Anyone who is in possession of a controlled substance without proper authorization can be charged with drug possession. A controlled substance is not necessarily illegal drugs but can also be prescription medications or other types of restricted or control substances. There are several penalties in Louisiana along with some alternative possibilities that are usually reserved for first time offenders. You can also be charged if you are riding in a vehicle with a controlled substance if the police have reason to believe you knew the substance was in the vehicle.
Facing Drug Possession in Louisiana
In many cases drug possession is a felony even if the substance is nothing more than a controlled substance such as prescription medication that doesn’t belong to you. If you are a first time offender, the courts have a tendency to be more lenient with drug possession compared to other felony offenses. A great deal depends on how much of the substance you have in your possession and if the police think you were going to sell it. .
Possible Penalties for Drug Possession
Some of the penalties you are likely to face if you are convicted of drug possession in Louisiana include the following:
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Parole
- Submission to random drug testing
- Community service
- You may receive a suspended sentence if you agree to plead guilty
- The court may require you to join one of the drug rehabilitation programs as an alternative penalty
Obtaining Legal Advice
If you are facing a court appearance because of drug possession you need to consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you face the charges against you and even work with the court so you can plead guilty to a lesser charge or face a shorter sentence. You must be up front with your attorney if you expect the court to reduce your charges.
