If you live in Virginia, there are drug laws that could result in significant consequences if you’re found guilty. Cocaine is one of the drugs that can carry punishments that include fines or time in jail, depending on how the drug is used or handled.
Possession
If you are found to be in possession of any amount of cocaine or other types of Schedule I or II drugs, then you have broken a law in the state unless you have a prescription for certain medications. A criminal defense that can sometimes be used is that the cocaine found in your possession is not yours. Proving that the drugs belonged to someone else could work in your favor. In many situations, if you’re in possession of cocaine or a Schedule I or II drug, you could be convicted of a Class 5 felony. This could result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
Selling and distributing
Selling or distributing cocaine is often classified as a felony. If it’s your first offense, then you could be sentenced to between five and 40 years in prison. A second offense could result in spending five years to the rest of your life in prison. In comparison, subsequent offenses are likely to result in a mandatory sentence of at least 10 years and possibly life in prison, depending on your criminal background and the circumstances surrounding the selling or distribution of the drug.
While there are common punishments for cocaine possession, there can be complications and harsh sentences for distributing or manufacturing the drug. A strategy before dealing with the charges and possible punishments can be beneficial to try to decrease time spent in jail.
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