Winchester Drug Crime Attorney

Manufacturing & Distributing in Virginia

For a charge involving the manufacturing of drugs, the prosecution may have to prove that the defendant had two or more ingredients in possession with the intent to manufacture an illicit drug. To convict someone of distributing drugs (or intent to do so), the prosecution usually uses evidence such as the amount and packaging of the drugs that the defendant is found with. The Code of Virginia § 18.2-248. lays out some specific amounts of various substances, but the prosecution may also bring in a drug expert to verify that the amount of the substance is too great to be only for individual usage.

Manufacturing and distributing illicit drugs is handled more severely than possession in Virginia. As is the case in most crimes, the sentencing increases with repeat offenses.

The consequences for manufacturing and distributing of illicit drugs can include:

• Up to $2500 fine and up to 12 months in jail for Schedules III, IV, or V drugs (misdemeanor)
• Up to $2500 fine and up to 12 months in jail or up to 10 years of imprisonment for half an ounce to five pounds of marijuana with intent to distribute (felony)
• Up to $500,000 fine and five to 40 years imprisonment for Schedules I or II drugs (felony)

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking in Virginia generally refers to the manufacture, distribution, sale, or transportation of large quantities of controlled substances. It is different from simple possession and often carries mandatory minimum sentences.

Virginia imposes the following penalties for drug trafficking based on the type and quantity of drugs involved:

• Cocaine, Heroin, and Methamphetamine: Trafficking 100g or more of heroin, 500g or more of cocaine, or 250g or more of methamphetamine is a felony punishable by 20 years to life in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 20 years and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
• Marijuana: Trafficking more than 5 lbs of marijuana is a felony with a sentence of 5 to 30 years in prison, while 100 kg or more carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years up to life.
• Transporting Drugs into Virginia: Bringing 1 oz or more of cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, or 5 lbs or more of marijuana, into the state with intent to distribute is a felony with a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison.
• Drug Conspiracy Charges: Conspiring to traffic drugs carries the same penalties as if the crime were committed, meaning long prison sentences and heavy fines.
• Enhanced Penalties: Repeat offenders, trafficking near schools, or using firearms during drug trafficking can lead to longer mandatory minimum sentences, including life imprisonment in some cases.

Lastly, since Virginia's drug trafficking laws overlap with federal laws, traffickers can also face federal prosecution under the Controlled Substances Act, which carries harsher penalties.

Local Insights on Drug Trafficking in Winchester

Facing drug trafficking charges in Winchester can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. Virginia’s drug trafficking laws are strict, and the consequences can be severe. That’s why having a legal team that understands the local court system—like the Winchester Circuit Court and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office—is essential for building a strong defense.

Every case is unique, and the stigma surrounding drug charges often adds to the stress. A tailored, compassionate legal approach can make all the difference in addressing your specific circumstances. With experienced guidance, you can better understand your options, know your rights, and take steps toward resolving your case effectively.

If you’re facing drug trafficking charges, working with a team that knows Winchester’s legal and community challenges can help you make informed decisions about your future. Don’t face this alone—get the support you need from Amable Law, PLLC to move forward.

Contact Amable Law Today

Whether you have been arrested or being investigated for any type of drug crime in Virginia, know that you can count on our Winchester criminal defense lawyer to be on your side. From day 1 of our client-attorney relationship, you can rest assured that we are prepared to go above and beyond to help you and earn your trust. Since we established our firm, we have been successfully representing clients in a variety of drug charges. Let our drug crime lawyers put our extensive experience to work for you.

Don’t hesitate to call an honest and trustworthy Winchester criminal defense attorney who cares for your legal needs personally. Call Amable Law at (540) 739-2001.

Commonly Asked Questions