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    Stamford Drug Distribution Lawyer

    If you have been charged with a drug distribution offense, then you are facing a serious felony. Talk to a knowledgeable Stamford drug distribution lawyer as soon as possible to start taking steps to preserve vital evidence and work toward the best possible outcome in your case. A skilled criminal defense attorney could make a critical difference in your case.

    What is the Difference between Drug Possession and Drug Distribution in Stamford Connecticut?

    Under Connecticut statutes, possession of a small quantity of drugs for personal use is treated very differently than other drug offenses. While possession is usually a misdemeanor, drug distribution crimes are serious felonies with penalties that include lengthy prison terms and enormous fines.

    These crimes, which are found under C.G.S. § 21a-277 and § 21a-278 include manufacturing, distributing, selling, prescribing, dispensing, transporting with the intent to sell or dispense, possessing with the intent to sell or dispense, offering, giving or administering controlled substances to another.

    What are the Penalties for Drug Distribution / Possession with Intent to Distribute in Stamford Connecticut?

    If you are arrested for § 21a-277, you face an unclassified felony.  If you are accused for selling or possessing with intent to sell a narcotic or hallucinogen, then you face up to fifteen years in jail and a fine of $50,000.00 for a first offense.  If it is any other controlled substance, then it is still an unclassified felony but you face up to seven years in jail and a fine of $25,000.00 for a first offense.  If you have a subsequent offense, the penalties go up exponentially.

    Is there Mandatory Jail Time for Drug Distribution / Possession with Intent to Distribute in Stamford Connecticut?

    Yes, if you are charged as a “non-drug dependent person.”  If you are arrested for § 21a-278, then you face substantial mandatory jail time.  If you are accused for selling or possessing with intent to sell a controlled substance under § 21a-278, then you face up to twenty years in jail – five years of which are mandatory and cannot be suspended or reduced upon conviction.

    How Can I Prove that I am Drug Dependent?

    If the individual is shown to be dependent on the controlled substance involved, the potential penalties are substantially decreased. In order to show such dependency, an individual must demonstrate the presence of certain factors such as:c

    • Having developed a tolerance for the substance, meaning that the same amount has a decreased effect
    • The presence of withdrawal symptoms or the taking of a similar substance to avoid such symptoms
    • Substance taken for longer period or in larger amounts than intended
    • Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempt to discontinue use of the substance
    • Excessive time spent to obtain the substance
    • Important activities are bypassed because of substance abuse
    • Substance use continues despite known side effects

    Speak with a Stamford Drug Distribution Attorney Today

    Drug laws in Connecticut are complex and the penalties are more severe than for many other categories of criminal activity. Therefore, if you have been charged with a drug distribution offense, it is crucial to act quickly to fight the charges and increase the odds of success.  Contact an experienced Stamford drug distribution lawyer who can build the best possible defense based on your situation.