Simple possession offenses account for a significant majority of drug crimes in Ohio. Depending on the amount allegedly possessed, these crimes can be felony offenses that carry steep consequences. Possession of larger amounts of a controlled substance can potentially lead to drug trafficking charges, but alleged possession of even seemingly minuscule amounts of an illegal drug can result in serious penalties. Any conviction for a drug-related offense can cause significant long-term hardships for alleged offenders.
Ohio Drug Charges vary based on the severity of the crime, use of weapon, amount of substance, and whether or not the offense occurred near schools or minors. The following sentencing guidelines are used for Ohio drug charges:
- Minor Misdemeanor Fines up to $150
- Misdemeanor of the Fourth Degree Up to 30 days in jail and fines not exceeding $250
- Misdemeanor of the Third Degree Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500
- Misdemeanor of the Second Degree Up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $750
- Misdemeanor of the First Degree Up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000
- Felony of the Fifth Degree Up to 12 months of prison time and fines up to $2,500
- Felony of the Fourth Degree Up to 18 months of prison time and fines up to $5,000
- Felony of the Third Degree Up to 3 years in prison and fines up to $10,000 and up to 5 years on special F3’s
- Felony of the Second Degree Up to 8 years in prison and fines up to $15,000
- Felony of the First Degree Up to 11 years in prison and fines up to $20,000
* Additional Major Drug Offender (“MDO”) Specification may be added to increase sentencing based on the weight of illegal substance
* Any MDO specification is deemed mandatory time upon conviction.
* Additional Major Drug Offender (“MDO”) Specification may be added to increase sentencing based on the weight of illegal substance
* Any MDO specification is deemed mandatory time upon conviction.
The criminal defense attorneys. The Wieczorek Law Firm defends clients throughout Ohio against drug crimes. Contact us 24/7 for a free review of your case. Time is not on your side and you need an attorney you can trust to utilizing every defense possible to receive the best outcome.