Drug Possession Penalties
Possession of illicit controlled substances (CDS) is another serious crime
in Louisiana. The state divides CDS into five different “schedules,”
where Schedule I contains the most dangerous drugs with a high probability
of abuse and addiction and no recognized medical value, while Schedule
V has a lower level of dangerousness and probability of abuse and has
a recognized medical use.
Possession of Schedule I CDS are divided into non-marijuana offenses and
marijuana offenses. Non-marijuana offenses can be punishable by 1-10 years
in prison and/or fines up to $5,000, while marijuana offenses will warrant
up to 6 months in parish jail and/or fines of up to $1,000. The penalties
will increase to felony sentences ranging from 2-8 years’ imprisonment
and fines of up to $5,000 for subsequent violations.
Possession of Schedule II, III, IV, and V drugs generally involve a sentence
of 1-5 years in prison and/or fines of up to $5,000, with certain exceptions
for specific drugs like PCP, which is punishable by 20 years in prison,
and whether the offense was committed in a drug-free zone, such as a school.
To learn more about specific sentencing for certain drug possession offenses,
visit our page on drug crimes.
White Collar Crimes
Other common criminal offenses in Louisiana that will require a strong
defense are white collar crimes. White collar offenses broadly encompass
the following types of charges:
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Bank fraud
- Bribery
- Cellphone fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Forgery
- Insurance fraud
-
Theft
- Welfare fraud
Depending on the type of crime a person has been charged with, they will
face specific penalties that will range from prison time to fines to full
restitution to those parties affected. For instance, someone convicted
of bank fraud could face imprisonment for up to 10 years with or without
hard labor and possibly fined up to $100,000, as well as ordered to make
full restitution to the entity who has suffered a financial loss due to the act.
Visit our page on white collar crimes to learn more about certain white collar offenses and their associated
penalties.
Call Precht & Brown, Attorneys at Law for Professional and Compassionate Advocacy
If you are facing criminal charges, whether for a violent crime, drug possession,
or white collar offense, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney
immediately for legal representation. Precht & Brown, Attorneys at Law has the professional
experience you need to put up an aggressive fight in court, and you can
trust that the firm will strategize a bold and compelling defense for
you in Lafayette.
