Any drug crime can be a serious offense, with penalties ranging from $500 to several years in prison, depending on the nature of the charges. If you’ve been accused of drug possession, cultivation, or trafficking, understanding the law is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best outcome possible. Below is an overview of drug laws and penalties for a conviction in Missouri.

Drug Possession

While Missouri has not legalized the possession of marijuana, defendants accused of carrying less than 35 grams will face misdemeanor charges, with possible fines of up to $500. However, more than 35 grams or having any other controlled substance, no matter the amount, will trigger felony drug possession charges, potentially resulting in seven years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Drug Distribution

Missouri law carries harsh penalties for drug distribution, with prison terms of up to seven years for selling less than five grams of marijuana. More than five grams or the distribution of any other illegal substance is a class B felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Drug Trafficking

Those in possession of large amounts of a controlled substance may be charged with drug trafficking, which is either a class A or class B felony. Depending on the quantity in your possession and the schedule of the illegal substance, defendants charged with a class B felony may face sentences of five to 15 years, while a conviction for a class A felony may receive a life sentence.

If you’ve been charged with drug possession or any other offense, you need a dedicated attorney with extensive experience fighting for your rights. For over 30 years, the Law Office of Mike Hamilton has provided aggressive, effective representation to defendants throughout the Columbia area, achieving impressive results against an array of criminal charges. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (573) 825-5698 to schedule your initial consultation with an accomplished defense attorney.

_{The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.}