Drug Dealing Charges
Drug dealing refers to the illegal sale of illicit substances like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines. In Indiana, this crime is punishable by thousands of dollars in fines, lengthy jail sentences, and more.
If you are arrested on suspicion of drug dealing, trust our team at Shircliff Law LLC to represent your side of the story. I am dedicated to fighting for the rights of the criminally accused. I will work tirelessly to defend you against these charges and help protect your future. Call me at 317-279-4894 to schedule your free consultation.
Why You Need a Defense Attorney From Shircliff Law LLC
If you are facing charges for drug dealing, you need a criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and represent your side of the story. With over 30 years of legal experience and over 200 cases handled, you can trust me represent your case.
I will leverage my skills, experience, and resources to craft a compelling defense on your behalf and work to achieve the best possible outcome—whether that be reduced charges, a case dismissal, or even an acquittal.
What Is Drug Dealing in Indiana?
According to Section 35-48-4-1 of the Indiana Code, drug dealing occurs when a person knowingly or intentionally delivers, manufactures or possesses with the intent to manufacture or deliver illicit drugs. This crime also involves the intentional financing of the manufacture of illicit drugs.
How Indiana Assesses Criminal Penalties
If you are facing drug dealing charges in Indiana, it is important to understand how the state classifies these crimes. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, drug dealing charges can result in Class A or B misdemeanor or felony penalties up to Level 2.
- Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines
- Class A Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines
- Level 6 Felony: Between six months to 2.5 years in prison
- Level 5 Felony: Between one to six years in prison
- Level 4 Felony: Between two to 12 years in prison
- Level 3 Felony: Between three to 16 years in prison
- Level 2 Felony: Between 10 to 30 years in prison
Penalties for Drug Dealing Charges in Indiana
Drug dealing penalties depend on the type and amount of drugs that are involved in the crime. Cases that involve cocaine, narcotics, and methamphetamines, typically result in higher charges than cases that involve marijuana, for example. However, any drug dealing offense can result in jail time.
Cocaine, Narcotics and Methamphetamines
Dealing cocaine, methamphetamine or narcotics like heroin is a felony crime. You could face the following penalties if you are charged with this offense, depending on the amount of the drug involved in the crime:
- Level 5 Felonies: Less than one gram
- Level 4 Felonies: Between one to five grams
- Level 3 Felonies: Between five to 10 grams
- Level 2 Felonies: At least 10 grams
Marijuana, Hash Oil, Hashish and Salvia
Marijuana-related charges can result in a class A misdemeanor, or a felony charge up to Level 5.
- Class A Misdemeanors: Less than 30 grams of marijuana or five grams of hash oil, hashish, or salvia
- Level 6 Felonies: Having a prior drug conviction and 30 grams of marijuana or less or five grams of hash oil, hashish or salvia. A level 6 felony can also include 30 grams to ten pounds of marijuana or between five and 300 grams of hash oil, hashish or salvia.
- Level 5 Felonies: Between 30 grams to 10 pounds of marijuana, or between five grams to 300 grams of hash oil, hashish, salvia, and a prior drug charge conviction; or more than 10 pounds of marijuana or more than 300 grams of hash oil, hashish, or salvia
Other Schedule I, II, or III Drugs
Other Schedule I, II, or III drugs aside from marijuana, narcotics, cocaine, and methamphetamines may result in a different set of penalties. These substances may include LSD, morphine, ecstasy and ketamine.
Depending on the circumstances, you could face felony charges up to a Level 2:
- Level 6 Felonies: Less than one gram
- Level 5 Felonies: Between one to five grams
- Level 4 Felonies: Between five to 10 grams
- Level 3 Felonies: Between 10 to 28 grams
- Level 2 Felonies: At least 28 grams
Schedule IV Drugs
Schedule IV drugs include prescription medications like Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium. Penalties can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Level 3 felony:
- Class A Misdemeanor: Less than one gram
- Level 6 Felonies: Between one to five grams
- Level 5 Felonies: Between five to 10 grams
- Level 4 Felonies: Between 10 to 28 grams
- Level 3 Felonies: At least 28 grams
Schedule V Drugs
Schedule V drugs also include prescription medications like cough medicines with codeine and ezogabine. Penalties for dealing Schedule V drugs can range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Level 4 felony:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Less than one gram
- Class A Misdemeanor: Between one to five grams
- Level 6 Felonies: Between five to 10 grams
- Level 5 Felonies: Between 10 to 28 grams
- Level 4 Felonies: At least 28 grams
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Drug Dealing in Indianapolis
If you are arrested on suspicion of drug dealing, it is important to remain calm and comply with the officer’s orders. Emotional outbursts or attacks could lead to additional charges and escalate the situation with law enforcement. Instead, stay calm and be as silent as possible.
Do not say anything to the officers or any investigators until you speak with a lawyer. Do not write anything down or make any statements to the police. Repeatedly request to speak with a lawyer as soon as you can. After you get in touch with your attorney, he will carefully evaluate your case and help you better understand the charges that are pending against you.
Arrested On Drug Dealing Charges? Shircliff Law LLC Can Help.
Being arrested on drug dealing charges can be a scary experience. In these situations, I can help you understand what to expect, represent your case in front of the courtroom, and fight to protect your best interests.
Contact me online today to discuss your next steps or call me at 317-279-4894 to schedule your free consultation.