Amount of drug found: Whether for possession or delivery charges, the actual amount of the drug found can affect penalties and fines if found guilty. The quantity of drug found makes a big difference in particular for determining if charges apply for marijuana possession. Criminal history: As with most crimes, a person’s criminal history plays a role in determining the severity of punishment and level of fines in a drug charge in Vancouver and throughout Washington state. A first-time drug offender can generally expect a lesser sentence than someone with a history of drug crimes. Presence of a weapon: If a weapon is found on the accused during a search and seizure, this heightens the seriousness of the drug charge and can actually introduce new charges leveled against the defendant in certain situations.