Minnesota Controlled Substances Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated September 11, 2018
Involvement with illicit drugs can yield charges for drug possession or distribution. The charges often depend on the classification of the drugs involved. Both the federal government and states categorize controlled substances based on their potential for abuse.
Minnesota divides controlled substances into five "schedules". The designation of the drug is important because it affects the drug charges and penalties that you can face. Typically, the more dangerous (higher risk for abuse or addiction), the greater the charges and the higher the penalties.
Types of Controlled Substance Crimes in Minnesota
There are five degrees of crimes in Minnesota that combine various restrictions on the possession, sales, and manufacturing of drugs. The least serious of these offenses is in the fifth degree. Possession of more than 42.5 grams of marijuna is an example. Although Minnesota hasn't legalized marijuana, it has decriminalized possession to some extent; possession of 42.5 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor.
The most severe offense is in the first degree. Violations include manufacturing any amount of methamphetamine and selling meth totaling 17 grams or more, among others.
An Overview of Minnesota Controlled Substance Laws
Understanding statutes is often challenging due to the complexity and the length of the text. It helps to unpack the statutes with an easy-to-understand reference. Read the chart below for a simple overview of Minnesota's controlled substance laws.
Statutes |
Minnesota Statutes: |
Fifth Degree; Fourth Degree; Third Degree |
Fifth degree crime: Punishable by imprisonment up to 5 years; fines up to $10,000.
Fourth degree crime: Punishable by imprisonment up to 15 years; fines up to $100,000.
Third degree: Punishable by imprisonment up to 20 years; fines up to $250,000.
|
Second Degree |
Second degree: Punishable by imprisonment up to 25 years; fines up to $500,000.
|
First Degree |
First degree: Punishable by imprisonment of up to 30 years; fines up to $1,000,000.
Aggravated controlled substance in the first degree:
|
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.
Minnesota Controlled Substances Laws: Related Resources
Discuss Controlled Substance Charges with a Minnesota Attorney
Minnesota's controlled substance laws are complex. If you're facing charges, you should discuss your case with a drug crime attorney who can evaluate the strength of the case against you and viable options, specific to your case.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.