphetamines

Schedule III Substances. Drugs that fall into this schedule are often used for medical purposes but considered less of a risk for addiction or dependency, and include:

• Hydrocodone with acetaminophen or aspirin
• Lower potency Morphine
• Anabolic Steroids (Ketamine)

Schedule IV Substances. Drugs in the Schedule IV category are considered to be less risky in terms of potential abuse and addiction and are widely used for medical treatment. These drugs include:

• Xanax
• Valium
• Rohypnol

Schedule V Substances. This category includes many drugs that are available over the counter, and considered low risk in terms of abuse. Some of these substances include:

• Cough syrups containing Codeine
• Cold medicines containing ephedrine

A conviction can be life changing, regardless of how minor the possession seems, or which Schedule is involved. Our Michigan drug possession attorneys provide legal representation to clients accused of or arrested for all types of drug possession. Our firm enjoys a stellar reputation as one of Michigan's most effective drug crime defense firms; we consistently achieve positive results for our clients.

Criminal Drug Possession Penalties Throughout Michigan including Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing

Drug possession penalties according to Michigan Penal Code 333.7403:

Penalties for individuals found to be in possession of Schedule I or II controlled substances:

• Between 25 and 50 grams (felony) - Fines of up to $25,000 and 4 years in prison.
• Between 50 and 450 grams (felony) - Fines of up to $250,000 and a maximum of 20 years in prison.
• Between 450 and 1,000 grams (felony) - Fines of up to $500,000 and a maximum of 30 years in prison.

More than 1,000 grams (felony) - Fines of up to $1,000,000 and up to life in prison.

Marijuana Possession

A maximum penalty of $2,000 in fines and up to one year in prison applies to marijuana possession under Michigan drug laws, regardless of the amount possessed. However, penalties may differ if charged with possession with intent to deliver.

Methamphetamines or Ecstasy Possession

Michigan drug laws dictate that possession of Meth or MDMA (Ecstasy) in any amount be penalized by a $15,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison.

An additional penalty of up to 2 years in prison may apply if you are caught in possession of a controlled substance in any amount in a public park. Enhanced sentences may result as well if you are caught in possession of drugs in close proximity to churches, schools or businesses.

Any individual who is convicted on a second drug offense according to Michigan Penal Code 333.7413 such as possessing more than 50g of a Schedule I or II drug may face life in prison. Those who have a previous conviction on drug-related charges must contact a lawyer immediately.

At Grabel & Associates our goal is to protect our clients' freedom, reputation and legal rights. As Michigan's top drug crime defense team, we invite you to contact us regarding your case today at 1-800-342-7896.