Drug Felony Classes in Arkansas (Plain and Simple)

Here’s how Arkansas classifies drug felonies under the Arkansas Controlled Substances Act:

In Arkansas, drug charges aren’t all the same. Some carry probation and a fine. Others carry 10 years to life in prison. The difference comes down to what type of drug, how much you had, and whether the state thinks you planned to sell it.

Arkansas law divides felony drug charges into Classes D, C, B, and Y, with Class Y being the most serious. At Ludwig Law Firm, we help clients understand exactly what kind of felony they’re facing—and fight to lower it or beat it entirely.

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Source: Ark. Code Ann. § 5-64-419 and § 5-4-401

What Is a Class D Felony Drug Charge?

A Class D felony is the least severe felony, often used for simple possession of a small amount of drugs like:

• Methamphetamine

• Cocaine

• Heroin

• Oxycodone or fentanyl (without a prescription)

While the minimum sentence may be probation, a conviction will still appear on your record, potentially affecting housing, employment, and future sentencing.

What Is a Class C or B Felony Drug Charge?

These charges usually involve:

• Higher quantities

• Intent to deliver (even without a sale)

• Repeat offenses

Examples:

• Caught with 5g of cocaine and a digital scale = Class C

• Text messages about selling + 2g of heroin = Class B

The stakes are higher. Judges often deny probation unless there’s a strong defense or diversion option available.

What Is a Class Y Felony Drug Charge?

Arkansas Class Y felonies are the most severe. You’re usually charged with Class Y if:

• You’re caught trafficking large quantities

• You’re manufacturing drugs (meth labs, pill presses, fentanyl conversion)

• The drug weight meets mandatory thresholds (e.g., over 200g of meth)

Class Y felonies carry 10 to 40 years, or life in prison.

If you’re looking at a Class Y charge, you need to call a lawyer immediately.

Can a Lawyer Lower the Felony Class?

Yes. In many cases, a skilled defense attorney can:

• Challenge the amount tested or weighed

• Suppress evidence if your rights were violated

• Negotiate a charge reduction to a lower felony or even misdemeanor

• Push for alternative sentencing, especially for first-time non-violent offenders

At Ludwig Law Firm, we take every felony charge seriously—because prosecutors do. And when a case demands a forceful courtroom strategy, we often team up with Warden Law Firm. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option.

A Felony Drug Charge Doesn’t Have to End Your Future

We’ll fight to reduce your charges and protect your record—before it’s too late. Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com for immediate help.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.