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Missouri Drug Laws

There has been considerable shift in the public perception of the way drug crimes are viewed by everyday people. However, Missouri drug laws can still include long jail sentences and large fines for those charged with simply possessing a controlled substance – even for a first offense.

Missouri drug laws can still include long jail sentences and large fines for those charged with simply possessing a controlled substance – even for a first offense.

Controlled substances include “street” drugs like cocaine (powder), cocaine base (crack), heroin and methamphetamine.  It also includes many prescription drugs, if they are possessed without a prescription. Marijuana possession also can be a felony if you possess more than 35 grams. So called “synthetic” drugs like “K2” and “bath salts” are also illegal under Missouri drug laws.

The severity of the charges – and the prison sentences – increase substantially if you are charged with distribution of a controlled substance or even possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance. These harsh sentences can be made even longer depending on a person’s prior criminal history. For example: a person charged with a felony possession of a controlled substance in the State of Missouri faces up to seven years in prison in addition to a fine of up to $5,000. If you have a prior felony drug conviction, you face up to 15 years in prison. If you are accused of selling a controlled substance you face five to 15 years in prison – which may increase to a life sentence if you have a prior drug case on your record. Prior offenses also may subject you to mandatory minimum sentences starting at 10 years. You must serve these sentences without option for probation or parole.

There are options available like St. Louis drug court that can help you address substance abuse issues, while also avoiding serving time in jail. This program isn’t available to everyone. But, for those who qualify, it can be a valuable tool in helping you personally, as well as with the criminal charges against you.

With drug charges, your freedom is at stake. You need an attorney who understands the way these cases are approached by the prosecutor and how to challenge the evidence and protect your rights. You need a lawyer who can help you navigate the system and understands all the options available to you like St. Louis drug court (City and County). Martin Minnigerode has tried drug cases in front of juries involving cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine), heroin, methamphetamines, marijuana, and many other drugs. If you or a loved one is facing a charge under Missouri drug laws call The Law Office of Martin Minnigerode, LLC today at 314-266-4686.

Missouri drug laws include charges for:

  • Trafficking drugs
  • Possession of a controlled Substance
  • Possession of marijuana under 35 grams
  • Possession with intent to distribute
  • Sale of a controlled substance
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia
  • Possession of items used to create or manufacture a controlled substance