Were you charged with methamphetamine possession in San Diego, CA? The charges and penalties for meth possession are steep, so you have to act fast. Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers is ready to step in and start building your defense today.
We’ll bolster your defense with more than a decade of criminal law experience and knowledge. We have helped countless individuals beat tough drug charges like yours–we’re successful in getting many charges dropped completely or reduced. We know that your freedom is at risk, and we know the stakes are high; you can count on our full attention and resources.
Initial consultations are free–so don’t wait any longer. Call now at (619) 357-4977 to let us get started fighting for you in San Diego, California.
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How Can Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers Help with a Methamphetamine Possession Charge in San Diego?
We know the criminal justice system inside and out. We know when charges are likely to be reduced and when going to trial may be your best bet. We will always be straight with you and provide solid legal advice throughout your case.
You can count on our San Diego drug crimes lawyers to:
- Review the state’s evidence and look for weaknesses that can get your charges dropped or reduced
- Analyze the chain of custody of evidence to look for errors
- Review police conduct to look for violations of your civil rights
- Negotiate with the DA for lesser charges
- Provide a vigorous defense in court, if your case goes to trial
We know how serious a drug charge is for you and your future. It can affect your job, your relationship with your kids, and your reputation. We understand the urgency, and we get to work right away when you call. We offer free consultations, so contact us today to let us get started.
What Is Meth Possession in California?
California Health & Safety Code 11377 prohibits possession of any usable amount of methamphetamine or other narcotic without a prescription. If you’re caught with possession of a small amount, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. Larger amounts usually result in felony charges.
To be convicted of possession of methamphetamine, the state must prove:
- You possessed a usable amount of methamphetamine
- You knew that you possessed the drugs or substance
- You knew the substance was a controlled substance
Possession of a drug can involve actual possession or constructive possession. Actual possession generally means that the drugs were found on your person or that you physically had control over the drugs–like if they were in your pocket.
Constructive possession means that you didn’t have immediate physical control of the drugs, but you had access and control over the area where the drugs were found. This can be trickier to prove, and you might not have had exclusive access or control of the area. If the meth was found in your car, that’s constructive possession.
California also recognizes “joint possession” when you share possession with another person.
Other Methamphetamine Possession Charges
Methamphetamine possession can be part of a number of other crimes. Larger amounts or certain circumstances could mean charges for:
- Being under the influence of meth
- Possessing methamphetamine with the intent to sell
- Selling methamphetamine
- Manufacturing meth
- Transportation of methamphetamine
- Drug trafficking
Most of these are felony charges. The district attorney’s office will try to tack on as much as they can. We’re not intimidated by their tactics, and we push back on every piece of evidence they try to get admitted. We’ve got your back no matter what the charges.
What Are the Penalties for Meth Possession in CA?
Penalties can vary depending on how much methamphetamine was in your possession, other circumstances of your arrest, and your criminal history.
Possession of small amounts of methamphetamine may be charged as a misdemeanor, and you could face:
- Up to $1,000 fine; and/or
- Up to one year in county jail.
If you have larger amounts, or if you have a prior conviction for a sex offense or another serious crime, meth possession may be charged as a felony.
If you are convicted of felony methamphetamine possession in California, you could face:
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison; and/or
- Fine of up to $10,000
You may be eligible for a diversion program if you’re just charged with simple possession and don’t have a criminal history that bans you from participating.
How Can I Defend Myself Against a Meth Possession Charge?
Getting charged with drug possession is scary, but there are several possible defenses.
Depending on the facts of your case, possible defenses could include:
- You didn’t possess the meth
- The meth belonged to someone else
- You had a prescription for the meth and possessed the amount consistent with the prescription
- You were delivering the meth to someone who had a prescription for it
- The meth was seized during an illegal search
- The police illegally arrested you
Rest assured that we will look for all possible options when building your defense. Whether it’s getting evidence tossed or charges reduced, we work diligently to get you the best possible outcome.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a San Diego Methamphetamine Possession Lawyer
Were you arrested for methamphetamine possession in San Diego? You deserve the experience, knowledge, and training of our top-rated San Diego methamphetamine possession lawyer. Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers is ready to get started working on your behalf today.
Don’t wait–call now for a free consultation.
Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Office in San Diego, CA
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers
225 Broadway Suite 1740
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 357-4977
