Methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth, is an extremely powerful and addictive stimulant, and individuals who are found to have manufactured, sold, or possessed meth can all expect to face serious legal consequences. Due to the illicit nature of methamphetamine, most drug charges pertaining to this substance are considered felonies, which carry steep and long-lasting punishments. Since fighting methamphetamine charges can be an uphill battle, it’s essential that you work with a highly skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney who can work hard to secure you the best possible outcome. With over 30 years of criminal defense experience, Jeffrey B. Hayden, Attorney at Law understands how to develop an effective legal strategy that will give you—and your future—a fighting chance.
Types of Methamphetamine Crimes
California law specifies a number of crimes involving illegal drugs like methamphetamine. The most minor of these offenses is the possession of meth for personal use, which is generally considered to be a misdemeanor. If convicted, you could spend up to one year in jail and/or pay a costly fine. However, many prosecutors will attempt to increase this charge to a felony offense by suggesting that you also had the intention to sell the meth in your possession. A conviction for the possession of methamphetamine for sale carries a prison sentence of up to three years. However, it is often difficult for the prosecution to prove the intent to sell, so you and your criminal defense attorney can strategize ways to poke holes in their argument.
If enough evidence exists to prove that you succeeded in selling meth to another party, this becomes a more serious felony offense that carries a prison sentence of up to four years. For the crime of manufacturing meth, a person found guilty of this felony may spend up to seven years behind bars. Also, the transportation of meth across more than two counties for the purpose of selling it increases the penalty to a possible nine-year prison sentence. Essentially, the severity of the punishments increases with the number of previous convictions the defendant has, the involvement of a minor in the transaction, and the quantity of methamphetamine in question.
Preparing a Solid Defensive Strategy
When you work with esteemed criminal defense attorney Jeffrey B. Hayden, you can rest assured that you are in safe and capable hands. His long and impressive track record speaks to his ability to examine all aspects of your case in order to build you a compelling defense. Mr. Hayden will push hard to have the charges reduced or dismissed, especially if there are ways of showing that your rights were violated during your arrest. No matter what the particular details of your case are, Mr. Hayden understands how to strategically fight for your future and your freedom. Contact our office right away to learn more.
