Idaho Misdemeanor Possession of a Controlled Substance
Idaho takes a strict stance on drug crimes. A conviction can have serious, even life-changing, short and long term consequences affecting your freedom, future, employment, personal relationships, and reputation.
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Idaho Misdemeanor Possession of a Controlled Substance
It is unlawful for any person to possess a controlled substance unless the substance was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a valid prescription or order of a practitioner while acting in the course of his professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by law.
If you are found to be in violation of this law, the crime can be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor. While a misdemeanor offense is considered a "lesser crime" it should be taken seriously - An Idaho misdemeanor conviction can have serious, even dire, consequences.
What is Misdemeanor Possession of a Controlled Substance?
Any person who has in his possession a controlled substance that is a non narcotic drug classified in Schedule I (except lysergic acid diethylamide), or a controlled substance classified in Schedules III, IV, V and VI is guilty of a misdemeanor.
See: Idaho Code § 37-2732
Potential Punishments for Misdemeanor Possession of a Controlled Substance
Upon conviction, a defendant may be imprisoned for not more than one (1) year, fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both. Beyond jail and fines, it is likely that there would be other punishments including: Probation, Restitution (for lab testing), Drug and alcohol classes, Community Service, etc.
However, this mays simply be the beginning...
Beyond a punishment issued by the court, a conviction can be particularly harmful in terms of gaining future employment, state licensing, educational loans, and other benefits.The conviction will show up on background checks and employers tend to be wary of applicants with drug records. But there is hope. An experienced Idaho criminal defense attorney can often help you defeat the charge and keep the matter off your record.
Let the attorneys at Schofield and Young fight to protect your future and preserve your freedom
Do not let a drug conviction follow you around for the rest of your life. Let us fight for your rights, your freedom, and your future.