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Controlled Substances

Possession of a Controlled Substance Lawyer in Worcester
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties

In Massachusetts, not only are dangerous controlled substances illegal to possess, the materials used to manufacture them can be as well. A possession of a controlled substance lawyer at Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray is well versed in the state’s drug classification system and can help you understand exactly what you’re facing.

Massachusetts Controlled Substance Classifications

Class A: Heroin, morphine, codeine, and ketamine.
Class B: Cocaine, crack, PCP, LSD, and amphetamines.
Class C: Mescaline, diazepam, and peyote.
Class D: Marijuana, hashish, and any drug containing THC as its active component.
Class E: Prescription medication.

Penalties scale with classification, from probation or fines for Class E up to two years in jail for a first offense and up to five years for subsequent Class A offenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Massachusetts classify controlled substances?

Massachusetts uses a five tier system, Class A through Class E, ranging from the most serious substances like heroin in Class A down to prescription medication in Class E, with penalties scaled accordingly.

What is the penalty for possessing a Class A controlled substance?

A first offense carries up to two years in jail, rising to up to five years in prison along with fines from $2,000 to $5,000 for subsequent offenses, given Class A’s status as the most serious classification.

Is marijuana still a controlled substance under Massachusetts law?

Marijuana is classified as a Class D substance, though possession of one ounce or less by adults 21 and older has been legal since 2016. Amounts above that threshold still fall under Class D possession charges.