What You Should Know About Indiana’s Drug Schedules

If you live in Indiana, it is important to be aware of the state’s Drug Schedules. Drug possession and trafficking are serious crimes which can carry severe penalties in Indiana. Drug Schedules classify controlled substances into different categories based on their potential for abuse and medical value. Knowing which drugs fall under each schedule can help you stay informed about drug laws in your state and protect yourself from legal trouble. In this blog post, we will discuss Indiana’s Drug Schedules and what they mean for drug possession cases.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Drug Charge Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana.
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Drug Charge Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana.

Facts About Drug Scheduling in Indiana

Drug use, possession, or trafficking is illegal in Indiana. The state’s Drug Schedules are determined by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and state law. Schedules are I through V, with schedule 5 drugs being the least potential for abuse.

Schedule I Drugs

Drugs in Schedule I have no medical value, a high potential for abuse, and can lead to addiction. These drugs include heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and marijuana. Possession of these drugs can result in a Level 5 felony with up to six years in prison and fines up to 10,000 dollars.

Schedule II Drugs

Drugs in Schedule II have a lower potential for abuse and are sometimes used in medical treatments such as pain relief. These drugs include codeine, morphine, opium, cocaine, methamphetamine, and hydrocodone. Possession of these drugs can result in a Level 6 felony with up to two-and-a-half years in prison and fines up to 10,000 dollars.

Schedule III Drugs

Schedule III drugs have a relatively low potential for abuse and are sometimes used for medical treatments such as pain relief. These drugs include ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone, and some depressants. Possession of these drugs can result in a Level 6 felony with up to two-and-a-half years in prison and fines up to 10,000 dollars.

Schedule IV Drugs

Schedule IV drugs have an even lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs and are also sometimes used for medical treatments such as pain relief. These drugs include Xanax, Valium, Ambien, and restoril. Possession of these drugs can result in a Level 6 felony with up to two-and-a-half years in prison and fines up to 10,000 dollars.

Schedule V Drugs

Lastly, Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and are used medically often as cough medicines. These drugs include some anti-seizure medications and some anti-nausea medications. Possession of these drugs can result in a Class A misdemeanor with up to one year in prison and fines up to 5,000 dollars.

Facing Drug Charges in Indiana?

Dealing with legal issues is never easy, yet even more so when the matter involves drug-related offenses. If you have been charged and need assistance from a professional, then enlist an experienced criminal defense attorney. These lawyers have experience and knowledge of the court proceedings for such matters, allowing them to effectively represent defendants like yourself no matter what situation you’re in. They will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit throughout and after the process. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis to ensure that you receive fair treatment and obtain the best possible conclusion to your case.

If you are arrested for a drug crime in Indiana, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed drug defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can start working on your case TODAY.

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The Penalties for Getting Caught With Marijuana in Indiana

Indianapolis Drug Crime Lawyer 317-636-7514

Indianapolis Drug Crime Lawyer 317-636-7514

Although there has been a rising trend of legalizing certain forms of marijuana possession, use, and cultivation throughout the country, Indiana is not a state that has joined in with the rest. Marijuana laws are still in full-effect, which means the possession, use, and cultivation of marijuana is still very-much illegal in all senses. If you are caught breaking any drug possession laws for marijuana, you are bound to face penalties. Continue reading to learn what you can expect if you are facing marijuana possession charges in Indiana.

Indiana Marijuana Laws

Under Indiana criminal law, marijuana also includes hash and hash oil. The legal ramifications you face depend on the amount of marijuana you are caught with, and your intended use. Penalties are harsher for those who intend to sell or distribute marijuana, rather than those who only intend to use it for personal use. Then there are several enhancements that can increase the penalties you face for possession of marijuana. Common enhancements factored into drug possession penalties include priors, manufacturing, within 500 feet of school grounds or school bus, in the presence of children, dealing to minors, and more. If any of these factors are true of your crime, penalties will likely be more severe.

Under 30 Grams of Marijuana =

‣ Class A Misdemeanor
‣ Up to 1 Year in Jail
‣ Up to $5,000 in Fines

Over 30 Grams of Marijuana =

‣ Level 6 Felony
‣ Up to 3 Years in Prison
‣ Up to $10,000 in Fines

Enhancements and Conditional Discharges

Indianapolis Drug Crime Lawyer 317-636-7514

Indianapolis Drug Crime Lawyer 317-636-7514

If certain enhancements apply, including intent to sell and distribute, charges can be increased to Level 5 felonies, which are punishable by up to 8 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. If a person is caught for the first time with marijuana, they may be eligible for “conditional discharge”, which is basically a “free pass” on a marijuana charge. Upon conditional discharge, an offender is usually ordered to perform other forms of penalties, including supervised probation, random drug screening, community service, and fines.

Marijuana charges are not simple. They vary from case to case, and can be quite complex. For this reason, it is vital to hire an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer if you are facing marijuana charges in Indiana. They have the knowledge and resources necessary to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer Indianapolis IN

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you are facing drug charges in Indiana. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. Our criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies for defense. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule yours, today.