Drug crimes involving cocaine come with serious consequences
In Colorado and elsewhere, drug crimes can result in serious consequences. The potential punishments for those involving cocaine, in particular, can be extremely substantial. If you are facing cocaine-related drug charges, you do have the right to employ a criminal defense team to help you fight your case in court.
Compared to other states, cocaine abuse in Colorado is relatively high. In an effort to curb the usage, manufacturing and selling of this drug, the penalties for cocaine-related drug crimes are quite severe.
What are the penalties for cocaine-related drug crimes?
The penalties vary based on the charges against you. Some examples include:
- Sale of cocaine: felony charge, up to 32 years imprisonment and up to a $1 million fine
- Simple possession: felony charge, 1 year prison sentence and a $500.00 fine
- Use of cocaine: misdemeanor charge, up to 1 year in prison and up to $1000 in fines
If convicted, penalty severity will vary based on the amount of cocaine in one’s possession at the time of his or her arrest.
Is there any way to avoid jail or prison time if convicted?
Colorado does have drug courts. First or even second-time offenders may have their cases moved to a drug court in order to take part in drug rehabilitation rather than face imprisonment. Your legal counsel can provide further information about this topic.
Do state or federal laws apply to drug crimes involving cocaine?
In cocaine cases, both may apply. Federal penalties, if applied are far more severe than those handed down at the state level.
What defense strategies can be used when fighting cocaine drug charges?
Thankfully, if you are facing a cocaine-related drug charge, there are various defense strategies that may work to either achieve a dismissal of charges, or help minimize any potential consequences if the prosecuting attorney obtains a conviction. These include:
- Showing factual errors in the case
- Proving lack of intent
- Showing forced intoxication
- Providing proof of coercion or duress
- Finding police procedural errors
At the end of the day, fighting drug charges is not an easy task, especially when those charges involve cocaine. This is not something you have to do alone, though. With the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can make informed decisions regarding your case and pursue the legal course that will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
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