por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Possession of Cocaine in Arizona: What You Need to Know

Being charged with possession of cocaine in Arizona is a serious matter that requires immediate legal attention. At The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, PLLC, we aggressively defend individuals facing drug-related charges and work to protect their rights and future.

Cocaine Classification Under Arizona Law

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3408, cocaine is classified as a narcotic drug, and possession, use, sale, or transportation is considered a felony offense.

You can view the full statute here:
ARS § 13-3408 – Possession, Use, Administration, Acquisition, Sale, Manufacture or Transportation of Narcotic Drugs

Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Arizona

Penalties depend on the amount of cocaine involved, prior criminal history, and whether there was intent to sell. Below is a general overview:

Note: Felony convictions may lead to loss of civil rights, gun ownership restrictions, employment issues, and more.

Threshold Amounts of Cocaine

Arizona uses “threshold amounts” to determine whether charges may escalate and probation eligibility:

• 9 grams of powdered cocaine
• 750 milligrams of cocaine base (e.g., crack)

Possession over these threshold amounts may result in more severe charges and reduced opportunities for probation.

Possible Defenses Against a Cocaine Possession Charge

A skilled criminal defense attorney may be able to challenge your case using one or more of the following strategies:

• Unlawful search and seizure (Fourth Amendment violations)
• Lack of knowledge or constructive possession
• Entrapment
• Eligibility under Proposition 200 (probation for qualifying first-time offenders)
• Diversion programs for non-violent offenders

Each case is unique, and identifying the strongest legal strategy depends on the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence presented.

Why You Need an Experienced Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney

Drug crimes involving cocaine can lead to life-changing consequences. You need a defense attorney who:

• Understands Arizona criminal justice procedures
• Knows how prosecutors handle drug charges
• Has a proven record of defending serious narcotics offenses
• Fights for case dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing when possible

At The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, we provide strategic, aggressive, and results-driven representation.

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged

If you or someone you know is facing cocaine possession charges:

1. Do not speak to law enforcement without legal representation
2. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately
3. Preserve documents and evidence from the arrest
4. Avoid posting anything related to the case on social media

Being charged does not mean you will be convicted. The earlier you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Call The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, PLLC today for a free and confidential consultation.
Let our team fight to protect your future.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Drug Possession Laws Arizona

In today’s political climate, drug laws can vary greatly from state to state. For this reason, it’s essential to be aware of which drugs are legal, which are not, and what could happen if you choose to defy the law. Today, we’re explaining it all to you.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about drug possession laws in Arizona and find out what could happen if illegal substances are found in your possession by law enforcement. If you have recently been arrested for possession, feel free to reach out to our team today for a free consultation to discuss your options.

What Are the Drug Sentencing Laws in Arizona?

In the state of Arizona, controlled substances are classified into different categories.

As you can probably imagine, each drug category yields different consequences. When prosecuting, the burden of proof varies depending on the drug offense. Other factors (like prior offenses, violent offenders, etc.) will also be taken into consideration.

Drug Sentencing for Specific Cases

Getting a drug conviction in Arizona results in serious penalties. But as we mentioned, those penalties vary depending on what drugs are involved. While this list is by no means exhaustive, here is a brief overview of the penalties for specific drug cases:

• Possession of a dangerous drug that is less than the threshold amount – This is charged as a class 4 felony first offense. Therefore, the potential fine is higher than $2,000 or 3 times the value of the substance. Additionally, you’ll face 1 to 3.75 years in jail (depending on your prior charges).
• First offense possession of a narcotic – This is a class 4 felony charge. Therefore, you may encounter a fine of $2,000 or 3 times the value of the substance and some time in jail. Of course, that period will likely be shorter if you do not have prior convictions.

Defenses for Drug Possession in Arizona

It’s important to remember that being charged is not the same as being convicted. In fact, working with a skilled criminal defense attorney with experience working similar cases can help prevent a conviction from taking place.

Because our team is well-versed in Arizona drug possession laws, we know how to combat the prosecution’s claims. Some of the most common defenses used in drug possession cases include the following:

• Lack of knowledge
• Illegal search and seizure

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

Are you or a loved one navigating a drug possession charge in Arizona? This state is known for some of the harshest legal standards in the United States, so it can be challenging to do so on your own. Luckily, we’re here to help.

