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Providing Powerful Legal Defense To Those Facing Drug Charges

Drug charges can change a person’s life forever, between prison time, fines, a criminal record, and the potential loss of liberties. At Gean, Gean & Gean, our attorneys strive to defend people in Western Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma from the penalties associated with drug crimes so they may retain their freedom and bright futures.

What Is A Controlled Substance?

A controlled substance is a drug or chemical whose manufacture, distribution, possession and use are regulated by the government.

These substances are categorized into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, accepted medical use and likelihood of causing dependence. Schedule I drugs have the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, while Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and accepted medical use.

Is There A Difference Between Drug Possession, Drug Manufacturing And Drug Trafficking?

When it comes to drug possession, drug manufacturing and drug trafficking in Arkansas, each carries distinct legal ramifications:

  • Drug possession is the act of having illegal drugs or controlled substances in one’s possession without authorization. Drug possession is classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on factors such as the type and amount of the drug. For example, in Arkansas, possessing less than 4 ounces (about 113.4 g) of marijuana is considered a Class A misdemeanor, while possessing more than 4 ounces is a Class D felony.
  • Drug manufacturing is the production, cultivation or synthesis of controlled substances. This offense is a felony and carries more severe penalties than drug possession. Manufacturing can include growing marijuana, producing methamphetamine or extracting cannabinoids from cannabis plants. Drug manufacturing penalties can range from several years in prison to hefty fines, especially if the manufacturing occurs on a large scale or involves dangerous substances.
  • Drug trafficking is the distribution or sale of controlled substances. It is the most serious of the three offenses and can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. Trafficking charges depend on factors such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, as well as the location and extent of distribution. In Arkansas, the trafficking of drugs like methamphetamine or cocaine can result in life imprisonment without parole.

Whatever your situation, working with our experienced drug crime defense attorneys can boost your chances of a favorable outcome.

The Penalties For Drug Charges In Arkansas

The penalties for drug crimes vary depending on the substance involved. Here’s what the drug schedule looks like in Arkansas:

  • Schedule I: Heroin, cocaine, LSD, MDMA, psilocybin and mescaline
  • Schedule II: Oxycodone, fentanyl, meth, codeine and morphine
  • Schedule III: Ketamine and anabolic steroids
  • Schedule IV: Barbital, diazepam and tramadol
  • Schedule V: Ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and cough medicines containing codeine
  • Schedule VI: Marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids and salvia

Here’s how Arkansas classifies drug possession charges:

  • Schedules I or II: Class D to Class B felony
  • Schedule III: Class B felony to Class A misdemeanor
  • Schedules IV or V: Class D to Class B felony
  • Schedule VI: Class A felony to Class A misdemeanor

The specific classification and penalties vary depending on the substance involved, the amount, and whether the accused has any prior convictions.

Here’s a look at potential prison sentences for drug charges in Arkansas:

  • Class A felonies: Six to 30 years
  • Class B felonies: Five to 20 years
  • Class C felonies: Three to 10 years
  • Class D felonies: Maximum of six years
  • Class A misdemeanors: Maximum of one year

Along with time in prison, those convicted of drug charges could pay fines ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, depending on the severity of the offense.

The Drug Charges We Handle

If you’re facing drug charges in Western Arkansas or Eastern Oklahoma, the attorneys at Gean, Gean & Gean can help. We handle cases involving:

  • Drug possession
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia
  • Drug trafficking

Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a serious felony, our attorneys are prepared to defend you from the penalties.

Why Work With Gean, Gean & Gean?

When you work with us, we look at every piece of evidence and create the best defense we can, no matter what evidence the prosecution has or doesn’t have. We’ve been around for a long time and are well-established in our area⁠ –⁠ we know the prosecutors, the courts, the judges, and how to best prepare your case against them.

Start The Fight For Freedom Today

If you’re facing drug charges, contact our firm right away. Call 479-222-1520 or message us online to schedule a free consultation.