Salt Lake Criminal Defense Attorney Utah
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 - Charges of insurance fraud were brought when investigators found reason to believe that client's claim of injury was fraudulent. Client was seen kicking a soccer ball, and investigators concluded that the injury claim was false. By obtaining medical records and other administrative records, and by pointing out to the prosecutor that the alleged injury interferred with the client's ability to lift - not his ability to kick a ball - the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case.
  • Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Utah Dismissed - Client was facing multiple cases involving first-degree felony drug distribution charges for allegedly selling to a confidential informant. Defense analysis of the case revealed fatal flaws in the prosecution case that ultimately resulted in a complete dismissal of all cases and charges.
  • Utah Probation Attorney Released - Client absconded for more than 10 years from felony probation with Adult Probation and Parole. At an order to show cause hearing, prosecutor argued aggressively for prison. Based on effective mitigation efforts by the defense, the judge agreed to release client without further jail.
  • Violent Crimes Assalt Defense UtahProbation - Client charged with aggravated robbery based on allegations he entered a store with a gun and mask and demanded cash. Client confessed to police before hiring a defense attorney. Defense mitigation efforts resulted in a negotiated resolution that removed life in prison as a possibility, and secured a probation sentence from the court.
Best Criminal Defense Strategy

The best outcome is more likely when the right strategy is employed. Developing the best strategy can require real courtroom experience, a thorough understanding of procedural and substantive legal issues, and a determination to ensure that important constitutional and other legal rights are protected. Choosing the right attorney....

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Salt Lake Criminal Defense Attorney Profile Utah

Defending against a criminal prosecution in Utah is a job that has to be done right the first time. Choosing the right attorney to defend you can be the most important decision you make. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling some of the most serious felony and misdemeanor charges on the books in Utah. No matter what charges you are facing, we can help....

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Conviction Consequences - Utah Criminal Defense

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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Utah Criminal Attorney - Reasons to Hope

An arrest is not a conviction. If you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah, it can feel like your world is collapsing. But there are things you can do right now that can increase your chances of a good outcome. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you evaluate the various options available to you and help develop a strategy for success....

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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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