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Scheduling system central to drug charges and consequences

by | Sep 28, 2016 | Drug Sales & Distribution |

One of the key elements of drug crime law in the criminal justice system is the scheduling system. “Schedules” are classifications that the Drug Enforcement Agency and the government use to determine which drugs and substances can be abused and have a high chance to cause addiction. The higher up the scheduling system a drug or substance is, the more punishing the consequences are for possessing, using or distributing that drug or substance.

You probably heard schedules mentioned earlier this year, when the DEA was considering reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule 1 substance (the highest in the system). Marijuana was ultimately left with its Schedule 1 designation, meaning people who possess and distribute the substance will be harshly punished and it also limits the ability of scientists to study marijuana for its medical benefits.

The other schedules, and the drugs and substances that are classified under those schedules, are as follows:

  • Schedule 1 is for marijuana, heroin, LSD and other “major” drug types
  • Schedule 2 is for cocaine, meth and certain powerful medical drugs such as oxycodone and Vicodin
  • Schedule 3 is for things such as codeine, ketamine and anabolic steroids
  • Schedule 4 is for many prescription drugs, such as Xanax and Ambein
  • Schedule 5 is for things such as Robitussin AC and Lyrica

If you have been accused of committing a drug offense, the schedule of the substance involved will play a huge role in how punishing the charges against you are. No matter the circumstances, you should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Source: Vox, “The federal drug scheduling system, explained,” German Lopez, Aug. 11, 2016