California Drug Schedule

Drug crimes in the state are charged based on the California Health and Safety Code, which is similar to the U.S. Controlled Substance Act. Illegal drugs and other controlled substances are classified by five “schedules,” which are based on each narcotic’s potential for abuse/addiction and accepted medical use.

The following is a breakdown of the five schedules of controlled substances in California:

• Schedule I – These drugs have an extremely high potential for abuse/addiction and have no accepted medical use. Common examples include heroin, hallucinogens such as LSD, ecstasy (MDMA), and certain opiates.

• Schedule II – These drugs have a high potential for abuse/addiction and some accepted medical use. Common examples include cocaine, morphine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and oxycodone.

• Schedule III – These drugs have a moderate to low potential for abuse/addiction and accepted medical use. Common examples include anabolic steroids, Tylenol with codeine, and ketamine.

• Schedule IV – These drugs have a low potential for abuse/addiction and significant medical value. Common examples include Xanax, Ambien, Tramadol, and Soma.

• Schedule V – These drugs have the lowest potential for abuse/addiction and legal with a prescription. Common examples include buprenorphine, diphenoxylate, dihydrocodeine, and other cough suppressants.

What are the Common Types of Drug Crimes in CA

Drug crimes are charged as infractions, misdemeanors, wobblers, or felonies in California. Infractions are not punishable by jail time, misdemeanors can lead to a maximum jail sentence of one year, and felonies can result in imprisonment for at least one year. A “wobber,” is a crime that is considered either a misdemeanor or felony based on the facts and circumstances of the case.

When facing drug charges, the most important decision you may have to make is hiring the right Newport Beach criminal defenseattorney for your case. Many people who are charged with drug crimes are good people who made a mistake or battling addiction, while others are wrongly accused.

Right Choice Law handles the following types of drug crimes in Orange County:

• Possession – Simple possession is defined as having a small amount of drugs, generally for personal use. Possession is typically considered a misdemeanor, especially if you are a first-time offender.

• Possession with intent to sell – Possession with intent to sell or distribute means having enough drugs that the state believes that the purpose is to engage in drug dealing, which can result in felony charges. Other common indicators include possession of a scale, the drugs are wrapped in individual, small baggies, and possession of a large amount of cash.

• Transportation – The delivery of a drug can be punishable under state and federal laws.

• Marijuana offenses – Although recreational and medicinal cannabis is legal in California, you can face serious charges for trafficking marijuana or cultivating marijuana without a license.

• Other drug offenses – Common examples include being under the influence of drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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At Right Choice Law, our former prosecutors can investigate your case, collect evidence, and build an effective and personalized defense strategy to protect your rights and freedom throughout the legal process. We are ready to fight for you immediately. Check out our case results and client testimonials to learn how we help others facing serious charges.