A drug possession charge in Missouri can have serious consequences. Missouri is known for having some of the toughest drug laws in the country, with mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes.
This means that you could face jail or prison time even if this is your first offense and you have no other criminal history. You could also be charged with hefty fines.
Additionally, a conviction for possessing just a small amount of a drug still means that you will have a criminal record. This can have extremely negative effects on your employment and housing situations and damage your personal and professional reputations.
A drug possession conviction can mean the loss of certain rights, such as your right to own a firearm, vote or obtain certain professional licenses.
Overall, the potential damage to so many areas of your life should emphasize how important it is to put on a strong criminal defense if you are charged with drug possession.
Penalties for drug possession in Missouri
In Missouri, the penalties for a drug possession crime depend on the type and amount of drug found on you.
Possession of any amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor. However, it still comes with a potential penalty of one-year in prison and a $2,000 fine.
Missouri does have a medical marijuana program, which allows qualifying people with a medical marijuana card to possess certain amounts of marijuana without facing any criminal charges or penalties.
If you participate in the medical marijuana program, you should carry your medical marijuana card with you if you are stopped and detained for suspicion of drug possession. You should also never carry any amount of marijuana with you above the legal limit.
Possession of controlled substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine or heroin are felonies. Potential penalties include a fine of up to $10,000 and seven years in prison.
No matter what type of drug possession charge you face, the penalties vary depending on certain factors, such as any past criminal history and the specific facts of the case.
Do you qualify for a drug court program?
Developing a defense strategy through examining the facts and circumstances of your case can help you determine if you can beat the drug possession charges. If it appears that you cannot, the best option might be to see if you are eligible for alternative sentencing through a drug court program.
Missouri’s drug court programs can help first-time offenders avoid jail or prison time for a drug possession offense.
You must meet certain criteria to participate in a drug court program. The programs generally involve activities including regular drug testing, individual and group counseling and participation in drug court.
In addition to avoiding prison time, a drug court program can prevent you from dealing with some of the serious effects of a drug possession conviction.
