Salt Lake Criminal Defense Attorney Utah
Criminal Defense Attorney Stephen Howard
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Salt Lake Criminal Defense Lawyer - Methamphetamine Possession

Possession of methamphetamine ("meth") in Utah begins at the third degree felony level. Salt Lake criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard has extensive experience handling drug cases in Salt Lake and surrounding areas. Trusting your case to an experienced attorney is vital to achieving the best results. Contact us today to arrange for a confidential consultation.

Penalties for Possession of Methamphetamine in Salt Lake

A third degree felony for simple possession of methamphetamine in Utah is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to five years in prison. With enhancements, the level of a simple possession offense can be increased to a second degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Common enhancements to a methamphetamine possession charge in Salt Lake include possession in a drug free zone and possession with the intent to distribute. Either of these will increase the offense level from a third degree to a second degree felony. Both of these enhancements together can increase the charge to a first degree felony with a potential sentence of life in prison.

Alternatives to Incarceration in Utah Criminal Drug Cases

Studies have repeatedly shown that drug treatment is more effective and cheaper than incarceration (jail or prison) when it comes to dealing with drug addiction or substance abuse. While it may be politically popular to take a "tough on crime" approach to drug crimes, experience has shown that drug treatment actually does more good for the individual defendant, the defendant's family, and society as a whole.

While the potential punishments for methamphetamine possession are severe, an experienced Salt Lake drug crimes attorney can help convince prosecutors and judges that treatment makes more sense than extended prison or jail time. Getting involved in treatment while your case is still pending can go a long way toward convincing a judge not to send a person to prison. And if you do decide to take your case to trial, your involvement in treatment should not be used against you at trial.

Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney for Your Utah Drug Case

The issues involved in defending a methamphetamine charge in Utah can be complex. Constitutional issues, evidentiary issues, and complex procedural issues often come into play. Stephen Howard has the experience to help you navigate the criminal justice system. He has successfully protected his clients' rights in thousands of serious felony and misdemeanor cases.

Contact us today for to schedule an initial consultation and case analysis with Stephen Howard. Let us help you begin to develop the best defense strategy for your case.


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  • Selected Victories
  • Criminal Defense AttorneyDismissed - Charges of insurance fraud were brought when investigators found reason to believe that client's claim of injury was fraudulent. Client was seen kicking a soccer ball, and investigators concluded that the injury claim was false. By obtaining medical records and other administrative records, and by pointing out to the prosecutor that the alleged injury interferred with the client's ability to lift - not his ability to kick a ball - the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case.
  • Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Utah Dismissed - Client was facing multiple cases involving first-degree felony drug distribution charges for allegedly selling to a confidential informant. Defense analysis of the case revealed fatal flaws in the prosecution case that ultimately resulted in a complete dismissal of all cases and charges.
  • Utah 402 Reduction Attorney Felony Reduced - Client with prior felony conviction was granted a 402 reduction to the misdemeanor level over the objection of the prosecutor. Based on information provided to the court in support of the defense motion, the judge ruled in favor of the defense.
  • Utah Burglary Attorney Dismissal - Client was charged with first-degree felony home burglary and facing potential life in prison. Defense analysis revealed flaws in prosecutor's case which led to abeyance agreement intended to lead to a full dismissal of the case.
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Successfully defending against criminal prosecution requires more than just an 'aggressive' defense. The best defense attorneys understand that a sophisticated defense requires a thorough understanding of a variety of nuanced legal issues, real experience in the courtroom, good negotiation skills, and much more. Fighting hard is good. Fighting smart is better....

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Salt Lake Criminal Defense Attorney Profile Utah

Choosing the best criminal defense attorney for your Utah criminal case may be the single most important decision you make. The courtroom can be a hostile place. Prosecutors receive extensive training on legal and tactical issues. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side is critical to defending your case and protecting your rights....

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Even a "minor" misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. The direct penalties and collateral consequences of a felony conviction are even more severe. Understanding these consequences is critical as you make decisions relating to your case. Even in a misdemeanor case, you should not....

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Utah Criminal Defense Attorney - Hope

Facing criminal prosecution in Utah can feel like your world is collapsing. But there are reasons to remain hopeful, and there are things you can do right now that can help increase the odds of a successful outcome. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you evaluate the various options you have, and can help you....

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Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.

Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.

Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041

Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.

In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.

Stephen W. Howard, PC

The materials in this website are intended for informational purposes only, and are not legal advice. Viewing or responding to materials in this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Read Full Disclaimer.