Our attorneys bring an unparalleled level of experience, aggressiveness, and legal expertise to effectively defend your case. If you are interested in finding out what our famous Aggressive Compassionate Representation can do for you, contact us today.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Marijuana Legalized in Arizona

Thanks to Proposition 207 – also known as the “Smart and Safe Arizona Act” – marijuana has now been legalized in Arizona. However, this is not to say that there aren’t restrictions. Stay tuned, as Phoenix’s top-rated attorneys are revealing everything you need to know about the legalization of marijuana in Arizona in today’s blog post.

Proposition 207 Explained

Proposition 207 had marijuana legalized in Arizona, which changed the formerly criminal law in some major ways. Just like alcohol, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or consume marijuana. This law also makes it a crime to distribute marijuana to a minor.

Arizona citizens are legally allowed to possess one ounce of marijuana (which is 28.35 grams). Of that ounce, they can possess five grams of marijuana concentrate, which is a resin extracted from the marijuana plant.

It’s important to note that Arizona’s DUI laws have not been changed by this proposition. However, in order to be convicted of a DUI, the prosecution must be able to prove that you were driving while impaired. (Simply having THC in your blood is not enough to be arrested.)

Additionally, the law does not legalize the smoking of marijuana in public or open spaces, and employers can still prohibit their employees from consuming marijuana before or during working hours.

Police Cannot Use Marijuana as Grounds for Search

Proposition 207 complies with your 4th amendment right to be free from warrantless searches by the police. While few Arizonians are aware of this proposition, it is essential to be aware of what it means for our state. Specifically, Proposition 207 states that:

 “The odor of marijuana or burnt marijuana does not by itself constitute reasonable articulable suspicion of a crime.” 

Expungement Is Now Legal (With Limitations)

Prior to this proposition, Arizona law did not support the expungement of drug convictions. However, this law changes that. Proposition 207 allows for the expungement of certain marijuana convictions. Here’s what you need to know:

• – Expungement applies only in certain cases. Expungement is limited to certain types of marijuana offenses including possession of 2.5 ounces or less; possession of 6 (or less) marijuana plants for personal use; and using marijuana paraphernalia.
• – Defendants, defense attorneys, and prosecutors can file petitions. A petition must be filed for an expungement to occur.
• – Convictions for transportation of large quantities of marijuana are not eligible. If your case involves several pounds of marijuana, you cannot get your arrest or conviction expunged.

Top-Rated Phoenix Attorneys

So, is marijuana legalized in Arizona? In short, the answer is yes. However, we hope that today’s blog post was able to explain the nuances of the law and its implications. If you or a loved one is facing a marijuana arrest, working with a skilled criminal law attorney can help.

Our team here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed brings a level of aggressiveness, experience, and knowledge to your criminal defense case. With our attorneys by your side, you can rest assured that your case will yield the best possible outcome.

Ready to see what we can do for you? Contact our team for a free, no-obligation consultation today.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Drug Possession Phoenix

In Arizona, drug sentencing laws and the legal process involved in sentencing are complex. If you are facing drug possession charges, the most important thing you can do to help yourself is to seek the assistance of an experienced drug defense attorney.

If you are convicted in Arizona, drug possession charges can lead to probation, jail time, and severe financial penalties. A person convicted of drug possession can be sentenced to a maximum fine of up to $150,000. This makes it all the more critical to obtain legal help from a drug defense attorney you can count on.

Drug Possession Laws in Phoenix, AZ

In the State of Arizona, you are prohibited from possessing or using illegal drugs. Arizona statute provide different offenses for drug possession depending on the type of drug invovled. The penalties that may arise in the event that you are discovered breaking the law depend on the type of substance found in your possession.

Arizona Revised Statute Section 13-3405, is Arizona’s statute prohibiting possession or use of marijuana. In November 2020, Arizona voters passed the Safe and Smart Act which allowed an adult to possess up to one ounce of marijuana. Possession of more than 1 ounce of marijuana, but less than 2.5 ounces is a petty offense. However, possession of more than 2.5 ounces is still governed by Arizona’s felony marijuana possession statute, Section 13-3405.

