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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  • Criminal Defense AttorneyDismissed - Contractor was charged with theft by deception for allegedly misusing customer funds and failing to complete work that had been agreed upon. A successful motion to quash on legal grounds following the bindover order at preliminary hearing resulted in a complete dismissal of all charges.
  • 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 402 Reduction Attorney Felony Reduced - Client with prior felony conviction was granted a 402 reduction to the misdemeanor level over the objection of the prosecutor. Based on information provided to the court in support of the defense motion, the judge ruled in favor of the defense.
  • 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 Utah Criminal Defense Strategy

The right criminal defense lawyer can work with you to develop a defense strategy designed to achieve the best results. Hiring a Utah criminal attorney with real courtroom experience and an in-depth understanding of the legal issues involved in defending against a criminal prosecution can help ensure the best...

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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....

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Even a single misdemeanor conviction in Utah can result in extended jail time and substantial fines. The collateral consequences of a criminal conviction can last a lifetime. Whether you are facing misdemeanor prosecution in a justice court or more serious felony charges in the district court, obtaining advice and assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney is....

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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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