The cocaine possession laws in Utah classify misdemeanor and felony drug possession charges based on the federal drug schedule. Surprisingly, cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance, because the Schedule I drugs are even more dangerous.
Even today, doctors may use cocaine as a topical anesthetic immediately prior to certain medical procedures. In fact, this limited medical use may be the main reason the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies it as Schedule II, rather than as a Schedule I drug, which have no currently accepted medical uses. Otherwise, both classifications of drugs pose a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.
Even though more dangerous drugs exist, cocaine possession is at least a second-degree felony crime that can be upgraded to first-degree felony based on any repeat offense history and a number of other factors, including:
- The amount of cocaine
- The involvement or presence of minors
- The location of the crime
- Whether the crime resulted in injury or death to others
Anyone facing cocaine possession charges needs immediate representation by experienced Salt Lake City cocaine possession defense attorneys to protect their rights through the criminal process.
With over six decades of combined experience defending clients, the criminal defense attorneys at Larsen, Larsen, Nash & Larsen can help you achieve the best outcome possible. We offer free consultations to individuals throughout northern Utah. Contact us to learn how we can help.