Understanding Local Laws And Drug Charges Can Be Very Confusing

When your college student child has been arrested for possession, intent to sell or any other drug charges, it can be overwhelming, especially if this is the first time you as parents are calling a lawyer to deal with an arrest. If you thought marijuana was decriminalized or that Adderall was not illegal, think again. It can be a frightening time pondering unknown outcomes as your national merit scholar’s future comes crashing down because of one mistake.

The Borough of State College decriminalized marijuana to become a fine-only offense for possessing 30 grams or less, but it is not a statewide law. For first-time possession of a small amount of pot for personal use, decriminalization means:

  • No arrest
  • No prison time
  • No criminal record

However, Penn State police will still charge marijuana possession as a misdemeanor if you are detained on University property. A misdemeanor conviction could still mean a student will lose their eligibility for student loans, face a driver’s license suspension, fines and prison time.

It is important to get an experienced defense attorney involved in investigating the facts surrounding an arrest for drug offenses. Before you make decisions about your case, call me at the Law Office of Ronald F. Saupe, Esq., for a free consultation at 814-983-0017.

Why Is Possession Of Any Amount Of Marijuana Still Illegal?

The federal government classifies marijuana as a “Schedule 1” substance, the same as heroin, LSD, Ecstasy and peyote. Generally, the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) defines Schedule 1 substances as those with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medicinal use. It is a federal offense to possess any amount of marijuana. On the other hand, in Pennsylvania, marijuana may be prescribed under its Medical Marijuana Program to patients for treatment of certain medical conditions, but recreational use is still illegal.

Additionally, purchasing one tab of Adderall without your own prescription equates to possession of a controlled substance. Under federal law, Adderall is a “Schedule 2” drug, with a high potential for abuse and addiction, the same as Ritalin, cocaine, Vicodin, methamphetamine, oxycodone and others.

To further confuse matters, drug laws in Pennsylvania are constantly evolving. I stay current with the changes as well as the various alternative sentencing diversions such as the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (“ARD”) program.

Do Not Be Discouraged. Take Action And Call 814-983-0017 Today.

There are always several stages to a criminal charge before a conviction can be made. I can help you understand the local drug laws or help you locate a diversion program alternative to a criminal sentence for which you or a family member may qualify. Contact my office by completing my online form, or call my office at 814-983-0017 to learn more. I serve clients in State College and Centre County with reasonable rates.

AV | Preeminent | Ronald F. Saupe | 2013