North Carolina vs. United States Drug Schedules

 In NC, drugs are classified by “schedule” according to: ▪ Dangeousness ▪ Risk of Addiction  The charge and penalty you face for a drug possession depends on the drug in question.

This classification includes drugs like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. This is considered a Class I felony and carries a potential 3 to 8 months in the state prison system along with fines.

Schedule II drugs are slightly less dangerous than Schedule I drugs but they still have a very high risk of addiction. These include methamphetamines, cocaine, methadone, and opium. Possession of these substances is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor and carries a potential 6 to 12 months in jail.

Schedule III substances are addictive but they also have some acceptable medical uses. They include things like ketamine, anabolic steroids, and some depressants. If you are accused of possessing drugs like this, you could face Class 1 misdemeanor charges with 6 to 12 months in jail.

These drugs are often prescribed by medical doctors though they are addictive. They include Xanax, Valium, and other sedatives. Possession of a Schedule IV drug is a Class 1 misdemeanor that carries 6 to 12 months in jail.

Schedule V substances have a very low addiction risk but they are still controlled by prescription. They are typically medications that include codeine. Possession of a Schedule V is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor which carries a potential sentence of 30 days to 6 months in jail.

Schedule VI drugs are those that have no medical use and a very low risk of addiction. In North Carolina, marijuana is classified under Schedule VI. Possession of a Schedule VI is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor and carries up to 30 days in jail.

All of these listed penalties represent the maximum allowable sentences under North Carolina law. It is rare to see a judge sentence someone to the maximum penalty, though it occasionally happens. The results of your case depend on the specific circumstances surrounding it. Things like a criminal record and the amount of drugs you had can affect your sentence greatly.

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