Charged with a Drug Crime in CT
Nov 13, 2023

In Connecticut, drug crimes such as possession, intent to distribute, or any other offense call for serious penalties which can include incarceration, very high fines, and sometimes even life sentences.

If you have been accused of a drug crime, you need an attorney with the experience and skills to fight fiercely on your behalf.

Get the strong legal defense you need. Contact Moynahan Law Firm for a free case evaluation.

DON’T FACE DRUG CRIME ACCUSATIONS IN CT WITHOUT AN EXPERIENCE LAWYER

  • Possession of marijuana, hallucinogens, heroin, and narcotics such as cocaine and crack cocaine
  • Possession with intent to sell
  • Possession near a prohibited place, such as a school


Connecticut has many laws pertaining to possessing and selling controlled substances. Those laws are complex, and serious. we can help you understand what you are facing and prepare a solid defense for your case.

DEFENSES AGAINST DRUG CHARGES IN CT:

  • Unlawful search and seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights by not conducting a lawful search and seizure, any evidence seized is inadmissible in court.
  • Lack of possession: There are times when more than one person is present at the arrest. For example, a number of people may have been in the same apartment unit. When this is the case, the prosecution often has a difficult time proving who the drugs belonged to.
  • Miranda rights violation: Law enforcement must read anyone charged with a crime the Miranda warning and uphold the rights provided within it. When they fail to do either of those things, evidence can be thrown out and the charges may be dropped.
  • Presence of drugs: When someone is charged with a drug crime, the prosecution must show the actual drugs a person was found in possession of, or was attempting to sell. If the prosecution no longer has the drugs, typically the charges are thrown out.
  • Drug dependency: In Connecticut, being considered a drug dependent person is an effective defense to drug crimes. If you are struggling with drug dependency, I can explain your options for using this as a defense. 


While all of these provide effective defenses to drug crimes in Connecticut, no one should ever try to argue them alone. Choosing a qualified Connecticut drug lawyer is the best defense for a successful outcome.


PENALTIES FOR DRUG CRIMES IN CT:

Below are some of the most common drug crimes and possible sentencing options for a first possession offense.


  • Possession of heroin, cocaine, or crack: Maximum of seven years in prison and a maximum $50,000 fine
  • Possession of less than 4 ounces of marijuana: Maximum of one year in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine
  • Possession of more than 4 ounces of marijuana: Maximum of five years in prison and a maximum $2,000 fine
  • Possession of methamphetamine: Maximum of one year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000
  • Possession of hallucinogenic, any amount: Maximum of five years in prison and a maximum fine of $2,000


Drug offenses involving an intent to sell have much stricter penalties. Possible sentencing for a first offense of the most common intent to sell offenses are:

  • Sale of heroin, cocaine, or crack cocaine, any amount, by a drug-dependent person: Maximum of 15 years in prison and a maximum $50,000 fine
  • Sale of heroin, cocaine, or crack cocaine, any amount, by a non-drug dependent person: Five to 20 years in prison
  • Sale of heroin, at least 1 ounce: Five to 20 years in prison
  • Sale of cocaine or crack cocaine, minimum 0.5 ounce: Five to 20 years in prison
  • Possession of less than 1 kilogram of marijuana with intent to sell: Maximum of seven years in prison
  • Possession of more than 1 kilogram of marijuana with intent to sell: Five to 20 years in prison

FIRST STEPS WHEN ARRESTED FOR A DRUG OFFENSE IN CT

It’s important not to resist arrest but don’t say anything about the alleged offense or any roles you had or didn’t have. Saying anything to the police can be used against you later and can greatly damage your case. If you have been arrested contact us and we will advocate. Moynahan Law will speak for you and decide when and if its appropriate for you to engage directly with the police with proper representation.


If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug crime, contact us to schedule your free consultation.


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