Unexpectedly, you may have found yourself facing serious criminal charges. The situation may seem like a bad dream, but in reality, you know you have a legal predicament that needs your utmost attention. If authorities have accused you of drug possession or distribution, you may wonder what you could face in the near future when it comes to addressing your case.
The best approach to your situation could vary from even similar-seeming cases. Therefore, you could find it useful to understand the exact allegations with which authorities have charged you and how Arkansas state law may apply. If the charges relate to cocaine possession, you could face a more serious predicament than with other types of controlled substances.
Cocaine possession
If police believe that you have cocaine in your possession, they will likely take you into custody and charge you for the alleged drug crime. However, the amount of cocaine purportedly in your possession could impact the severity of the charges and potential consequences if a conviction took place.
If police believe you have less than 2 grams of cocaine, they will likely charge you with a Class D felony. A Class C felony increases in severity, and this charge comes about when you possess 2 to 10 grams of cocaine. The next level — a Class B felony — results from possession of 10 to 200 grams of cocaine. If you have over 200 grams, authorities automatically consider that a distributable amount, and charges increase to include the intent to deliver.
Possession with intent to deliver
Cocaine possession with the intent to deliver means that authorities suspect that you intended to sell the substance. Though possessing over 200 grams automatically results in an intent to deliver charge, smaller amounts can also lead to these charges under lower classification felonies. When charged with intent to deliver in relation to possessing between 10 and 200 grams of cocaine, you could face a Class A felony, which may result in six to 30 years of prison time if convicted.
Defending against charges
Understandably, facing cocaine possession or intent to deliver allegations could leave you feeling stressed and uncertain. However, you do not have to simply accept the idea that you will face severe punishment. You have the right to defend against the charges, and information about your options may help you choose the best path for your case. During this time, you may wish to consider utilizing local legal resources.