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Utah Criminal Defense Lawyer Salt Lake City

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White Collar Defense Attorney for Utah Charges

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Reasons for Hope Facing Criminal Charges

Salt Lake Marijuana Defense Attorney - Utah Criminal Lawyer

Marijuana possession charges in the Salt Lake area can result in jail time, losing your driver license, and more. As a seasoned Salt Lake criminal defense lawyer, Stephen Howard has successfully defended clients facing charges for drug possession, cultivation, distribution, drug free zone violations, and more. He has the experience necessary to help give you the best chance at success in your case. Contact us today for an initial consultation.

Criminal Charges for Marijuana Possession in Utah

While some states have legalized medical marijuana, and other states have even legalized marijuana for recreational purposes, Utah law still considers possession of marijuana to be a criminal offense. Under Utah criminal law, to support a criminal charge for marijuana possession, a prosecutor must present evidence that the defendant knowingly and intentionally possessed the marijuana. Evidence that the defendant had a prescription for marijuana from another state, or was traveling from a state where recreational marijuana was legal may be beneficial in the plea bargaining process. But such evidence is not relevant to the issue of guilt or innocence in a trial for marijuana possession.

Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Utah

Simple possession of marijuana begins at the class B misdemeanor level (punishable by up to six months in jail). A drug free zone enhancement can increase the maximum potential penalty to one year in jail. Distribution, cultivation, or even possession with the intent to distribute can result in felony charges an possible prison time.

Finding a Salt Lake Criminal Attorney

If you are facing prosecution for marijuana or other drug charges in the Salt Lake area, contact us now to arrange for an initial consultation with Salt Lake criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard. See what an experienced criminal attorney can do for your case.

Selected Victories
Not Guilty - Client was charged with aggravated assault for allegedly pointing handgun at and threatening another driver during a road rage incident. Defense investigation and analysis, combined with effective cross-examination at trial indicated the alleged victim was the initial aggressor and suported client's self-defense claim. Jury acquitted client at trial.
Dismissed - Client facing first-degree felony drug distribution charge and potential life in prison. Charges were based on allegations that client had sold drugs to an undercover police officer, then made a full confession. Successful mitigation work resulted in negotiated offer of misdemeanor plea-in-abeyance and ultimate dismissal of case.
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.
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.

Recent Posts
What should I do if I am arrested for DUI? - Many DUI cases begin as minor traffic stops. But the consequences of a DUI conviction are much more serious than an ordinary traffic citation. If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, you have specific important constitutional and statutory rights that can protect your. . . .
How do I find out if I have an outstanding warrant? - If you believe you may have an outstanding arrest warrant in Utah, a criminal defense attorney can access the Utah statewide warrant system and help you find the best. . . .

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....

Strategy »

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....

Experience »

Conviction Consequences - Utah Criminal Defense

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....

Consequences »

Utah Criminal Defense Attorney - Reasons to Hope

Never give up hope. Being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted. And it is usually not the end of the world. While the consequences of a criminal charge can be serious, there are often several options and strategies for handling your case. Understanding your options and how an experienced criminal lawyer can help....

Reasons to Hope »

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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