Minneapolis Drug Crime Attorney

It is important for defendants to understand the breakdown of misdemeanor vs. felony drug offenses in Minnesota. Three important factors will play a role in determining the level of the crime, and those are the following:

• Did you sell the drugs, or did you merely possess them?
• What type of drugs are involved?
• How much of the drugs were in your possession?

The sentencing guidelines vary on if the crime is pursued as a misdemeanor or a felony. A Minnesota drug crimes attorney can assist defendants in getting charges reduced or dismissed.

St. Paul Felony Lawyer

One of the most common drug convictions involves marijuana, and the amount of the drug is largely what determines the charge and consequences. For example, people in Minnesota who are found with 42.5 grams or less will face a petty misdemeanor charge. A conviction of such a crime comes with a fine of $300. However, if law enforcement finds more than 42.5 grams either in your possession or that you sold or intended to sell, the charge will become a felony and the consequences quickly escalate. Possession of more than 100 kg could equate to 30 years in prison and fines up to of $1 million.

Drug crimes involving possession of other substances are also categorized by the amount of the drug. Felony charges of first through fifth degree possession apply to controlled substances measured either by doses, such as the case with hallucinogens or pill narcotics, or weight, for drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine. Amounts that do not fall into the state’s felony drug offenses guidelines will usually merit a misdemeanor charge.

The other key component of a drug charge – selling the substance – also largely hinges upon the amount of the product involved. Other related crimes involve possession of drug paraphernalia, which Minnesota usually treats as a misdemeanor.

Secure Representation

A drug crimes attorney understands how Minnesota views possession and intent to sell charges. At Keller Law Offices, we have successfully defended clients through obtaining stays of adjudication, which prevents the charge from appearing on a criminal record. A felony attorney can also secure a stay of imposition, which will reduce the charge to a misdemeanor once the probation period has ended. If you have been charged with a drug-related crime, please contact our office at 952-913-1421 to schedule a free consultation.