It can be a frightening experience for individuals facing drug charges in Philadelphia and other parts of Pennsylvania. There are different types of drug charges in PA, and the penalties depend on factors, including, but not limited to, type of drug and amount of drug. In addition, individuals may face federal drug charges. This article series will discuss the difference between PA state drug charges and federal drug charges. If you‘ve been arrested for a drug crime in PA, it is best to talk to a Philadelphia criminal lawyer who can explain what type of drug charges you are facing.
Part I of this article will discuss the “Schedules” of drugs, and part II of this article series will discuss the penalties for the drugs in the schedules.
Related: Federal Drug Charges in Philadelphia – Possession of a Controlled Substance
TYPE OF DRUGS – “SCHEDULES” OF DRUGS
Both Pennsylvania and federal law categorize drugs into different schedules which are essentially the same. Both have five “Schedules” of drugs. The most dangerous drugs are in Schedule I, and the least serious drugs are in Schedule V. See Federal Drug Schedule per 21 U.S.C. 812 – Schedules of controlled substances & PA Drug Schedule per 28 Pa. Code § 25.72. Schedules of controlled substances.
Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and are not currently accepted for medical use in the United States. Use of these drugs is generally considered unsafe, even under medical supervision. Examples of Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD.
Schedule II drugs also have a high potential for abuse. Unlike Schedule I drugs, they are currently accepted for medical use in the United States or are currently accepted for medical use with severe restrictions. Abuse of these drugs may lead to severe psychic or physical dependence. Examples of Schedule II drugs include cocaine, crystal meth and oxycodone.
Schedule III drugs have a potential for abuse less than the substances listed in Schedules I and II. They are well documented and currently accepted for medical use in the United States, and abuse may lead to moderate or low physical dependence. Examples are anabolic steroids and ketamine.
Schedule IV drugs have a low potential for abuse relative to substances in Schedule III. They are currently accepted for medical use in the United States and have limited physical or psychological dependence relative to the substances listed in Schedule III. Examples are xanax, valium, and klonopin.
Schedule V drugs have a low potential for abuse relative to the substances listed in Schedule IV. They are currently accepted for medical use in the United States and have limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the substances listed in Schedule IV. An example of Schedule V drug may be cough suppressants that have certain amounts of codeine.
Click here read part II of this article which discusses the penalties individuals may face if charged and convicted of PA and/or federal drug crimes.
FIGHTING PA OR FEDERAL DRUG CHARGES IN PHILADELPHIA –FREE CONSULTATIONS FROM A PHILADELPHIA CRIMINAL LAWYER
If you or a loved one was arrested for a state or federal drug related charge in Philadelphia or other parts of PA, please call David S. Nenner, a highly experienced Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer who has handled many state and federal drug cases. Mr. Nenner offers FREE consultations. (215) 515-0042
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David S. Nenner, Esq. has been selected to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list from 2015-2016. Each year no more than 5% of the nominated lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor.
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