Even first offense felony drug charges can come with significant penalties, so it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights
Some clients believe that it is easier to avoid significant penalties when a first offense is involved. This is unfortunately not true, especially when it comes to first offense felony drug charges in the state of Massachusetts.
Just because a drug charge is a first offense, don’t assume that you may not be facing serious penalties. With the guidance and representation of a criminal defense lawyer on your side you may be able to beat the charges or work out a plea deal that does not involve a criminal conviction. The Greater Boston area and Middlesex County of Massachusetts are served by The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg. If you or a loved one has been charged with a criminal offense, then you need to contact our law firm today for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. Schedule your free consultation now: 978-221-2503.
What you need to know about first offense felony drug charges
First offense felony charges in Massachusetts may involve, possession, possession with the intent to distribute, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking illegal drugs. Here is a deeper look into some of these charges:
Possession With Intent to Distribute Class A Substance: A first offense for this crime is considered a felony. Substances that fall into Class A include heroin, morphine, ketamine, and GHB. The potential penalties for this crime include a maximum of 10 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.
Possession With Intent to Distribute Class B Substance: This offense is also considered a felony, and may involve Class B substances like cocaine, crack, and methamphetamine. This class also includes certain pain pills including oxycodone and oxycontin. The potential penalties for this crime include 10 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.
Do you need the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer for a drug charge? Contact The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg today for a free consultation: 978-221-2503.
Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute Class C Substance: This felony offense involves substances including prescription tranquilizers and prescription narcotics like Clonazepan, Valium, and Vicodin. Hallucinogenic drugs like mescaline and psilocybin-containing mushrooms also fall into this class. The potential penalties for this type of crime includes 10 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.
Possession With Intent to Distribute to a Minor
The charges become more significant when anyone under the age of 18 is involved. The penalties are enhanced for a conviction on this crime, and include more significant mandatory sentencing. For instance, possession with the intent to distribute heroin to a minor carries a minimum mandatory sentence of five years in state prison and a $1,000 fine. Potential maximum penalties include up to 15 years in state prison and up to $25,000 in fines. Class B substances, other than cocaine, carry the same possible penalties. Cocaine, on the other hand, carries similar penalties, although the mandatory minimum is three years in state prison with a max of 15 years.
Drug trafficking penalties
Trafficking penalties are determined depending on the amount of the substance being trafficked. For instance, 14 – 28 grams of heroin being trafficked has a minimum mandatory sentence of five years in state prison. 200 grams or more as a mandatory minimum of 15 years in state prison. Trafficking 50 pounds of marijuana has a mandatory minimum sentence of one year in state prison. However, trafficking 10,000 pounds or more has a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in state prison. Trafficking of cocaine, has a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in state prison for an amount of 14 – 28 grams. 200 grams or more comes with a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in state prison.
The Greater Boston area and Middlesex County are served by The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg
If you or a loved one has been arrested on a drug charge, then you need experienced representation on your side. The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg have won numerous cases involving drugs. Put the best defense you can on your side. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case: 978-221-2503.