Drug offenses
Washington’s Uniform Controlled Substances Act (VUCSA) is the proper name for any drug-related criminal charge. This Act allows for charges of drug possession, use and manufacturing as well as delivering or intending to deliver.
Some people mistakenly believe that Washington is a drug-friendly state because of all the media coverage about legalizing marijuana in Seattle and its “safe zones” for heroin. This is false. Drug crimes are often and aggressively prosecuted. It is not uncommon for the Prosecutor to allege “intent of delivery” because of the substantial increase in the punishment. The Prosecutor might not consider marijuana to be normal personal use.
It is important to remember that even though you may have a legal drug or narcotic in your possession, this does not mean you can use or possess it at will. You can’t have the same pain medication your friend has, even though you were prescribed it for back pain. Although marijuana is legal, there are restrictions on how and where it can be used, how it can be grown, what it can be used for, as well as how much it can be possessed. In the world of drug charges, the term “legal” can cause confusion and be dangerous.
How serious are your charges?
It is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney if you face a drug case and are curious about the severity of your case. Depending on the circumstances, your sentence, as well as any other consequences, may vary.
The drug’s type or classification
The amount of drugs
Personal use vs. intention to distribute
Sales evidence
The presence of weapons or firearms
Criminal history from the past
The Prosecutor may also seek sentence enhancements if you made, sold, or delivered drugs in or near schools, on or near school buses, in a drug-free zone, in parks, to minors, or on public transportation. This could increase the amount of your sentence and possible fines.
Some people may be eligible to receive alternatives to the VUCSA punishments. You may be eligible to participate in the Drug Court program, or a drug treatment program depending on your case. Your case is unique and will dictate the options available to you for resolving drug charges without going to trial. Due to the long prison sentences for VUCSA convictions, it is important to look at other options in most drug cases.