Cocaine is designated a schedule II controlled substance in Colorado and federally, placing it squarely beside methamphetamine and unprescribed morphine, fentanyl, oxycodone, etc. According to the government Schedule II substances have high potential for abuse, are particularly vulnerable to dependence, and are accepted for restricted forms of medical treatments. These drugs also have some of the highest penalties for possession, use, and distribution. A cocaine charge can impact all aspects of an offender’s life.
Cocaine Possession Penalties
A possession charge for cocaine can occur with any amount of the drug and is classified as a level 4 drug felony (DF4) if the offender is in possession of 4 grams or less of the drug. A DF4 has the penalties of 6-12 months jail time with parole after one year, and/or a fine of $1,000-$100,000. An experienced drug defense attorney can work to minimize penalties and potentially even prevent a felony conviction from appearing on your permanent record
Cocaine Use Penalties
Cocaine use is a level 2 drug misdemeanor (DM2), which has much more forgiving penalties than possession. That being said, a cocaine usage conviction can follow you and impact your life years after your offense. The penalties for a DM2 range from a simple $50 fine to a 12-month jail sentence and/or a $750 fine.
Cocaine Distribution Penalties
Distribution penalties are determined by the amount of the controlled substance found in your possession.
| Amount Transferred in Weight | Drug Felony Level | Penalties |
| <4 grams | DF4 | 6-12 months jail time, $1k-$100K in fines |
| Between 4 and 14 grams | DF3 | 2-4 years jail time, $2k-$500K in fines |
| Between 14 and 225 grams | DF2 | 4-8 years prison time, $3k-$750K in fines |
| >225 grams | DF1 | 8-32 years jail time, $5k-$1mil in fines |
Repeat offenders are often subject to higher penalties, and offenders without a sufficient defense often face unreasonable penalties. The lasting impacts of a drug charge can be especially damaging to offending youths.
Underage Cocaine Charges
No matter the offense, a cocaine charge can make a permanent impact on a youth’s life. This is why it’s vital to get a drug defense lawyer with experience a track record of success to help minimize or even eliminate the charges. If you or your child has been charged with a cocaine-related drug defense, please do not hesitate to contact Tiftickjian Law Firm.
Cocaine DUI Penalties
Colorado state law does not distinguish between controlled substances when it comes to DUIs. This means that a first offense cocaine DUI will be treated the same as a first offense alcohol DUI, with the increased chance of further drug charges being added on top of the DUI charge. This does not mean that a drug-related DUI should be taken lightly; all DUIs should be taken seriously and should be avoided by all means possible.
Hiring a Lawyer With the Experience You Need
Jay Tiftickjian and his team of attorneys have years of collective experience and are proud to put them to work helping you. Contact Tiftickjian Law Firm today to learn about your options and whether you have a case.