Drug charges are a type of criminal offense that involves giving, distributing, possessing, and transporting illegal substances. While these can have serious consequences, not all drug charges are equal. In the legal system, they are typically classified as either misdemeanors or felonies.

Understanding the distinctions between these two categories is essential, as they dictate the severity of the charges and the potential consequences an individual may face. Read on to learn about the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor drug charge.

What Are Misdemeanor Drug Charges?

Misdemeanor charges are considered less severe than their felony counterparts. These often involve low-level drug offenses that do not involve the possession or intent to distribute large quantities of controlled substances. Some common types of misdemeanor drug offenses include the following:

  • Simple Possession

One of the most common misdemeanor charges is the possession of a small amount of illegal drugs. While the amount may vary depending on your state, it usually involves having a few ounces, typically for personal use and not for distribution.

  • Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Drug paraphernalia includes items commonly used in the consumption and production of illegal substances, such as pipes, syringes, rolling papers, or bongs. A person may be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia even if there are no drugs found on them.

Punishments

Although misdemeanor drug charges are considered relatively mild, they still come with significant penalties that can affect an individual’s life. The extent of the charges may depend on whether it’s a first-, second-, or third-degree misdemeanor. Some common punishments are:

  • 6 to 12 months of imprisonment

  • A fine of $1,000 – $4,000

In some cases, convicted individuals may be required to complete a drug education or treatment program as part of their punishment. Besides that, some repeat offenders of third to second-degree misdemeanor charges may also be faced with felony-level sentencing with harsher punishments.

What Are Felony Drug Charges?

Felony drug charges involve more serious crimes that typically include possessing, distributing, selling, and manufacturing larger quantities of illegal substances. Being convicted of these crimes also results in more severe penalties compared to misdemeanors. Some common felony offenses include the following:

  • Drug Trafficking

This is also known as possession with intent to distribute. Drug trafficking involves the transportation of large quantities of illegal substances with the intent to distribute or sell them for profit. The amount of drugs required to be charged with this type of felony varies from state to state. Drug trafficking penalties can be severe and include lengthy prison sentences and large fines.

  • Drug Manufacturing

Another typical felony charge is drug manufacturing. This is usually associated with the production of controlled substances, like cocaine or methamphetamine. Manufacturing can also include growing illegal drugs like marijuana or cultivating poppies for heroin production.

Punishments

As felony charges are deemed the most serious type of drug crime, the penalties that come with it reflect the gravity of the offense. These punishments may vary by state and depend on factors, such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, prior convictions, and the overall circumstances of the case. Some penalties include:

  • Substantial fines of up to $20,000

  • Long-time incarceration of up to 10 years

  • Probation

  • Mandatory drug treatment programs

  • Forfeiture of offense-related assets

  • Potential suspension of driver’s license

In addition to the immediate penalties, felony convictions can have long-term repercussions on an individual’s life. This may include challenges in finding job opportunities, difficulty obtaining housing and financial aid, and the loss of certain civil rights, like the ability to vote and hold professional licenses.

Get in Touch With a Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney

Understanding the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor drug charge is greatly beneficial should you or a loved one become involved in such criminal cases. Besides learning about the types of drug charges, you will also understand the potential consequences a convicted individual may face.

Being convicted of drug charges, whether a misdemeanor or felony, can have a significant impact on your life. So, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and build a strong defense strategy. For reliable legal services, contact a trusted criminal defense attorney near you.