Massachusetts Narcotic Laws

Massachusetts has strict drug laws.

In Massachusetts as elsewhere, narcotics laws are not taken lightly. Penalties and charges vary depending on what kind of illegal drugs are concerned as well as the amount of the drug(s) involved.

Classifications

Massachusetts' narcotic laws divide drugs into five classifications: Class A (heroin and other opiates), Class B (cocaine and other prescription opiates), Class C (Diazepam and other prescription drugs), Class D (marijuana, most commonly), and Class E (codeine, morphine and opium).

Possession

A first-time possession offense, regardless of quantity, results in the suspension of your license for a one year minimum. Possession penalties can result in up to two years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine (as of 2010). If you are located where heroin is held, the penalty is up to one year in prison and $1,000 fine.

Sale

It can be determined that someone had the intent to sell drugs based on minimal evidence. For example, how the drugs are packaged or whether or not there is a scale can be a deciding factor. An ample amount of an illegal drug can result in being considered drug trafficking although there is no exact amount or quantity of an illegal drug that qualifies as drug distribution. It is likely this would lead to prison time, depending on the defendant's criminal record.

References

• The 186th General Court of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts: General Laws