Determined Longmont Attorneys Defend Clients Accused of Drug Crimes

Established Colorado law firm represents those facing narcotics charges

Even though marijuana has been partially legalized under Colorado law, people in the Longmont, Boulder County and Weld County areas still regularly find themselves on the wrong end of criminal charges related to that drug and others such as heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and methamphetamine. If you are up against drug charges, including the possession, distribution and manufacturing of a wide variety of narcotics and controlled substances, you need a knowledgeable and experienced attorney on your side. The firm of Flanders, Elsberg, Herber & Dunn, LLC has been defending clients in the Longmont area since 1871 and remains at the forefront of innovative criminal defense. We are committed to mounting a defense that protects your rights and your freedom.

Understanding Colorado’s marijuana laws

Colorado is one of the few states in the nation that allow the purchase and consumption of marijuana for recreational use. While it is legal to buy and possess small amounts of the drug in the state, other laws still apply, and the penalties for violating those laws can be severe. Restrictions exist on:

• Sales — Only a licensed dispensary can sell marijuana, marijuana extracts or edibles. Sellers who deviate from these laws could face penalties of up to six years in jail and fines of up to $500,000.
• Growing — While you can safely grow a few plants at home, you may only have six plants at any given time, and only three of them may be mature plants. Large-scale growers face up to six years in jail and $500,000 in fines if caught.
• Possession — The law allows individuals to possess one ounce of marijuana. Anything more can result in charges. Possession of large quantities can result in fines and jail sentences of up to two years. There are also restrictions on the possession of hash and other concentrates in amounts over one ounce.

A conviction could cause you to lose your job, your social standing or even future educational opportunities. You do not need to face these charges on your own. Our criminal law attorneys work hard to protect your rights.

Passionate defense attorneys for controlled substances cases

While Colorado’s marijuana laws have been relaxed, the state continues to charge defendants with misdemeanor and felony crimes for the possession or sale of a variety of other controlled substances and narcotics. In Colorado, controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are divided into five “schedule” classes. The most serious penalties are associated with Schedule I substances such as heroin, LSD, ecstasy and synthetic opiates. Schedule II drug possession also comes with serious penalties. Drugs in this category include cocaine, opium, morphine, methamphetamines and methadone. Schedules III, IV and V include various pharmaceutical drugs that are illegal to possess without a prescription and illegal for individuals to sell.

Penalties associated with various drug crimes

If you are charged with a drug crime, the penalties vary depending on the schedule of the drug involved, your previous offenses and the specific crime you are accused of:

• The possession of a Schedule I or II substance may result in four to 12 years in prison. A second offense could result in eight to 24 years of incarceration.
• Possessing a Schedule III drug could result in two to six years in prison. A second offense carries a sentence of four to 12 years.
• Possession of Schedule IV substances can mean one to three years in prison. A second offense could bring a penalty of two to six years.

Each of these penalties is accompanied by the possibility of a fine that can range from $1,000 up to $1 million. The sale of most Schedule I, II, III or IV drugs can result in a felony charge, while most Schedule V drug sales result in misdemeanors. For help understanding the penalties associated with charges for possession, distribution, production or trafficking of illegal substances, consult our knowledgeable defense team.

Count on a Northern Colorado law firm to defend against drug charges

If you are facing charges for the production, trafficking or possession of narcotics, you need a knowledgeable, resolute attorney on your side. The firm of Flanders, Elsberg, Herber & Dunn, LLC provides clients with comprehensive defense representation. From our office in Longmont, we represent people in Larimer County and the surrounding areas. To schedule a consultation with a Longmont defense attorney, contact us online or call us at 303.569.6513.