Anabolic steroids' use, possession and distribution can hold significant legal heft, as both state and federal law prohibits their use. Because of this, you should know that you can be prosecuted under either law, depending on which agency has made the arrest. You can also be charged in both federal and state court for possession or distribution of anabolic steroids. However, if an arrest is made by a local officer, the charge will likely be made in state court.
Getting the facts about your rights in a defense against an anabolic steroids charge is important. Having a Colorado criminal defense attorney that is experienced in this particular facet of law is key to a successful defense.
Legal Penalties for Steroids Possession in Colorado:
- First offense possession of anabolic steroids:
Any schedule 3 substance is a federal offense that can be penalized with up to a year in prison in addition to, or a fine of $1,000 or more. - Second offense possession of anabolic steroids:
This carries a mandatory imprisonment for 15 days to 2 years, as well as a fine of $2,500. - Third offense possession of anabolic steroids:
A mandatory imprisonment of 90 days to 3 years, and a $5,000 minimum fine.
The penalties for simple possession are serious, and as such, hiring a knowledgeable Colorado drug crimes lawyer is the first step towards a successful outcome in your case.
Legal Penalties for Trafficking in Steroids in Colorado:
- First offense trafficking: selling or having enough in your possession to be suspected of distribution:
Trafficking is a felony offense that is punishable by up to five years in prison, two years parole and a fine of $250,000. - Second offense trafficking:
This charge carries a maximum ten year imprisonment, 4 years parole, and in some cases, increased fines.
Special Concerns Regarding Minors
The charges change a bit if anabolic steroids are being distributed to a minor. A minor in this law is defined as anyone under the age of 21, but the same penalties may apply if a person is suspected of having manufacturing or distributing near a school or college. In these cases, the statutory maximum can be doubled. When facing an investigation or charges related to drugs like anabolic steroids, you contact a Colorado anabolic steroids lawyer.
If the person being charged is a minor, the charges are adjudicated in the juvenile courts. As such, adult sanctions will not apply, but juvenile offenders may face imprisonment in a juvenile prison. Community service, probation, treatment and fines are also used as penalties in drug cases involving anabolic steroids. For any juvenile drug charge, a conviction results in a suspended driver's license until the age of 18.
Contact a Colorado criminal defense attorney if you're facing drug charges for anabolic steroids.
If you or someone you know has been charged with either possession or trafficking of anabolic steroids, it is important to know the facts. Don't hesitate to contact an experienced Colorado criminal defense attorney right away, so that you can begin to take action and minimize the impact on your future.
Contact the law firm of Christian A. Schwaner, P.C. or call 719-387-0616 for a free initial consultation.
