Salt Lake Drug Possession Defense Lawyer - Utah Criminal Attorney

The consequences of a conviction for drug possession in Utah can carry consequences including jail time, prison time, and thousands of dollars in fines.  There are a number of options for defending against drug charges in Salt Lake.  Defense options can include drug motions to suppress, jury trials, pleas in abeyance, drug court and more.  Stephen Howard is an experienced Salt Lake criminal defense attorney with extensive experience defending Utah drug cases, ranging from first-degree distribution to misdemeanor marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia.

The level of drug possessions charge in Salt Lake typically depends on what drugs are involved.  Possession of marijuana and some prescription drugs typically begins at a misdemeanor level.  Most common "street drugs" (e.g., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and many prescription drugs, including methadone, begin as third-degree felony charges.  Utah drug possession charges can be enhanced if police or prosecutors suspect that the defendant had the intent to distribute the drugs.  A simple possession charge in Salt Lake is often enhanced if the defendant is determined to have possessed the controlled substance withing the boundaries of a "drug free zone."  Given the density of development in the Salt Lake County area, "drug free zones" are widespread, and this enhancement is commonly added both to simple possession and to drug distribution charges in Salt Lake.  Enhanced penalties can also be imposed if a person is found in possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

Many people who are charged with drug crimes in Salt Lake courts are also struggling with addiction or substance abuse.  Stephen Howard's experience in Salt Lake drug courts has provided him with insights into issues surrounding addiction, and an understanding that addressing addiction is critical in finding a long-term solution to his clients' legal problems.  If you have been charged with drug possession or other drug-related charges, one of the most important decisions you will face is choosing the best attorney to handle your case.  Stephen Howard's experience both in Salt Lake drug courts and in fighting drug charges in the traditional court system can be an invaluable asset to your case.  

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with Salt Lake criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard.