Ecstasy/MDMA Possession Charges and Penalties Louisiana

Ecstasy Possession Charges In Louisiana

Ecstasy or MDMA is known as a Schedule I Controlled Substance. This means that the drug has a higher chance of abuse than medical use. This is a class of drugs that people abuse often. These drugs have higher charges than drugs in another class. They are also abused more often than those in other classes. The police will determine how much of the drug you have for possession charges. Let us look at how possessing Ecstasy or MDMA will affect your life. We will also look at how the legal process works in Louisiana. If you are on this page, you likely need advice. Knowing the legal process and what penalties there are will benefit you. 

How the Legal Process Works in Louisiana

Those who are being charged with possession or other crimes need to know how the process works. If you do not understand the legal aspects of the process, it will not benefit you. This process is simple and straightforward. It is also easy to understand. Let us look. 

1. You will be arrested. This is the first step in any legal process. You will be charged at that time. However, this charge could change depending on what police find and what is on your body. 
2. The next step occurs about four weeks after being arrested or charged. Your file will be assigned to an open prosecutor. The prosecutor will oversee holding onto the case until it is resolved. They will hold the case until you appear in front of the judge or you pay off all fees. Remember that each case is slightly different. 
3. Once you have been arrested for six weeks, the prosecutor assigned to the case will help review it. The prosecution will also determine what you should be sentenced with. They also will determine how the trial is carried out. If you do not have enough evidence for a case, the case may be dismissed. 
4. If you go to trial, the date will be available after completing the third step. You will appear in front of the judge. It is at this time that you will find your final court date. During this appearance, you will discuss the pending charges and when the next trial is. 
5. You now have your final trial date. The evidence will be brought together, and you will go to court. You will appear in front of the judge. Between steps four and five, you will have a charge determined. In the first initial case, you can ask for another date. The judge may choose to deny or accept it. 
6. Once a status date happens, you can go to trial. The defense attorney(s) and prosecutors gather with the judge. They will discuss any other issues that may arise before you are sentenced. 
7. Now is the final trial date. This is where you will be proven innocent or guilty. This is where you get the chance to defend yourself. It would be best if you had an attorney on your side. This will ensure that you get the best odds.
   1. If you are found guilty, you will be given your sentence. Likely they will take you from the courtroom to the prison. If you are found not guilty, you are free to leave. This case will be dropped, and you will likely not have it on your record. 

Possessing Ecstasy/MDMA Penalties and Charges 

You cannot have a controlled substance without an active prescription. Even if you have an active prescription, selling or not taking as prescribed is illegal. You want to ensure that these drugs are not abused.  Schedule I drugs are made of two categories. Marijuana is the first category, and all other offenses not related to marijuana are another category. 

You will find that possession of Ecstasy or MDMA will find you up to ten years in prison. Fines can be up to 5,000 dollars. Remember, you can get fines and prison time. It will all depend on how much of the Schedule I drug you have in your possession. 

Other Options

You may find a few other options available when you are on trial for drug possession. If you are a non-violent offender, you may be eligible for a Pretrial Diversion. This will allow someone with a possession charge to be put on probation. 

Pretrial Intervention For Ecstasy Possession Charges

Another option for those who are repeat offenders is a Pretrial Intervention. This is probation. However, it is stricter. You must engage in regular drug testing and likely be in a treatment program during your probationary time. 

Drug Court For Possession of MDMA

There is another option called Drug Court. This is a specialized court system where repeat offenders can turn their life around instead of spending it rotting in prison. 

Motion to Suppress 

You can often ask for a Motion to Suppress. This will happen when evidence is obtained by illegal means. If an officer obtained evidence this way, you could ask for this motion.

Submit a Plea

Lastly, there is a plea. This will allow you to avoid treatment and have probation. This is the deal that will provide you with the littlest consequences. However, it is difficult to submit a plea in Louisiana because of the strict laws. That is why it is important to have a lawyer on your side. You want someone who has experience so they can help you. 

Final Thoughts: Ecstasy Possession Charges and Penalties Louisiana

It is essential to have a great lawyer by your side. It would be best if you had someone who could gather all the facts and speak for you. This person should be reliable and trustworthy. You are facing prison time. There is no time to joke around. Be sure to contact an experienced lawyer with experience in possession cases.

If you are facing any type of drug possession charges in Louisiana, you should hire a criminal defense attorney immediately. Barkemeyer Law Firm has locations throughout Louisiana and is a top criminal attorney to help you through your ecstasy possession charges. You can contact Barkemeyer Law Firm on this page here.

You should now know more about ecstasy possession charges and penalties in Louisiana and we wish you luck!