Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed January 17, 2020
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Last updated 1/13/2020
There are several illegal activities when it comes to drugs. These activities include drug manufacturing, cultivation, trafficking/distribution, and possession. There are both federal laws and state laws that relate to drugs, and sometimes these laws conflict with each other. Take for example marijuana. While it's still illegal under federal law, many states have either decriminalized or outright legalized marijuana. This means that although you may be in conformity with your state laws, you could still be prosecuted under federal laws under the doctrine of preemption.
In North Carolina, drug manufacturing, distribution, and possession are all addressed in one statute (law). This statute not only addresses prohibited behavior when it comes to drugs, but also lays out the penalties for violating the statute.
The penalties for violating North Carolina's drug laws will depend on a variety of factors, including the particular schedule that the drug falls into. For example, under North Carolina's drug laws, marijuana is a Schedule VI drug. Selling marijuana is a felony. Possession of a small amount of marijuana, however, is a misdemeanor. It's also important to note that it's not a violation of North Carolina's drug laws (specifically relating to the prohibition of delivering a controlled substance) to transfer less than 5 grams of marijuana to someone for free.
Below you will find key provisions of drug laws in North Carolina.
| Statute(s) | North Carolina Statutes Article 5. Section 90-86, et seq. (North Carolina Controlled Substances Act) |
|---|---|
| What's Prohibited? | It's prohibited for anyone to:
|
| Charges and Penalties | The charges and penalties for violating this statute are very fact-specific. Please refer to Section 90-95 for details. In addition, North Carolina's death by distribution law makes drug dealers accountable for overdose deaths related to the sales they made. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
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The criminal charges you could face under North Carolina's drug laws vary from misdemeanors to felonies. However, a conviction -- even a misdemeanor -- could end up on your record and negatively impact your life. Whether you've been charged with drug manufacturing, distribution, or possession, it's a good idea to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss the facts of your case and to understand your options.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many North Carolina attorneys offer free consultations.
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