Arizona Revised Statute Section 13-3407, is Arizona’s statute prohibiting possession or use of dangerous drugs. Dangerous drugs in Arizona include methamphetamine, MDA, and PCP.

Arizona Revised Statute Section 13-3408, is Arizona’s statute prohibiting possession or use of narcotic drugs. Narcotic drugs in Arizona include cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, and morphine.

Drug Possession Threshold Amounts

In any individual case, there is a wide range of possible sentencing options that depend on the specifics of your case. However, when the quantity of drugs in your possession either meets or exceeds the statutory threshold, prison time is mandatory.

Under Section 13-3401 of the Arizona statutes, the threshold amount is defined as such:

• 1 gram of heroin
• 4 grams of PCP
• 9 grams of cocaine
• 9 grams of amphetamine or methamphetamine
• 5 milliliters of LSD
• 2 pounds of marijuana

Arizona state law deems that any other illegal drug not named here holds a threshold of any amount with a value of $1,000 or more. Seeking legal help from a licensed professional is a critical first step in any drug possession case, but it’s especially important if the amount you were charged with meets or exceeds any of the above amounts.

Top Drug Defense Attorneys in Phoenix

If you’re facing drug possession charges in Phoenix, it’s important to seek the help of a skilled drug defense attorney who is experienced in similar cases and can advocate on your behalf. Here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed, our top-rated attorneys are aggressive in their efforts and compassionate about our clients.

Our team has extensive experience in handling drug defense cases and are more than capable of guiding you to the best possible outcome. Whether you or a loved one are facing drug possession charges or you simply have a question, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our award-winning drug defense attorneys.

por Zayed Al-Sayyed

Is Marijuana Still a Felony in Arizona?

Marijuana possession is one of the most common drug charges seen around the country. In 2019 alone, over half a million people were arrested for possession of marijuana. Drug charges are serious offenses that can result in penalties like probation, hefty fines, and even prison time.

Over the past several years, the laws surrounding marijuana have been changing at a rapid pace in the United States. Historically, it was widely known that the possession and use of marijuana were illegal no matter which state you were in. As marijuana laws can now differ immensely depending on the state, it’s important to do your research.

Marijuana Possession Laws in Arizona

When Section 13-3405 of the Arizona statutes was put into effect, it stated that no individual could knowingly use or possess the drug. This was the case for anybody, with the exception of those who were legally prescribed marijuana for medical conditions, as per the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act.

However, as of November 2020, the Smart and Safe Arizona Act (Proposition 207) was passed and legalized the possession and use of recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and older in the amount of no more than one ounce. This was a huge step for Arizona, as the state has been working towards the legalization of marijuana for years.

It’s important to note that, while the possession and use of marijuana in small amounts is now legal in Arizona, it is still illegal for both drivers and passengers to consume marijuana in any type of vehicle.

Punishment for Marijuana Possession in Arizona

While the Smart and Safe Arizona Act allows for the possession and use of marijuana by adults, there are stipulations that must be strictly adhered to avoid facing penalties. Under the new legislation, the following actions are still illegal and can result in serious criminal charges:

• Operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana
• Possessing or using marijuana under the age of 21
• Smoking recreational marijuana in a public place
• Selling marijuana, unless you are a licensed vendor

While the marijuana laws have undergone major changes, it’s still possible to face serious punishment for marijuana possession in Arizona. By becoming more knowledgeable on the laws in your state, you can work to avoid facing drug possession charges and having to deal with a stressful legal process.

Top Arizona Drug Defense Attorneys

Our award-winning team at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed has ample experience defending clients in drug cases. Our aggressive-compassionate approach has a proven track record of providing our clients with the best possible outcomes. The key difference between our practice and many other Phoenix law firms is that we truly care about the wellbeing of each individual client we work with.

Criminal drug convictions can permanently alter your life. The sooner you contact a licensed attorney, the better able you will be to protect yourself. If you or a loved one are facing drug possession charges in Arizona, contact us today for a free consultation with one of the top drug defense attorneys in Phoenix.