There are several factors that can influence drug possession charges. Judges may look at the use of a drug and whether it was intended to be distributed. Who these drugs were distributed to and the quantity of the drugs can also affect possession charges. A suspect who has a previous criminal conviction may also face harsher punishments.
One factor that plays into a drug possession charge is the severity of the drug. The Controlled Substance Act distinguishes drugs into five categories called schedules. Here is what you should know:
5 kinds of drug schedules
Drug schedules are categorized based on their medical use and their tendency to cause addiction. Many drugs are addictive, some more so than others. Drugs that are more likely to cause addiction may cause users to become physically and mentally dependent.
There are five drug schedules. Schedule V drugs are often the lowest and can be found in drug stores and prescribed by doctors. Schedule I drugs are the harshest. These drugs have no medical uses. The schedules in between typically have some to very few medical purposes. The following includes examples of drugs under their classification:
- Schedule I: Heroin, peyote and magic mushrooms (psilocybin)
- Schedule II: Adderall, cocaine and Ritalin
- Schedule III: Steroids, ketamine and testosterone
- Schedule IV: Xanax and Valium
- Schedule V: Cough syrup and allergy pills
In Michigan, penalties for drug possession can vary depending on the drug’s classification. The possession of Schedule I or II drugs, for example, can lead to 20 years behind bars and $250,000 in fines. However, defendants who understand their legal options can reduce criminal charges.