Connecticut Drug Distribution Lawyer

Connecticut’s laws on drug distribution are among the strictest in the nation, and a conviction can result in steep fines and sentences of up to 30 years in jail.

If you have been charged with drug distribution, contact a Connecticut drug distribution lawyer today. A top defense attorney can explain the charges and determine the potential defenses available to you.

Drug Distribution Under Connecticut Law

C.G.S. § 21a-278 and § 21a-277 prohibit distributing or even possessing with the intent to distribute any controlled substance in Connecticut. Connecticut police and prosecutors don’t necessarily need to show that you distributed a controlled substance, but just that you had the intent to. To try to show evidence of intent to distribute, officers will often look to see how the substance is packaged, whether the substance is kept in a “factory-like” setting, and whether there is any other proof of past sales.

What is the Difference between 21a-277 and 21a-278 in CT?

Both of these crimes are unclassified felony charges in Connecticut, and both come with potential jail time, probation, and high fines 21a-278 applies to people who are accused of distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute controlled substances who are not drug-dependent at the time. 21a-277 applies to people who are accused of distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute controlled substances who are drug-dependent at the time, which is mitigation that an experienced Connecticut drug attorney can raise on your behalf. If you are charged with drug distribution / possession with the intent to distribute, it’s imperative that you work with your attorney, who will want documentation and evidence regarding any of your past dependency issues.

What are the Penalties for 21a-278, Distribution of Drugs by a Non-Drug-Dependent Person?

If you are charged with Distribution / Possession with Intent to Distribute and you are not drug-dependent, then you will face mandatory jail time if you plead or are found guilty.

For those convicted of distributing / possessing with the intent to distribute heroin or cocaine under 21a-278, the penalty is up to life in prison – with five years mandatory jail time. For those convicted of distributing / possessing with the intent to distribute other narcotics, hallucinogens other than marijuana, more than a kilogram of marijuana, or amphetamines under 21a-278, the penalty is up to 20 years in prison – with five years mandatory jail time for a first offense.

What are the Penalties for 21a-277, Distribution of Drugs in Connecticut?

If you are charged with Distribution / Possession with Intent to Distribute and your Connecticut drug lawyer can show that were drug-dependent at the time of the offense, then you will be charged under 21a-277. For those convicted of distributing / possessing with the intent to distribute a narcotic or hallucinogen under 21a-277, the penalty is up to 15 years in jail and a fine of up to $50,000. For those convicted of distributing / possessing with the intent to distribute a substance other than a narcotic or hallucinogen under 21a-277, the penalty is up to 7 years in jail and a fine of up to $25,000.00.

Arrests Within 1500 Feet of a School

For all of the charges above, whether the person is drug-dependent or not, there is also a mandatory three-year prison term running consecutively to any prison term imposed for violating the underlying crime if the offense is committed within 1,500 feet of an elementary or secondary school, a licensed daycare center, or a public housing project.

What a Connecticut Drug Distribution Attorney Can Do for You

If you have been charged with drug distribution or possession with the intent to distribute in Connecticut, you are likely facing very serious felony charges, which include hefty fines and potential mandatory jail time. It is important to seek out the help you need from an experienced Connecticut drug distribution lawyer who can determine what legal defenses and options are available to you.