July 2017 - Richard P. Davies Law
Reno: 775.360.6894 Las Vegas: 702.781.3161 richard@richardpdavieslaw.com
Call Today For a Complimentary Case Review!
Drug Free Zones in Nevada: What are They and Why Should You Care?


Drug-Free Zone laws began in America under the premise that the sale and use of drugs near schools was dangerous for the children. To mitigate the risk of these kids being exposed to drug use, lawmakers enacted special laws aimed at adding on harsher terms of sentencing for offenders of current drug laws within a specified radius of a school. Often times the drug laws can be difficult to understand which is why you should always consult a drug lawyer to clear up any misunderstandings of the law. You may be wondering why these laws are necessary; shouldn’t all areas be considered “drug-free” simply because they’re illegal? Ultimately, these laws were put in place as an extra incentive not to commit drug related crimes near children. These laws vary by state in terms of zone sizes and enhanced penalties. In Nevada, the size of each drug-free zone is 1,000 ft. in every direction. What does this mean for you? Meaning, that if you are caught breaking one of our current drug laws within this radius in Nevada, you may face a much longer sentencing. Some states, including Nevada, have opted to extend the locations of which this law applies. In our state, these Drug-Free Zone laws apply to all schools including elementary, middle and high schools, trade schools, College campuses, school bus stops, playgrounds, parks, pools, video centers and arcades; pretty much anywhere you’re likely to find children. Specifically, this law applies to the following offenses: Manufacture Delivery Sale There is an important distinction to note regarding the application of this law to school bus stops. In Nevada, this...