The difference between possessing illegal drugs and possessing illegal drugs with intent to distribute is huge in the criminal justice system. People charged with simple felony possession of drugs often get their charges reduced from felonies to misdemeanors. Simple possession cases are also more likely to be eligible for pre-trial diversion or drug court. The courts often see people charged with simple possession as drug uses or drug addicts, but not drug dealers. For this reason most judges and prosecutors believe these crimes are best resolved with chemical dependency evaluations and treatment.