Despite recent changes to legislation in Connecticut, most drug possession outside of specific legal allowances remains prohibited, including unauthorized possession of marijuana beyond legal amounts and certain prescription drugs without valid authorization. Such violations can result in arrests and misdemeanor charges in Torrington, while more serious offenses like drug distribution or intent to distribute could lead to felony charges with substantial prison terms.

If you’re confronted with such accusations, consulting a Torrington drug attorney without delay is essential. The professionals at Ruane Attorneys are well-acquainted with Connecticut’s drug statutes and the consequences of a drug conviction. We are adept at analyzing the prosecution’s case and crafting defense strategies to protect your rights.

Understanding Drug Possession Charges

In Connecticut, holding controlled substances unlawfully is deemed a class A misdemeanor under Connecticut General Statutes § 21a-279, potentially leading to fines, a criminal record, and up to one year in jail. A lawyer in Torrington can provide comprehensive advice on how to approach these charges in court.

The scope of drug possession charges often includes outright illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy, however, this is not always the case. While possessing certain medications is legal with a prescription, lacking such authorization makes it an offense. In other situations, performing actions such as driving while under the influence of prescribed or legal drugs can lead to criminal charges. It may be legal to possess a substance such as marijuana or alcohol, but if you drive under the influence, you face a DUI charge in Torrington and throughout the state of Connecticut. 

Updates in legislation have modified the parameters for marijuana possession, making it legal to possess or consume the substance recreationally. Now, individuals 21 years old and over are permitted to possess and use marijuana in some settings, restricted to five ounces stored in a secured container. However, as mentioned above, there are still restrictions on how much can be possessed as well as places you can go and things that you can do with this substance in your possession or while being under the influence of this substance. 

Charges Involving Drug Distribution

The stakes are higher with drug distribution charges, as outlined in Conn. Gen. Stat. § 21a-277, where manufacturing, distributing, or selling illicit substances constitutes a felony. These charges can bring lengthy imprisonments of up to 15 years, depending on the type and amount of drug involved.

Our attorneys in Torrington excel at unraveling the details of drug-related arrests and formulating personalized defense strategies.

Engage a Torrington Drug Lawyer to Defend Your Freedom

Drug-related offenses are a common occurrence in Connecticut courts and come with severe repercussions that can impact your social status, employment prospects, and housing stability. Prompt and decisive action is vital.

Hiring a Torrington drug attorney is an important step in safeguarding your freedom. At Ruane Attorneys, we are ready to demystify state drug laws, contest the prosecution’s claims, and zealously represent you in court. Reach out to our office today to initiate your defense. We are happy to discuss your situation more during a free consultation in person or virtually.