Drug Possession Lawyer Worcester
Drug Crimes
In the State of Massachusetts, if you have been charged with a drug offense, it is vital that you speak with a qualified personal attorney. While the state decriminalized ¾ of an ounce or less for marijuana possession, the state still has strict penalties. Attorney Jillian N. Celozzi is an experienced trial attorney representing clients who are charged with a drug crime. As a former prosecutor with the Worcester District Attorney’s Office, she knows how to diligently fight for her clients. If you have been charged with a drug crime, contact her today for a Free Consultation.
Class of Drugs
Massachusetts divided controlled substances into groups or “classes” of drugs. Many different substances are referred to in each class. Penalties for each class varies and depends on many factors, such as, if you are found guilty of drug possession, drug possession with the intent to distribute, or distribution (trafficking).
In Massachusetts, drugs are divided into five classes:
Class A – Many narcotics are included in this class, such as morphine, heroin, ecstasy, methamphetamine, and ketamine (Special K). Class A substances are considered the most dangerous and potent drugs.
Class B – Included in this class are other narcotics, such as oxycontin, oxycodone, fentanyl, opium, LSD, PCP, and cocaine.
Class C – Narcotics that are considered less severe are included in this class, such as Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, and Vicodin (Hydrocodone). Also included in Class C are milder hallucinogens, such as mescaline and psilocybin magic mushrooms.
Class D – Hashish and marijuana are included in this class. In Massachusetts, it is legal to possess under 30 grams of marijuana (about ¾ an ounce). Laws regarding marijuana are expected to change again in the future.
Class E – Substances in Class E are considered less powerful and include some prescription drugs not included in one of the four other classes.
Often, those charged with a drug crime suffer from an addiction. In cases such as these, having a knowledgeable drug crime lawyer is crucial. Instead of incarceration, Attorney Jillian Celozzi will advocate for you on your behalf for treatment and rehabilitation. Specifically, for those who suffer from addiction, drug courts are available in many district courts in the State of Massachusetts.
Mandatory Minimum Sentence
In certain situations, such as school zone violations and trafficking, mandatory minimum sentences are imposed in Massachusetts.
In school zone violations, even for a first-time offender, the mandatory minimum sentence imposed is no less than two years of jail time. At least half of the sentence must be served before you are eligible for parole.
Mandatory minimum sentences are imposed in Massachusetts when you are convicted of trafficking drugs in certain quantities. Penalties for drug trafficking can be very severe when the substances meet statutory “trafficking” weight.
Consult a Reputable Massachusetts Criminal Lawyer
If you have been charged with a drug crime, Attorney Celozzi has the experience needed to build the strongest defense possible. As a knowledgeable trial attorney, she is dedicated to working to get you the best possible outcome. Contact the drug possession lawyer in Worcester County at 508-826-0966.