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Criminal Defense Attorney Stephen Howard
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Utah Criminal Attorney - Methamphetamine Possession

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under Utah Code Ann. 58-37-4. At its lowest level, possession of methamphetamine in Utah is charged as a third degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Depending on the circumstances and location of the offense, or the criminal history of the defendant, enhancements can increase the level of the charge to a second or even first degree felony. If you are facing drug charges in Utah, it is vital to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with Salt Lake criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard.

Enhanced Methamphetamine Charges in Utah

Possession of Methamphetamine or Crystal Meth - Utah Criminal Attorney Salt LakeEnhancements to a methamphetamine possession charge can be added for possession in a drug free zone or possession with the intent to distribute. The level of the charge can also be increased in some cases based on the defendant's prior criminal history. These enhancements can, in some cases, increase the maximum potential sentence from five years up to life in prison.

While many Utah judges and prosecutors acknowledge that treatment may be more effective prison time in reducing recidivism, courts can and do impose prison terms in some drug possession cases. Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help give you the best chance of avoiding prison, jail time, and a felony conviction.

Defending Criminal Methamphetamine Charges in Utah

Defending a methamphetamine possession charge in Utah requires a thorough understanding of various constitutional issues (e.g. Fourth Amendment search and seizure and Fifth Amendment Miranda rights), evidentiary issues (e.g. constructive possession, police use of confidential informants, etc.), as well as the complex procedural issues that can be involved in defending felony charges.

Stephen Howard has successfully defended clients facing charges ranging from first degree felony possession and distribution to third degree felony "simple" possession charges. He is also one of only a few criminal defense attorneys in Utah who has prior experience as drug court defense counsel in one of Utah's felony drug court programs. He works closely with clients to address the legal issues involved in defending a methamphetamine charge, but he also understands that there are additional issues to address relating to drug addiction and substance abuse.

Finding a Utah Criminal Attorney in Salt Lake City

Based in Salt Lake City, criminal defense lawyer has successfully protected his clients' rights in cases including first degree felony distribution, possession with the intent to distribute, and "simple" possession cases in Utah's district courts and justice courts.

Contact us today for to schedule an initial consultation with Stephen Howard, and begin the process of formulating the best defense strategy to address your case.


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  • Selected Victories
  • Criminal Defense AttorneyDismissed - Contractor was charged with theft by deception for allegedly misusing customer funds and failing to complete work that had been agreed upon. A successful motion to quash on legal grounds following the bindover order at preliminary hearing resulted in a complete dismissal of all charges.
  • Minor Possession Alcohol - MIP AttorneyDismissed - Minor in possession charge (MIP) was dismissed by prosecutor when defense analysis demonstrated that the police had failed to obtain necessary evidence against client. Police had raided a large party involving underage drinking. Several individuals were charged, but police did not obtain evidence showing that client had personally consumed or possessed alcohol. Case was dismissed.
  • Utah Expungement Lawyer Expunged - Client with prior conviction for violent felony was ineligible for expungement through the courts. A successful 2-step reduction restored expungement eligibility and ultimately led to the court's decision to grant the requested expungement.
  • Felony Attorney Utah Dismissed - Client facing first-degree felony charge and possible life in prison for child kidnapping. Full defense analysis of the case revealed critical legal flaws in the prosecution's case. When confronted with the defense legal analysis, the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case outright without trial.
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Aggressive is good. Effective is better. The best defense strategy in any given criminal case can require in-depth analysis of the facts and a thorough understanding of applicable statutes, case law, and complex procedural and evidentiary rules. Having an experienced attorney on your side....

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Salt Lake Criminal Defense Attorney Profile Utah

With decades of combined experience, our criminal defense team attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and determination to help you achieve the results you need. Facing criminal prosecution in Utah can have serious consequences. Choosing the best attorney to defend your case may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make....

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A Utah criminal prosecution can result in a lifetime of consequences. Beyond jail and prison, a conviction can affect many areas of life, including employment, housing, finances, family, and much more. Never plead guilty without first consulting with an experienced criminal attorney. Understanding what is at stake is the first step....

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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

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