Alabama § 40-17A-1 - Definitions.

Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 40-17A-1 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 40-17A-1. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the following words shall have the meanings herein ascribed, except where the context directly requires otherwise:

(1) COMMISSIONER. The Commissioner of Revenue.

(2) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE. Any drug or substance, whether real or counterfeit, as defined in the Alabama Uniform Controlled Substances Act, that is held, possessed, transported, transferred, sold, or offered to be sold in violation of Alabama laws. “Controlled substance,” as used in this chapter, does not include marihuana.

(3) DEALER. A person who in violation of Alabama law manufactures, produces, ships, sells, uses, distributes, transports, or imports into Alabama or in any manner acquires or possesses more than 42 1/2 grams of marihuana, or seven or more grams of any controlled substance, or 10 or more dosage units of any controlled substance which is not sold by weight, or dosage units, shall include the weight or dosage units of the substance whether pure, impure, or diluted, in the dealer’s possession. A quantity of a controlled substance is diluted if it consists of a detectable quantity of a pure controlled substance and any excipients or fillers.

(4) DEPARTMENT. Department of Revenue of the State of Alabama.

(5) DOSAGE UNIT. A tablet, capsule, vial, or ampule of a controlled substance or, in cases of mass volume or diluted quantities, the proper dose or quantity of a controlled substance to be taken all at one time or in fractional amounts within a given period, as defined and adopted by the United States Pharmacopeia.

(6) MARIHUANA. Any marihuana, whether real or counterfeit, as defined in Section 20-2-2, that is held, possessed, transported, transferred, sold, or offered to be sold in violation of Alabama laws.

(7) POSSESSION. For the purposes of this chapter, to include either actual possession, or constructive possession, or a combination of both actual and constructive possession.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 40-17A-1

What does Code of Alabama § 40-17A-1 cover?

Section 40-17A-1 ("Definitions.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Alabama § 40-17A-1?

A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 40-17A-1" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Alabama law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.

How does Alabama § 40-17A-1 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.