As the “war on drugs” continues, states across the United States are enacting harsher penalties for drug charges in an effort to discourage the possession of controlled dangerous substances. Oklahoma too has established strict punishments for drug possession and other drug charges, even those in which there is no intent to sell or distribute the …
As the “war on drugs” continues, states across the United States are enacting harsher penalties for drug charges in an effort to discourage the possession of controlled dangerous substances. Oklahoma too has established strict punishments for drug possession and other drug charges, even those in which there is no intent to sell or distribute the illegal drug. Because authorities in Oklahoma have taken a strong stance against drug possession, anyone facing drug possession charges in Oklahoma should enlist the help of a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Even a misdemeanor charge of drug possession in Oklahoma can result in time in jail. With our experienced attorneys at Oklahoma Legal Center on your side, you can build the best possible defense and ensure that your legal rights are protected in the process.
Illegal Drugs That Can Result in Possession Charges
One of the most important factors in a drug possession case is the type of drug found on the defendant’s person. Drug possession charges in Oklahoma often involve illicit drugs like:
- Marijuana
- Ecstasy
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Prescription drugs not prescribed to you by a doctor
Penalties for Oklahoma Drug Possession Charges
For a first drug possession offense, the penalties could include up to ten years in prison depending on the type and amount of drugs that are found during the arrest, as well as any prior offenses. If the substance found is marijuana or another drug considered to be less “serious,” the convicted defendant could face up to one year in prison. For other, more “serious” substances, including methamphetamine or cocaine, a first drug possession offense could result in penalties like two to ten years in prison. If a defendant is charged with a second offense for drug possession in Oklahoma, the penalties become much more stringent. For example, a person convicted of a second drug possession offense involving methamphetamine will face at least four years in prison and possibly up to 20 years. If the second offense involves marijuana however, the charges may include up to ten years in prison.
Legal Help for Drug Possession Charges in Oklahoma
According to the drug possession statute in Oklahoma, it is unlawful for any person to knowingly possess a controlled dangerous substance unless each substance was obtained directly, or pursuant to a valid prescription or order from a practitioner, while acting in the course of his professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by this act. Drug possession charges in Oklahoma are prosecuted aggressively, and anyone in violation of this statute could face life-altering criminal charges and penalties. If you are facing drug possession charges in Oklahoma, your first course of action should be to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to guide you through the legal process. Our criminal defense attorneys at Oklahoma Legal Center are familiar with Oklahoma drug possession laws and can help you defend yourself against the charges you are facing.