If you’ve been accused of a drug offense, protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome depends on fully understanding the charges against you. While some drug offenses are federal crimes, most are covered by each state’s criminal law code, which varies somewhat from one jurisdiction to the next. Below is a quick overview of North Carolina’s drug offenses, including the potential penalties for conviction.

Understanding Drug Laws in North Carolina

How Drugs Are Categorized

North Carolina’s criminal law divides substances into six different categories or schedules. Schedule I drugs and the precursors to make them, such as opiates, ecstasy, and most hallucinogens, are considered the most serious, while marijuana and other nonaddictive substances are classified as Schedule VI. Every other controlled substance is scheduled according to their medical uses and potential for harm.

Possession Charges

The penalties for possession vary according to the schedule and amount of the substances in question. Possession of a Class I or II substance in North Carolina is considered a Class H felony, punishable by anywhere from four months to two years in jail. Possession of a VI substance is considered a Class 3 felony, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Distribution Charges

North Carolina criminal law treats selling controlled substances as a felony, with harsher penalties for certain drugs. In some circumstances, even delivering drugs for someone else can result in felony charges, depending on the substance in question. North Carolina makes an exception for delivering less than five grams of marijuana, as long as no money changed hands.

Manufacturing Charges

Growing, creating, or processing controlled substances is among the most serious criminal offenses under North Carolina law. Penalties are especially harsh for those accused of manufacturing methamphetamines, which is a Class C felony. A conviction for this crime may result in four to seven years in prison, depending on your prior criminal record.

If you’ve been accused of a drug offense anywhere in the High Point, NC, area, Thomas W. Smothers, Attorney At Law will fight to ensure justice is done. Because he focuses exclusively on criminal law, you can rely on this experienced attorney for skilled advocacy based on an in-depth understanding of the system. Visit him online for more on his criminal defense services, get more tips and insight on Twitter, or call (336) 885-1240 to discuss your case and schedule a consultation.