Are you facing drug charges? If you are, you understand that the case against you is serious, no matter what type of drug was involved. However, involvement with certain types of drugs, such as controlled substances, can bring criminal penalties that can change the course of your life. It is in your interests to take your case seriously and pursue a strong defense strategy.
A controlled substance is a type of drug that can have a detrimental impact on a person’s life and health. Heavily regulated by the government, if a person simply possesses a controlled substance without a valid prescription, it can lead to criminal charges. They are controlled drugs because of the heavy and strict regulations in place regarding their medical use and prescription.
Levels of controlled substances
There are different levels of controlled substances, and they can impact your case in different ways. For example, criminal activity involving a Schedule I substance may bring different penalties as possession of a Schedule V substance. Scheduling of controlled substances is as follows:
- Schedule V – These are substances that come with a small amount of narcotics in them, such as prescription cough syrup that has codeine in it.
- Schedule IV – These substances have a slightly higher likelihood for abuse and addiction than Schedule V drugs, including Ativan, Valium and more.
- Schedule III – These substances are strong and have a higher chance of addiction and psychological effects. They include drugs such as Suboxone, steroids and Tylenol with codeine.
- Schedule II – These are strong drugs that can lead to addiction, misuse and psychological effects when used improperly. They include hydrocodone, methamphetamine and Percocet.
- Schedule I – These are the strongest and most tightly regulated drugs. They have a high chance of causing addiction and have no valid medical use, such as LSD, heroin and ecstasy.
Every drug case is different, but you would be wise to act immediately to start working on a unique and effective defense strategy. Tailoring your approach is a crucial component in having a plan that will allow you to confront the case against you and challenge the evidence brought by the prosecution.
If you are facing criminal charges associated with controlled substances, you do not have to face your situation alone. An assessment of your case and discussion with an experienced North Carolina defense attorney can help you see what legal options may be available.
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