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Drug Possession Arrested? Get a Board-Certified Trial Lawyer on Your Side

Las Vegas Drug Possession Lawyer 

Defending Against Drug Possession Charges in Nevada

Las Vegas has strict laws against possession of controlled substances. The state does not outright penalize people for being in possession of controlled substances, provided there is legal basis for it in the first place — i.e. having packets of medical marijuana is legal if covered by prescription from a competent doctor. The state will penalize anyone in possession of substances that are outright illegal to own, or are owned without legal papers to justify the ownership.

Call us today at (702) 825-7854 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our possession of controlled substances attorney in Las Vegas.

Definition of Controlled Substances

The law defines controlled substances as “substances that can only be obtained and kept through legal channels and under certain circumstances”.

These regulated substances are grouped in special classification points called ‘schedules’, listing from most dangerous substances (Schedule I) to least dangerous substances (Schedule V). The drug schedule system is patterned after the same system used by Federal law.

Illegal Possession of Controlled Substances 

A person is said to be in illegal possession of a controlled substance if he or she owns controlled substances without legal, medical or scientific justification. Typically, the charge comes into effect if the person is discovered to have marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, or other related narcotics on his or her person. Certain prescription drugs also fall under an illegal charge allegation if the person has no medical prescription to own said prescription drugs.

There are three classifications of controlled substance possession as recognized in Nevada law.

  • Actual Possession: Drugs or other controlled substances were found on the defendant’s person at the time of the arrest.
  • Constructive Possession: Drugs or other controlled substances were found in the vicinity of the defendant’s personal property.
  • Shared Possession: Drugs or other controlled substances are co-owned with another person, either for shared use or shared distribution.

Understanding Nevada Drug Possession Laws

It's important to understand the laws surrounding drug possession in Nevada in order to protect your rights and make informed decisions. Possession of controlled substances is a serious offense that can result in severe legal consequences, including fines, probation, and imprisonment. Our experienced Las Vegas drug possession lawyers can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate through the complexities of Nevada's drug possession laws.

Key points to consider about Nevada drug possession laws:

  • Nevada classifies controlled substances into different schedules based on their potential for abuse and medical use.
  • Possession of even a small amount of a controlled substance can lead to criminal charges.
  • Penalties for drug possession can vary depending on the type and quantity of the substance, as well as prior criminal history.
  • Defenses such as lack of knowledge of possession or illegal search and seizure may apply in certain cases.
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