
Legal Q&A
Q
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Will I be punished even if I am caught merely possessing narcotics, rather than selling them? I am curious about the sentencing for the crime of narcotics possession, and what punishment is imposed when narcotics are sold. There are many kinds of narcotics and the sentencing differs for each charge, so it is a little confusing... Please organize the details for me!
narcotics
crime of narcotics possession
Answer
Published:
Author : DongIl PARK
The Narcotics Control Act prohibits the handling of narcotics by anyone who is not an authorized narcotics handler.
If a person possesses narcotics or psychotropic drugs, this constitutes an unlawful act and may be punished.
The sentencing for the crime of narcotics possession is as follows. First, if a person possesses narcotics falling under item (a), such as methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine, the penalty is imprisonment of five years or more.
Next, if a person possesses narcotics falling under item (b), such as fentanyl, morphine, and methadone, the penalty is imprisonment of three years or more.
Finally, if a person possesses narcotics falling under item (c), such as zolpidem and etizolam, the penalty may be imprisonment of one year or more.
In addition, if a person sells narcotics, they may be subject to imprisonment of five years or more or life imprisonment, so caution is advised.
Even in a simple case of the crime of narcotics possession, it is difficult to expect a lenient disposition merely on the ground of being a first-time offender.
Therefore, please note that, as soon as you become involved in a case, it is more important than anything else to respond promptly and accurately with the assistance of a defense attorney who has a deep understanding of narcotics cases.

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