Can addiction be used as a legal defense to a Utah criminal charge?

Drug addiction plays a major role in many Utah criminal cases - even cases that are not traditionally viewed as "drug crimes."  Under Utah criminal law, both voluntary intoxication and involuntary intoxication can provide a defense to criminal prosecution under certain circumstances.  An experienced Utah criminal defense attorney can help you determine whether drug addiction can become a central part of a defense strategy in a Utah criminal defense case.

While drug addiction does not create a legal defense to criminal prosecution in Utah, it can provide a significant tool in negotiating a reasonable resolution to your case.  Many Utah criminal cases stem from drug use or substance abuse.  Property crimes, white collar crimes, and even violent crimes can have their roots in drug use and substance abuse.  If a prosecutor can be convinced that the real problem is substance abuse or addiction, you may be able to obtain a more favorable offer by demonstrating your willingness to participate in substance abuse treatment.

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Stephen Howard has defended thousands of serious felony criminal charges during his career.  He has extensive experience defending drug charges in Utah, and has a record of achieving real results for his clients.  He is one of only a few criminal defense attorneys now in private practice who has worked inside Utah's drug court system.  If drugs have played a role in your life or in your criminal case, contact us now to schedule your initial consultation.