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Drug Trafficking

Drug Trafficking

A Strong Defense Against Complex, Serious Charges

Drug “trafficking” is a general term that can include transportation of drugs for sale, importing drugs, selling drugs, or even offering to do any of those things. A person convicted of drug trafficking in Arizona faces a significant prison term, which makes it essential to have an experienced lawyer on your side. The attorneys at Tait & Hall are skilled in defending these and other drug-related charges and can help you avoid a lengthy prison sentence.

Arizona Drug Laws

Drug Possession vs. Drug Trafficking – What’s the difference?

Drug possession charges usually involve the possession of a small amount of a drug for personal use. Trafficking, on the other hand, usually involves larger amounts of drugs possessed with the intent to sell or otherwise transfer the drugs.

Consequences for Drug Trafficking in Arizona

While simple possession of marijuana is a Class 6 felony, trafficking of marijuana is a Class 3 felony– if the amount of marijuana is less than two pounds. If the amount of marijuana is two pounds or more, it is a Class 2 felony.

The simple possession of narcotic drugs and possession of dangerous or illicit drugs are both Class 4 felonies. Trafficking of the same drugs is a Class 2 felony.

A Class 3 felony is punishable by 2 to 8.75 years in prison. A Class 2 felony is punishable by 3 to 12.5 years in prison.

Drug Threshold Amounts in Arizona

Unless the amount of drugs found in your possession is at or exceeds what Arizona law refers to as the “threshold amount,” probation may be an alternative sentencing solution.

Alternatively, a conviction for trafficking drugs in an amount more than the threshold will result in a mandatory prison sentence.

The “threshold amount” for various drugs in Arizona is as follows:

  • 2 pounds of marijuana
  • 9 grams of cocaine
  • 1 gram of heroin
  • 4 grams or 50 milliliters of PCP
  • 9 grams of methamphetamine
  • 9 grams of amphetamine
  • For all other drugs, an amount that is valued at $1000 or more

Unique Complications Involving Methamphetamine

Different from other drug classifications, a conviction of trafficking methamphetamine in Arizona involves special sentencing terms. Arizona drug laws have determined that methamphetamine is especially dangerous, and therefore has created a separate sentencing scheme.

As a result, a person convicted of trafficking methamphetamine will be sentenced between five and 15 years in prison. If convicted a second time, the penalties are even harsher: 10 to 20 years in prison.

Arizona Drug Crimes & Criminal Defense Lawyers

Get In Touch With Our Experienced Attorneys

If you or a loved one faced drug trafficking charges, please contact our attorneys to determine how we can assist with your case. We promise to handle your case with professionalism and diligence, and to fight for your rights and the best possible outcome for your case.

Call our Phoenix office at (480) 405-6767 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. 

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