Montrose Drug Charges Attorney

Being charged with a drug crime can turn your life upside down. Whether it’s possession, distribution, or intent to distribute, the stakes are high. As a trusted Montrose Drug Charges Lawyer, The Martin Law Firm has extensive experience defending clients throughout Colorado. We understand the laws, the court system, and what it takes to protect your future. If you are facing a drug offense, call us at (970) 730-4354 for immediate assistance.

Drug Laws in Colorado

Colorado treats drug offenses seriously. Charges can range from minor possession to large-scale trafficking, and each carries different consequences. The law classifies controlled substances into five schedules, from Schedule I to Schedule V, based on potential abuse and accepted medical use. Schedule I drugs, like heroin and LSD, have no accepted medical use and carry the harshest penalties. Schedule II drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine, also carry serious penalties but have recognized medical uses. Lower schedules have less severe penalties, but still can impact your life.

The type of charge depends on more than just the drug itself. Officers may consider the amount of the substance, whether you had drug paraphernalia, and evidence suggesting intent to distribute. Even first-time offenses can result in criminal records, fines, probation, and jail time. In some cases, felony charges can result in decades in prison and fines reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Common Drug Offenses We Handle

We defend clients against all types of drug-related charges in Montrose. Some of the most common include:

• Drug Possession: Simply having a controlled substance on your person or under your control. Depending on the drug and amount, possession can be a misdemeanor or a felony.
• Possession With Intent to Distribute: Charges arise when police believe the drugs were meant for sale. Evidence may include scales, baggies, ledgers, cash, or multiple types of drugs.
• Distribution and Trafficking: Selling, transporting, or delivering drugs is a serious offense. Large-scale trafficking can involve state or federal charges.
• Manufacturing and Cultivation: Producing illegal substances or growing marijuana beyond legal limits can lead to felony charges. Even homegrown for personal use must comply with Colorado laws.
• Prescription Drug Fraud: Illegally obtaining prescription drugs through doctor shopping, forged prescriptions, or misrepresentation is treated seriously, especially with opioids or stimulants.
• Drug Paraphernalia Possession: Items like pipes, bongs, syringes, scales, or baggies may result in charges if they are intended for drug use. Paraphernalia charges may be minor, but can complicate other cases.

Penalties for Drug Crimes

Penalties vary widely depending on the charge, drug schedule, quantity, and whether it is a repeat offense. Common outcomes include:

• Misdemeanor Drug Charges: Up to 364 days in jail, fines, mandatory drug education or treatment programs.
• Felony Drug Charges: Prison sentences from 1 to 32 years, fines up to $1 million, supervised probation, court-ordered treatment, and possible asset forfeiture.
• Collateral Consequences: Difficulty finding jobs or housing, driver’s license suspensions, loss of professional licenses, and immigration issues for non-citizens.

Even a single conviction can have long-term effects on your career, personal life, and financial stability. Courts may also consider prior convictions, the purpose of the drug, and whether you were on probation or parole when determining penalties.

Marijuana Laws

Colorado is known for legalizing recreational marijuana, but strict rules apply. Adults 21 and older can possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow a limited number of plants for personal use. Anything beyond these limits, including sales outside licensed channels, is illegal. Large quantities or commercial sales can result in felony charges. Even giving marijuana to friends without a commercial license can be considered distribution.

Other marijuana-related offenses include underage possession, public consumption, and transporting cannabis across state lines. While the laws are more lenient than in the past, violations still carry fines, criminal records, and potential jail time. Anyone facing these charges should consult a defense attorney to protect their rights and future.

Why Hire The Martin Law Firm

Experience matters when defending drug charges. We have handled cases across the spectrum, from first-time possession to complex trafficking operations. Our lawyers understand how prosecutors build their cases and know the latest changes in Colorado drug laws.

We focus on personal attention. Every client gets direct communication, a clear explanation of legal options, and guidance on each step. We aim to protect our clients from unnecessary jail time, fines, or long-term damage to their records. Our goal is to reduce charges, challenge evidence, and fight for outcomes that allow clients to move forward with their lives.

Contact Our Drug Defense Attorney Today

Facing drug charges can be stressful and overwhelming, but early legal action can make a real difference. Contact The Martin Law Firm at (970) 730-4354. We can review your case, explain your options, and start building a defense immediately. Protect your future, your freedom, and your rights by getting professional help now.