Drug Offenses

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has established harsh penalties for drug offenses. Sometimes, you may face mandatory minimum penalties if convicted of a drug offense. Additionally, penalties frequently include a mandatory driver's license suspension.

Conviction of a drug-related offense may also impact many other areas of your life, including your employment and ability to obtain insurance. It is important to hire an attorney experienced in handling drug offense cases in order to minimize the damage caused by your charges.

The Law Offices of Saidis, Sullivan & Rogers handle drug offense cases involving:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Oxycontin
• LSD
• Ecstasy/MDMA
• Heroin

Pennsylvania Marijuana Possession Laws

Courts in Pennsylvania may impose the following penalties for possession of marijuana:

• Misdemeanor charges of up to one month in jail and a $500 fine for possession of 30 grams or less
• Misdemeanor charges of up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine for possession of more than 30 grams
• Mandatory six month driver's license suspension

You could also be charged with felony possession with intent to distribute depending on the circumstances of your case. The penalties for this charge are more severe. With each subsequent marijuana offense, your penalties will increase.

Pennsylvania Drug Possession Laws

Pennsylvania imposes the following penalties for possession of other controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, LSD, Ecstasy/MDMA, methamphetamine, and certain prescription drugs. Generally, for a first offense, the penalty could include up to one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine. The penalties increase for each subsequent conviction.

Pennsylvania Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Courts in Pennsylvania may impose the following penalties for possession of drug paraphernalia:

• Up to one year in jail
• Maximum $2,500 fine

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program

The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) Program may be available to first time offenders. The program enables you to avoid potential jail time and earn a clean record. The ARD Program may be offered to individuals charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Participation in the program is left to the discretion of the District Attorney.

ARD Program requirements include:

• Drug and alcohol evaluation and treatment if recommended
• Community service
• Probation supervision

Upon completion of the program, your charges will be dismissed and your record will be expunged. Generally, the ARD Program is only offered to first time offenders.

If you have been charged with a drug offense, please contact the criminal defense attorneys at Saidis, Sullivan & Rogers today to schedule a consultation. We have offices in Camp Hill, Carlisle, West Shore, Lemoyne, Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Cumberland County and Central Pennsylvania.