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Criminal Defense Attorney Stephen Howard
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Utah Criminal Defense Attorney - Cocaine Possession

Cocaine is considered a Schedule II controlled substance under Utah law. This makes possession of cocaine a criminal offense punishable under Utah law beginning at the third degree felony level. With enhancements, the penalties can be as high as life in prison. Any criminal charge is serious. But a felony charge potentially carries more serious consequences. If you are facing felony drug charges in Utah, you should consult with a Utah criminal defense attorney with extensive experience defending drug charges.

Stephen Howard has successfully defended drug cases ranging from first degree felony distribution to simple possession. He also is one of only a few Utah criminal defense attorney in private practice who has previously served as defense counsel for a Salt Lake felony drug court program. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Utah

Utah Drug Charges Cocaine Possession Salt LakeMost cocaine possession charges in Utah are filed as third degree felonies, with a maximum punishment of up to five years in prison and approximately $9,000 in fines and surcharges. Enhancements based on proximity to a drug free zone, prior convictions, or the intent to distribute can each increase the level of a cocaine possession charge by one level to a second degree felony. Combined enhancements can increase the level of the charge as high as a first degree felony with life in prison as a possible sentence.

While most prosecutors and judges acknowledge that drug treatment may be more appropriate than extended prison sentences in many cases, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can increase your chances of staying out prison, staying out of jail, and keeping a felony off your record.

Defenses to a Cocaine Possession Charge in Utah

There are multiple facets to defending any cocaine possession case in Utah. There are a number of legal issues to consider, including: possible Fourth Amendment violations (search and seizure issues); possible Fifth Amendment violations (Miranda violations); and evidentiary issues (the use of confidential informants, witness reliability, constructive possession, etc.).

In addition to legal and factual defenses, treatment concerns should also be considered in assessing any cocaine or other drug possession charge in Utah. If a prosecutor or judge is convinced that treatment and addiction issues are being appropriately addressed, the judge and prosecutor may be much less likely to consider jail or prison time as being necessary in a cocaine possession case. Prosecutors may also be more likely to agree to a plea in abeyance if a defendant is successfully engaged in substance abuse treatment.

Choosing a Utah Criminal Attorney in Salt Lake

The potential consequences of a cocaine possession conviction in Utah are serious. The consequences of continuing to struggle with cocaine addiction are perhaps even more serious. If you are being prosecuted for drug possession, you need a Utah defense attorney who understands both sides of a drug possession case, and works with his clients to formulate the best strategy for addressing the issues involved in Utah drug possession cases.

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


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  • Selected Victories
  • Criminal Defense Trial AttorneyNot Guilty - Client was charged with aggravated assault for alleged attack using broken bottle as a weapon. Despite the testimony of numerous prosecution witnesses, thorough defense investigation to support a self-defense claim resulted in acquittal by jury at trial.
  • 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.
  • Utah Burglary Attorney 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.
Best Utah Criminal Defense Strategy

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....

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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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In Utah, even a "minor" misdemeanor conviction carries the potential for jail time and significant fines. A felony conviction carries the potential of lengthy prison terms and the various consequences that come with being labeled as a convicted felon. Never plead guilty without first finding out....

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Criminal Defense Attorney in Utah - Reasons to Hope

Clients sometimes ask what the "worst case scenario" is for their charges. We prefer to take a more positive approach. Facing criminal prosecution in Utah can have serious consequences. But you can take steps and make choices right now that will improve your chances of a positive outcome. Let us 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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