Drug Offenses

Understanding Drug Laws in Alabama: A brief overview for Auburn and Opelika Residents

Introduction
This guide is designed to inform residents, particularly in Auburn and Opelika and surrounding areas in Alabama, about the state’s drug laws and the significant legal implications of drug offenses.

Key Drug Offenses and Their Maximum Penalties

Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substances & Possession with Intent to Distribute

• Overview: Involves selling, furnishing, or distributing controlled substances, or possessing with intent to distribute.
• Penalties: Both are Class B felonies, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Unlawful Possession or Receipt of Controlled Substances

• Overview: Unauthorized possession of controlled substances or obtaining them by deceit.
• Penalties: Class D felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

Unlawful Possession of Marijuana (First and Second Degree)

• Overview: Possession of marijuana, either for personal use (second degree) or for other than personal use (first degree).
• Penalties: First degree is a Class C felony (up to 10 years in prison), and second degree is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail).

Unlawful Possession of Certain Chemical Compounds (e.g., Salvia Divinorum)

• Overview: Possession of specified chemical compounds is illegal.
• Penalties: Subject to the same penalties as Class C misdemeanors.

Sale of Controlled Substances to Persons Under Age 18 by Persons Over Age 18

• Overview: Adults selling controlled substances to minors.
• Penalties: Class A felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment.

Unlawful Manufacture of Controlled Substance (First and Second Degree)

• Overview: Manufacturing controlled substances, with first-degree considering aggravating factors.
• Penalties: First degree is a Class A felony (up to life imprisonment), and second degree is a Class B felony (up to 20 years in prison).

Unlawful Possession of Anhydrous Ammonia

• Overview: Possession of anhydrous ammonia with intent to use in manufacturing controlled substances.
• Penalties: Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Trafficking in Cannabis, Cocaine, and Other Drugs

• Overview: Involves possessing, manufacturing, or distributing large amounts of various controlled substances.
• Penalties: Varies from mandatory minimum terms to life imprisonment, depending on the substance and amount.

Additional Penalty for Unlawful Sale Near School Campuses

• Overview: Enhanced penalties for selling controlled substances near educational institutions.
• Penalties: Additional 5 years of incarceration.

Suspension of Driver License

One of the things that people sometimes don’t know is that the state will suspend their driver’s license if they are convicted of certain drug offenses. For more information about this consequence, click here.

Contact Vaughn Defense

For legal support regarding drug offenses, I provide guidance and representation in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama. Contact me today for a free consultation.

Conclusion

Understanding Alabama’s drug laws is crucial for legal compliance and personal safety. This guide aims to educate and inform about the serious implications of drug offenses.

Nothing in this guide should be construed as legal advice or the establishment of an attorney client relationship. For more information about anything contained on this page, please contact me to discuss.