Colorado Heroin Charges

Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive opioid drug classified as a Schedule I illegal narcotic in Colorado. Schedule I drugs have no medical purpose, have an escalated risk of abuse and dependency, and have high instances of overdose deaths. An individual facing heroin charges in Colorado can expect the court to aggressively pursue a conviction and apply its harshest penalties. 

If you’ve been charged with possession of heroin or possession with intent to distribute, you need an immediate, robust defense to avoid life-altering consequences, including jail or prison time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Contact our drug crime attorney in Colorado Springs to discuss your legal options. Schedule your free case evaluation today.

What are the Possible Penalties for Colorado Heroin Charge Convictions in Colorado?

Drug crimes in Colorado may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, with two misdemeanor levels and four levels for felonies. The most common heroin drug crime charges in Colorado include the following:

• A heroin use or under the influence charge is a level 2 misdemeanor drug crime. A first offense may result in mandatory diversion or treatment, but subsequent convictions may lead to three months to one year in jail, fines, and probation.
• A possession conviction for having up to four grams of heroin on your person or property is a level 1 crime with harsher penalties, such as 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for a first offense, with up to one year in jail and up to $500,000 in fines for subsequent convictions.
• A heroin distribution conviction of less than 14 grams is a level 3 felony, with two to four years of incarceration and fines ranging from $2,000 to $500,000. Distributing between 14 and 225 grams of heroin is a level 2 felony charge and may result in up to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000. Distributing near a school may increase the penalties.
• A conviction for distributing heroin in amounts of 112 grams or more, or distributing to a minor, has the state’s harshest penalties, with prison time between eight and 32 years, and fines of up to $1 million. 

Defenses Against Heroin Convictions In Colorado

The criminal justice system in Colorado takes drug crime convictions very seriously, despite the state’s reputation for ground-breaking leniency in marijuana usage. Even a conviction for being under the influence of heroin can impact the rest of your life, including your job opportunities and ability to rent a home or apartment. Convictions for heroin distribution could result in spending many years of your life incarcerated and a permanent criminal record.

A Colorado Springs drug crimes defense lawyer immediately launches an aggressive defense of your legal rights by investigating all aspects of your case to tailor the best possible strategy for your defense. Possible defenses include:

• Lack of knowledge: you did not know the substance in your possession was heroin, or you were unaware that the heroin was on your property
• The heroin belonged to someone else, and you were mistakenly charged
• The heroin in your possession was a small amount, meant for personal use with no intent to sell
• A procedural problem occurred, such as an unlawful search and seizure, coercion, false lab result, or misconduct, such as planting false evidence

A favorable outcome from a strong legal defense could include dropped charges, a drug diversion program, or reduced penalties, depending on the unique circumstances of your case.

How Can a Colorado Drug Crime Defense Lawyer Help Me?

You are entitled to a vigorous defense in a Colorado heroin charge case right from the moment you are arrested and taken into custody. Call (719) 227-0007 to speak with our experienced Colorado Springs drug crimes attorneys at Anaya Law Group for the prompt action you are entitled to under Colorado law.