What Are The Penalties For Possession Of Prescription Drugs In Washington?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Possession of any controlled substance that was not obtained via a legitimate prescription or order from an authorized person in the performance of their profession may result in a Class C Felony charge, with the following maximum penalties: 5 years in prison and/or . $10,000 fine .

What happens if you get caught with prescription drugs?

The maximum penalty you could receive for possession of a ‘small quantity’ of drugs is up to 2 years imprisonment and/ or a fine of up to $2,200. Magistrates will often be lenient, and it’s rare to be given the maximum penalty.

How long do you go to jail for drug possession?

Incarceration. Jail or prison time is also possible when a person is convicted of possession of a controlled substance. Jail sentences range widely depending on the crime charged, the type of drugs involved, and the state’s laws, but can range from a few days or weeks to 10 years or more in prison .

What is considered a controlled substance in Washington state?

Controlled Substances in Washington

Controlled substances include heroin, oxycodone, methamphetamine, Oxycontin, and cocaine , among others. Although Washington allows for the legal use of marijuana both medically and recreationally, there still are limits.

What is the penalty for sharing prescription drugs?

People sharing prescription drugs may be subject to penalties and fines. Penalties can go up to five years in prison , and fines can reach into the thousands of dollars. Depending on the case, you may also be held legally responsible for any adverse effects suffered by the person who shared your prescription.

Do prescription drugs have to be in original containers?

The TSA does not require you to have your medication in its original prescription bottle , so traveling with a pill case does not violate any rules. You will also generally not have to tell the officers about your medication unless it is a liquid.

What happens if police find drugs in your house?

When drugs are found in your house or car, it’s likely you’re going to get charged . Unless the police have another suspect, you’re the one who will be charged with possession. However, that doesn’t mean you’re unable to get acquitted or have your case dismissed.

What is the mandatory minimum sentence for drugs in the US?

Substance Minimum Maximum Simple possession of a controlled substance with 1 prior conviction 15 days 2 years Simple possession of a controlled substance with 2 or more priors 90 days 3 years Drug kingpin 20 years life repeat offender 30 years life

What amount of drugs is considered trafficking?

Drug Trafficking Amount

For example, someone found in possession of 1 or more grams of LSD (lysergic acid diethylmide), 5 or more grams of crack cocaine, 500 or more grams of powdered cocaine, or 100 or more grams of heroin will face drug trafficking charges.

How long is a prescription valid in Washington state?

306. (d) A prescription for a substance included in Schedule II may not be refilled. A prescription for a substance included in Schedule II may not be filled more than six months after the date the prescription was issued .

Is drug possession a felony?

In many cases, drug possession is a felony . However, in some instances, it is charged as a misdemeanor. If the offense is a felony, there are varying degrees it can be charged, which affect the penalties you could face.

What are the new drug laws in Washington?

The new law reclassifies possession of controlled substances, including cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine , as a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail. The previous law, before being struck down by the court, had made it a felony.

Can you get in trouble for sharing prescription drugs?

If someone other than the person named on the prescription buys or uses the drugs, it is considered illegal and a crime . In short, consumption or possession of any prescribed drugs not prescribed to you is illegal.

Is it legal to share prescription drugs?

Even though it may seem harmless to share prescription drugs with a friend or family member, doing so involves many risks with potentially dangerous consequences. It’s Illegal : Federal and state law prohibits the sharing of prescription drugs that are controlled substances.

Can you go to jail for taking prescription drugs?

Those caught illegally possessing prescription drugs are likely to face misdemeanor or felony charges carrying penalties of arrest, prosecution, imprisonment, a life-long criminal record, court-ordered drug treatment and monitoring conditions, driver’s license suspension and excessive court fines.

What are the rules for taking prescription drugs on airplane?

You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It’s highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.