Michigan Drug Distribution Laws
By Samuel Strom, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed October 30, 2024
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The state of Michigan imposes drug charges for the unlawful distribution of controlled substances. Most drug crimes involving distribution result in felony charges, leading to years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. The severity of the crime will often depend on the quantity of drugs involved.
Michigan classifies controlled substances into five different schedules. These include prescription drugs used in an illegal manner. The schedules are:
- Schedule 1(I): Drugs with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use (heroin, LSD, and peyote)
- Schedule 2 (II): Drugs with a high potential for abuse and dependence but possess some accepted medical uses (methamphetamine, codeine, and oxycodone)
- Schedule 3 (III): Drugs with a lower potential for abuse and dependence relative to Schedule 1 and 2 controlled substances that have accepted medical uses in the United States (ketamine, anabolic steroids)
- Schedule 4 (IV): Drugs with a lower potential for abuse and dependence relative to Schedule 3 drugs that have accepted medical uses in the United States (Valium and Xanax)
- Schedule 5 (V): Drugs with negligible potential for abuse and dependence that have accepted medical uses in the United States (cough syrups with codeine)
The chart below provides a summary of laws related to Michigan's drug trafficking and distribution laws. Follow the links in the table for more information.
Michigan Drug Distribution Code Statutes |
Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL), Chapter 333, Public Health Code, Article 7 |
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Michigan Drug Distribution Crimes and Penalties |
Anyone who delivers or possesses a controlled substance with the intent to deliver it is guilty of a felony. They face the following penalties based on the amount and type of drug possessed:
Misdemeanor:
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Related Drug Distribution Offense |
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Note: Michigan state laws are subject to change through the passage of new legislation, court rulings, and other means. Consult a Michigan drug crime attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the current state laws.
Michigan Drug Laws: Related Resources
Browse the following links for more information about Michigan law and drug possession laws:
- Michigan Laws
- Michigan Criminal Laws
- Michigan Criminal Statute of Limitations Laws
- Michigan Cocaine Laws
- Michigan Heroin, Opiates, and Opioids Laws
- Michigan Drug Possession Laws
- Michigan Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing Laws
- State Cocaine Laws
- State Heroin Laws
- State Marijuana Laws
Visit FindLaw's State Codes section for more information about how other states criminalize drug offenses.
Facing Drug Distribution Charges in Michigan? Contact a Michigan Attorney
If law enforcement charges you with a crime involving the distribution of illegal drugs, you could face severe penalties. These include jail time and substantial fines. Contact a Michigan criminal defense attorney for legal help with your criminal case. Let a criminal defense lawyer examine your case and craft a defense strategy for your best possible outcome.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Michigan attorneys offer free consultations.
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