Party drugs like Molly (MDMA), methamphetamine, and PCP are showing up more frequently across Pennsylvania, and prosecutors are taking notice. Even a small amount of these substances can lead to serious criminal charges. If you’re arrested, the penalties can be harsh and long-lasting.
Don’t face drug charges alone. Call (412) 281-2146 today to speak with an experienced Pittsburgh drug lawyer.
Penalties for Possession of MDMA, Meth, or PCP in Pennsylvania
You can be arrested for possession even if you only have just a small amount that you intended only for personal use.
First-Offense Possession
- Misdemeanor charge
- Up to 1 year in jail
- 6-month driver’s license suspension
Second-Offense Possession
- Misdemeanor charge
- Up to 2 years in jail
- 1-year driver’s license suspension
Third-Offense Possession
- Misdemeanor charge
- Up to 3 years in jail
- 2-year driver’s license suspension
In addition to prison time and fines, you also face a tarnished criminal record that may prevent you from getting a new job or maintaining your existing one, obtaining financial aid, passing security clearance exams, or more.
If you share custody of your children, a drug conviction could be damaging to your parental agreement and you might lose some of your rights to see your kids.
What Prosecutors Must Prove in Drug Possession Cases
In Pennsylvania, for you to be convicted of possessing a controlled substance, prosecutors must prove:
- You knowingly and intentionally had control of an illegal drug.
- You knew the drugs were illegal, you knew the drugs were present, and you intended to use or control them.
- You either had actual or constructive possession of a controlled substance. In other words, you had the drug on your person, such as in your pocket, or in a spot that you had control over, like the trunk of your car or hidden under your bed.
Drug Possession Laws in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania’s Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act, it’s illegal to:
- Possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription — classified as a misdemeanor
- Manufacture, deliver, or possess with intent to deliver a controlled substance — classified as a felony
The specific charge you face depends on factors like the amount, packaging, and whether police believe you intended to distribute the drug.
Arrested for MDMA, Meth, or PCP? Here’s What to Do Next
If you have been charged with a drug offense, here’s the next steps you should take:
1. Don’t Talk to Police Without a Lawyer
What you say can, and will, be used against you. Politely decline questioning until your attorney is present.
2. Hire a Pittsburgh Drug Lawyer Immediately
A skilled attorney will:
- Review your charges and evidence
- Investigate whether the drugs actually belonged to you
- Evaluate whether the stop, search, or arrest violated your rights
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
3. Challenge the Traffic Stop or Search
If drugs were found in your car, your lawyer will ask:
- Did police have probable cause to pull you over?
- Was the search legal?
- Did officers obtain a warrant, or did they rely on questionable consent?
If your rights were violated at any point, the evidence could be thrown out.
Contact Our Pittsburgh Drug Possession Defense Attorneys Today
If you’re facing charges for MDMA, methamphetamine, or PCP possession in Pennsylvania, our criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for you. We know how prosecutors think, and how to build strong, strategic defenses that protect your freedom.
Call (412) 281-2146 or email us at advice@pittsburghcriminalattorney.com to schedule your confidential consultation.
