Having no prior record is helpful but it does not carry as much weight as most people hope in a possession with intent case. The outcome depends heavily on a set of factors that vary significantly from one situation to the next.
The drug involved matters enormously. Intent to distribute charges involving methamphetamine, heroin, or fentanyl are prosecuted far more aggressively than marijuana or prescription medications in most jurisdictions. The quantity is equally important. A small amount that could support a personal use argument gives a defense attorney something to work with. A large quantity with packaging, scales, or cash present tells a very different story to a prosecutor and a jury.
Aggravating circumstances compound the exposure significantly. A school zone enhancement can add mandatory time on top of the base sentence in most states. A weapon present at the time of arrest often triggers additional charges that stack on top of the distribution count.
The state where she was charged sets the sentencing framework. A typical Class C felony possession with intent statute carries up to five years in state prison and fines in the range of $5,000, but mandatory minimums in many states mean a portion of that time must be served regardless of a clean prior record. A judge's discretion is limited when mandatory minimums apply.
The most important variable right now is the quality of her legal representation. A skilled defense attorney can challenge the intent element of the charge, negotiate with the prosecution before charges are formally filed, pursue diversion or treatment alternatives where available, and in some cases get a possession with intent reduced to simple possession, which carries far less exposure. First-time offenders with good counsel in jurisdictions that offer diversion programs sometimes avoid incarceration entirely.
Get the best attorney available immediately. The early stages of this process are where the outcome gets shaped.