By Samuel Strom, J.D. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed October 30, 2024
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The federal government and the states each have drug laws on the books. Sometimes, those laws conflict with each other. For example, Michigan has legalized marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes. However, marijuana is illegal at the federal level.
Drug laws are distinguished by the conduct involved. This means that different penalties exist for drug manufacturing, distribution, and possession. Michigan's drug possession laws are separate from its drug cultivation/manufacturing and distribution laws.
Both the federal and state governments classify controlled substances into different schedules. The more dangerous a drug is, the higher the penalties one will face if convicted of possession.
Schedule 1 (Schedule I under federal law) controlled substances are the most dangerous drugs, meaning they have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical uses. Examples of classified controlled substances in Michigan are as follows:
The following chart provides key provisions of Michigan's drug possession laws and criminal penalties. For more information, visit FindLaw's Drug Charges section.
Michigan Drug Possession Law Code Section |
Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) Chapter 333
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Drug Possession Crimes in Michigan |
Per MCL 333.7403, it's prohibited for a person to possess the following with knowledge and intent:
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Michigan Drug Possession Charges and Penalties |
Anyone who violates MCL 333.7403 by possessing a Schedule I or II narcotic drug, including mixtures, in the following amounts is guilty of a felony and faces the following punishments upon conviction:
Under MCL § 333.7403, possession of the following are misdemeanors:
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Related Michigan Drug Possession Statute(s) |
Michigan Compiled Laws |
Note: Michigan state laws are subject to change through passage of new legislation and other methods. Consult a Michigan criminal defense lawyer or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you'd like more information about drug-related laws in the state of Michigan or across the United States, visit the links below:
For more information about other states' laws, visit FindLaw's State Codes section.
A conviction for the possession of drugs in Michigan can lead to a prison sentence and thousands of dollars in fines, depending on the amount and type of drugs involved. If law enforcement charges you with a crime under Michigan's drug laws, contact a Michigan drug crime attorney. A criminal defense attorney's legal representation and advice can help in drug possession cases.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Michigan attorneys offer free consultations.
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