Pennsylvania Opiate Laws

The Top 10 Things NOT To Do If You're Arrested

Opiate laws in Pennsylvania are very difficult to navigate. Sometimes the police try to criminalize pain management. Sometimes it’s about addiction. Other times it’s about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. One thing is certain. If the police catch you with Heroin, Fentanyl or Carfentayl (Carfentanil) they will try to wreck you. Even i

If you’ve been charged with possession, selling (PWI) or trafficking of an opiate like Heroin, Fentanyl, Carfentayl (Carfentanil) the stakes are high. There are also steep penalties for possession of common prescription opiates such as Morphine, Hydrocodone, or Oxycodone. Even the most minor drug possession conviction can result in heavy fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. In light of the current Opioid epidemic in Pennsylvania, cops are on high alert for heroin. They are increasing enforcement and cracking down. Likewise, judges want “to send a message” that heroin dealers will be punished severely.

The government will likely try to make it look like you are a big time Kingpin. A lot of times they use the testimony of unreliable snitches. Snitches will say anything about you to save their own skin. One of our strategies is working to get the evidence suppressed by examining whether the police followed the proper procedures during their investigation. We know how to fight these cases. We will work hard to protect your rights.

When selecting which attorney to hire, please consider:

  • Can you call anytime and talk to a live person?
  • Do they offer payment plans with no credit checks?
  • Will your attorney be attentive and explain what’s going on?

At The McShane Firm, we answer yes to all of these questions. We strive to provide you with a great customer service experience during this tough time.

You are not a drug dealer or a junkie

We will help

Opiate -laws-PA
Opiate -laws-PA

The skilled attorneys of The McShane Firm have the aggressive courtroom skills you need to help reduce or beat your charges. With our advanced scientific training, we can defend you against all drug charges, including:

  • Opiate Possession
  • Opiate Sale or Distribution
  • Variants of Opiates
    • Schedule I opiates such as Heroin
    • Schedule II opiates such as Morphine, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Fentanyl, Carfentayl (Carfentanil)
    • Schedule III opiates including compounds containing not more than 1.8 grams of codeine or dihydrocodeine per 100 millilitres

All of the attorneys at The McShane Firm have specialized training in the science behind forensic drug analysis and identification

Contact us today. It’s a free, no obligation consultation. We’ll discuss your legal options. We help you fight for your rights and your freedom.

 

What is The McShane Difference?

  • We take time to understand your personal needs and goals. Then we cater our legal strategy to fit you.
  • We care about you. We listen and return phone calls. We will take time to explain things so you are not left anxious in the dark.
  • We will make this as easy as possible. We will try to minimize the number of times you have to be in court which means less disruption of your work and family life.

Does this sound like what you are looking for in an attorney? If yes, then take the next step and call (717) 657-3900.

Pennsylvania Opiate Penalties

In the State of Pennsylvania, it is illegal to possess or distribute controlled substances. Many opiates are either Schedule I, II, or III drugs. It is also illegal to cultivate illegal substances and possess or distribute drug-related paraphernalia.

The heavy fines, possible jail time, and permanent criminal record that come with a drug possession conviction can complicate your life for years to come. That’s why it’s important to have an aggressive defense attorney. We have more training than the police.

Sentencing for opiate laws convictions vary greatly depending on the type of drug and how much was found in your possession. Below is an overview of the current maximum penalties for opiate charges in PA.

Opiate Penalties Overview

Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule I or II – First Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Fifteen Years
Maximum Fine:
$250,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule I or II – Subsequent Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Thirty Years
Maximum Fine:
$500,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule III – First Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Five Years
Maximum Fine:
$15,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule III – Subsequent Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Ten Years
Maximum Fine:
$30,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule IV – First Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Three Years
Maximum Fine:
$10,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule IV – Subsequent Offense
Grade:
Felony
Maximum Prison:
Six Years
Maximum Fine:
$20,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule V – First Offense
Grade:
Misdemeanor
Maximum Prison:
1 Year
Maximum Fine:
$5,000
Charge:
Possession with Intent to Deliver Schedule V – Subsequent Offense
Grade:
Misdemeanor
Maximum Prison:
Two Years
Maximum Fine:
$10,000
Charge:
Simple Possession – First Offense
Grade:
Misdemeanor
Maximum Prison:
One Year
Maximum Fine:
$5,000
Charge:
Simple Possession – Second or Subsequent Offense
Grade:
Misdemeanor
Maximum Prison:
Three Years
Maximum Fine:
$25,000
*Prior convictions, amount of heroin possessed or sale to a minor can incur more severe penalties

Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:

  • Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
  • Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
  • Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
  • Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.

This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.

Know Your Rights

As you can see, opiate laws are amazingly harsh. Worse than crack cocaine. even the most minor opiate charge can put your future in jeopardy. But remember: being accused of a crime is not the same as being convicted. You have options. Get The Science Attorneys on your side. You can get The McShane Firm.