What Is LSD?

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is one of the major drugs included in the hallucinogen class. LSD, commonly referred to as acid, is sold on the streets in liquid, tablet and capsule form. It is odorless, colorless, and will usually leave a bitter taste. LSD is federally defined as a Schedule I drug, which means it:

Has a high potential for abuse

Has no currently accepted medical use in a treatment

Is unsafe for consumption

Like most illicit drugs, LSD use is typically not prosecuted in the federal criminal system. More common prosecutions are for the manufacture and trafficking of the drug. Because LSD is mostly manufactured domestically, there are considerable penalties for the trafficking of LSD. Following are some examples of federal sentencing for LSD:

Trafficking 1-9 grams mixture (one dose is roughly 100 micrograms of LSD, 0.5g including the paper): First Offense Not less than 5 yrs, and not more than 40 yrs. If death or serious injury results, not less than 20 years or more than life. Fine not to exceed $2 million. Second Offense Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury results, life imprisonment. Fine not to exceed $4 million

Trafficking 10 grams or more mixture: First Offense Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life in prison. If death or serious injury results, life imprisonment. Fine not to exceed $4 million. Second Offense Not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury results, life imprisonment. Fine of not more than $8 million. More than Two Prior Offenses: Life in Prison



What Are Typical State Penalties for the Sale or Possession of LSD?

As with other illicit drugs, LSD carries penalties in most states from the minor offense of mere possession to major offenses such as distribution. Most states mirror the federal classification of LSD and have it listed as a Schedule I drug, but some states have recognized some medicinal benefit of the drug, and have it now as a Schedule II drug. The following are some common state penalties for LSD offenses:

Possession With Intent to Sell: 3-15 years in jail and a fine of $2000 to $300,000.

Possession for Personal Use (typically more than 3 tabs): 1-3 years in jail and a fine of $1000 to $25,000 (some states now have diversionary treatment plans that supplement jail time).

Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?