Methamphetamine Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia, PA
Have you been charged with possession of crystal meth or any other methamphetamine-related drug offenses? If so, your freedom may be in jeopardy as you may face severe penalties if convicted. As a Schedule I controlled substance, methamphetamine possession is punishable by harsh sentences and penalties under both state and federal law.
Although it has existed for years, methamphetamine is growing in popularity throughout Pennsylvania. In fact, 56 meth laboratories were discovered by state and federal law enforcement agencies in 2011 alone, a clear indication that the drug is becoming a growing problem.
According to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office and the PA Criminal Intelligence Center, 12 million people across America have tried methamphetamines, and 1.5 million Americans regularly use the drug. The rising problem of meth use is largely due to its low manufacturing cost, resulting in a relatively inexpensive high.
Lawmakers across the country have enacted new legislation and more severe penalties for meth possession and related charges. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies on both the state and federal level have made methamphetamine cases a top priority.
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Even if it is your first offense and you were arrested for possessing a small amount of meth for personal use, a conviction can result in jail time. In fact, a first-time offender charged with possessing less than five grams of methamphetamine may face up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. If a person has been convicted of a previous offense, they may be sentenced to two years in jail. Similarly, a third offense may result in a three-year sentence.
Due to the seriousness of a methamphetamine conviction, it is imperative that you contact an experienced and highly-skilled Philadelphia methamphetamine criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. In cases like these, the best defense is a strong offense. You need an effective, determined, and strong defense team on your side working in your best interests every step of the way.
Possession vs. Possession with Intent to Distribute
When going up against meth charges, it is critical for defendants to understand the differences between a possession of meth charge and the more serious charge of possession with intent to distribute meth. Although a conviction of possession of methamphetamine in Pennsylvania may result in substantial jail time, fines, and a lengthy probation period, it is still a misdemeanor.
Possession with the intent to distribute meth, on the other hand, is a felony in the state of Pennsylvania. As such, a conviction can result in significant fines and prison sentences, the length or amount of which depend on the amount of meth seized and various circumstances surrounding the case. An individual facing meth charges in Pennsylvania may be indicted on federal or state charges. If you are charged by the state, the following sentences may be enforced:
Fine of up to $15,000 and three years in state prison for possessing five to 10 grams
Fine of up to $25,000 and four years in state prison for possessing 10 to 100 grams
Fine of up to $50,000 and five years in state prison for possessing a minimum of 100 grams
If you have previously been convicted of committing drug-related crimes, an increased sentence or fine may apply. With charges this severe, it is a matter best handled by a skilled and qualified attorney with years of experience representing clients in drug crime cases.
Individuals charged with manufacturing methamphetamine in Pennsylvania often find themselves locked up and labeled a felon for the rest of their lives. However, there are a number of factors to take into account during any arrest. Recognizing the incongruences among these factors and quickly exploiting them can be the difference between freedom and a conviction.
Legal Defense Against Philadelphia Methamphetamine Charges
Our seasoned and highly-skilled Philadelphia criminal defense attorneys have experienced unparalleled success defending clients facing serious methamphetamine charges in counties across Pennsylvania. With unmatched skill and aggression, we have excelled in this complex and demanding area of law.
Without effective legal representation, individuals charged with possession of meth with the intent to deliver in Pennsylvania can end up behind bars for a significant period of time and forever be labeled a felon. However, there are many different factors to consider during an arrest. The proper recognition and timely exploitation of these factors can make all the difference in the world when determining a defendant’s innocence or guilt.
Our experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorneys have unsurpassed experience representing clients facing serious meth charges throughout Pennsylvania. As our track record clearly shows, we have the experience and expertise to excel in this demanding and complex area of law.
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