9130 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, VA 22553

Criminal Defense of Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing in Spotsylvania and surrounding Counties

What is Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing?

This type of charges involves the actions of manufacturing, selling, giving, distributing, or possessing with intent to manufacture, sell, give, or distribute a controlled substance or an imitation controlled substance pursuant to §18.2-248.

This type of charge is very serious and requires a knowledgeable and experienced attorney with a proven track record.

What are the Penalties for a Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing Conviction?

If found guilty of drug distribution/manufacturing, penalties for a first time offender can include:

    • A minimum five (5) years and maximum 40 years penitentiary term
    • A felony criminal record, which can negatively impact employment opportunities and travel outside of the United States

Charges of drug distribution, drug manufacturing and/or drug possession with the intent to distribute carry greater penalties than those for simple possession.

What are the Penalties for Subsequent Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing Convictions?

In addition to the penalties for first time offenders, a subsequent drug distribution or a drug manufacturing conviction can result in dramatically increased penalties, including:

    • A minimum five (5) year term and no maximum penitentiary term for second conviction of Schedule I or II narcotics
    • A minimum ten (10) year term and no maximum penitentiary term for third conviction of Schedule I or II narcotics
    • A minimum ten (10) year term and no maximum penitentiary term for second and third conviction of methamphetamine
    • A fine of $500,000

There is an enhanced penalty structure tied to the weight of the drug that can result in 20 years of the sentence being a mandatory minimum with a fine not to exceed $1,000,000.

What are the Different Schedules of Drugs?

In Virginia, drugs are classified by schedules, including:

    • Schedule I: Opiates & opium derivatives, most hallucinogens and tetrahydrocannabinols such as Cathinone (Khat), GHB (Liquid Ecstasy), Hash Oil, Heroin, LSD, MDMA (Ecstasy), Mescaline (Peyote), Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms).
    • Schedule II: Opium & Opiates; also many central nervous system depressants and stimulants such as Cocaine, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Methamphetamine, Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Kibbles & Bits, Pineapple), Morphine, Oxycodone, Phencyclidine (PCP, Angel Dust), Methadone, Sufentanyl.
    • Schedule III: Some central nervous system depressants (such as barbiturates), Anabolic steroids, Hydrocodone with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or aspirin (Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab), Codeine, Ketamine (Special-K).
    • Schedule IV: Prescription drugs such as Alprazolam (Xanax, Niravam), Dextropropoxyphene (Darvon), Diazepam (Valium), Flunitrazepam (Rohyponol, “date rape” drug, roofies), Pentazocine (Talwin), as well as other tranquilizers
    • Schedule V: Cough medicines with codeine
    • Schedule VI: Certain other controlled substances

Why Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney if charged with Drug Distribution or Drug Manufacturing in Virginia?

Having the assistance of an experienced defense lawyer can greatly increase your chances of avoiding the serious and often lengthy sentences that result from drug-related convictions.  Where plea negotiations are the best course of action, knowledge of the Virginia sentencing guidelines and experienced negotiation skills with prosecutors are essential.

If you are charged with drug distribution or drug manufacturing, check out Susan’s proven track record and then contact The Law Firm of Susan F. Fremit, P.C. immediately, to set up a free consultation to see how her experience can working for you.

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