Drug Crime Lawyer | Bowling Green, KY | Law Office of Dwight Burton

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In the state of Kentucky, recent changes have been made to the drug crime laws, and you should learn about them if you are facing an arrest for allegedly committing a drug crime. The Kentucky Legislature’s drug bill, H.B. 463, was enacted on June 8, 2011. This law substantially changed the drug crime penalties throughout the state. The primary change it made was to reduce the drug offense sentences for many misdemeanor drug crimes.

Drug possession is a common type of drug crime. Individuals who are caught with any type of illegal controlled substance in their possession can be charged with this offense. Other common types of drug crimes that can result in serious repercussions upon conviction include:

Trafficking
Manufacturing
Cultivation
Prescription drug fraud
Intent to sell

Whether you were charged with a low-level marijuana offense or a serious felony drug charge, you can schedule a private consultation at the Law Office of Dwight Burton, to discuss your case and develop a plan to protect your rights.

How do drug charges vary based on the type of drug involved?
The law classifies drugs into “schedules,” with Schedule I drugs having the highest potential for abuse with no accepted medical use (like heroin). On the other end of the spectrum, Schedule V drugs are considered least likely to be abused and have accepted medical uses (like cough medicines with low levels of codeine). Generally, charges for Schedule I and II drugs are more severe than those for lower schedules. The amount of the drug you’re caught with also plays a big role in how serious the charges are.
What are the differences between drug possession, possession with intent to distribute and trafficking?
Drug possession means you’re caught with drugs, but it’s believed that they’re just for your own use. Possession with intent to distribute is when you have drugs and there are factors suggesting that you’re planning to sell them, like when you have a larger quantity of drugs and/or drug paraphernalia such as scales and baggies. Trafficking generally involves moving high quantities of drugs.

The key differences between these three offenses are the amount of drugs in your possession and what it looks like you planned to do with them. Each successive level of offense carries increasingly serious charges and harsher penalties.
Do penalties for drug possession increase if I’m convicted of repeat offenses?
Yes, if you’re convicted of drug possession multiple times, the penalties in Kentucky tend to get tougher. This could mean longer jail time, bigger fines or both. Many drug offenses in Kentucky are charged as felonies. A person with numerous felony convictions could be labeled a “persistent felony offender” and face significantly harsher penalties.

Attorney Burton brings more than 15 years of experience to each case, including experience working as a public defender for two years prior to founding the Law Office of Dwight Burton, PLLC.

We offer case evaluations that can either be conducted over the phone or in person; these consultations are always with attorney Burton, not a paralegal. With the high level of personal attention that he provides, you can look to us for dedicated legal guidance. Mr. Burton can help you handle your case in the most appropriate manner for your specific issue.

Call 270-904-1087 or contact us at your earliest convenience to begin building your defense.

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Drug Crimes

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Common Questions (And Answers) About Drug Crimes In Kentucky

How do drug charges vary based on the type of drug involved?

What are the differences between drug possession, possession with intent to distribute and trafficking?

Do penalties for drug possession increase if I’m convicted of repeat offenses?

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