Whenever you have illegal drugs in your possession, there is a chance to be arrested and charged. This is true in Massachusetts, with the exception of possession of small amounts of marijuana. Massachusetts legalized marijuana and decriminalized possession of marijuana for possession of less than one ounce; This is considered a civil summons and no criminal charges will be laid. Despite the legality of the drug, if you possess more than one ounce, you can be charged with possession in Massachusetts. Possession of controlled substances in Massachusetts under M.G.L., Chapter 94C, Section 34 carries severe penalties for knowingly or intentionally possessing illicit substances such as heroin, cocaine, oxycodone (Oxycontin), ecstasy and marijuana. Drug possession is punishable by up to one year in prison or a $1,000 fine. However, possession of heroin, a Class A substance, carries a much harsher penalty. In addition, recent legislative changes in Massachusetts have decriminalized less than an ounce of marijuana, lifted automatic license suspensions for drug-related offenses, and made it easier for those who have committed a drug-related crime. If there have already been arrests and convictions, your lawyer needs to know how to work within the system to minimize charges. Stephen Neyman is investigating the arrest to ensure there were no violations of your constitutional rights. Was the search of your property or person carried out lawfully and appropriately? Did the police follow all the correct rules and guidelines? Or were your rights trampled underfoot in their eagerness to make an arrest? Was unnecessary force used during the arrest? Have other people accused you of a crime to minimize their own punishment? List of Massachusetts Drug Disposal Dispensaries In the Commonwealth, knowingly possessing a controlled substance is punishable by up to one (1) year in prison or a fine of up to one (1) year in prison or a fine of up to one thousand ($1,000) of both.

This includes possession of cocaine and various other illicit substances. Class C substances in Massachusetts include narcotics, which are considered less serious. These are often prescription drugs such as Klonopin, Valium, Vicodin (hydrocodone) and Ativan. Milder hallucinogens such as psilocybin magic mushrooms and mescaline are included. Massachusetts law prohibits anyone from knowingly or intentionally possessing a controlled substance unless it was obtained from a valid prescription. To be guilty of the crime, you can either be in possession of the substance, which means you are holding the drug in your hand; in your pocket; or otherwise under your control, such as your car`s glove compartment. Either way, you need to know about drugs to be guilty of possession charges. Pharmaceutical Liability Claims.

Nolo.com. If you have been injured by a medication you are using, you may be entitled to defective products. Pharmaceutical liability claims are similar to other erroneous product claims, but pharmaceutical infringement claims have a number of details, which will be discussed below. Your criminal charge is based on the type of drug you possess. Controlled substances are divided into „classes“ ranging from Class A (the most dangerous drugs) to Class E, which are considered the least hazardous. Possession of Class A drugs carries harsher penalties; Class E is associated with the lowest sentences. Executive Order to Promote Competition in the U.S. Economy, July 9, 2021. (p) The Secretary of Health and Human Services: (iv). submit a report. with a plan to continue efforts to combat inflated prescription drug prices and improve domestic pharmaceutical supply chains, reduce federal prices for these drugs, and address the recurring problem of falling prices.

Note: State laws can always change through the passage of new laws, decisions in higher courts (including federal decisions), voting initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most up-to-date information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to review the state laws you are seeking. Class E substances in Massachusetts are more broadly defined as less potent prescription drugs that contain less codeine, morphine or opium, or „non-Class A, B, C, D prescription drugs.“ Marijuana laws have changed significantly in recent years, and in November 2016, voters approved a vote questioning the legalization of recreational marijuana use. The state continues to develop and implement regulations to support the safe use and purchase of marijuana as part of this voting initiative. However, if a person is charged with possession of illegal amounts of marijuana, they can face a prison sentence ranging from 6 months to 15 years. For more information on recent changes and the impact a marijuana possession charge can have, please visit our Marijuana Possession website.