Los Angeles Meth Lawyers
Skilled Criminal Defense Against Los Angeles Meth Charges
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It causes increased activity and talkativeness, a pleasurable sense of well-being or euphoria, and decreased appetite. Because of its high potential for widespread misuse, meth has been classified as a Schedule II controlled substance that is only available through a non-refillable prescription.
Drug crimes involving methamphetamine are a serious matter in California. If you are facing meth charges, it is in your best interests to speak with an experienced Los Angeles drug crime defense lawyer as soon as possible.
What Are the Possible Meth Charges in California?
Possible meth drug charges in California include the following:
- Possession of methamphetamine: Meth possession is a misdemeanor that carries up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 for first offenders. You may be able to have jail time probated if you attend a substance abuse program under a California drug diversion program.
- Possession of meth for sale: Possession for sale is a more serious offense than simple possession. It is a felony punishable by 16 months, two years, or three years in state prison. Sentencing may be enhanced with aggravating factors, such as possessing more than one kilogram of methamphetamine.
- Transportation of methamphetamine: This is a felony offense that carries a prison sentence of two, three, or four years. If meth is transported across two counties, prison time may be increased to three, six, or nine years.
- Sales or distribution of methamphetamine: The sale of meth is a felony punishable by up to four years in jail or state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Sentencing may be enhanced if a weapon is involved or if you have prior convictions.
What Are California's Laws on Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance in California. It is included in a more dangerous category of drugs with limited medical use and a high potential for abuse. Possession of meth is a serious crime that is charged as a felony. Possession, transportation, possession with intent to sell, manufacturing, and sale or distribution of methamphetamine are prohibited under the California Health and Safety Code at Section 11377, Section 11378, and Section 11379.
What Are the Legal Defenses Against Meth Charges in California?
The burden of proof is on the prosecution in a criminal trial. Our experienced Los Angeles meth attorney can thoroughly examine the prosecution's case against you and challenge every flaw. We can assert every applicable defense in negotiations for a plea bargain or while defending you against the charges in court. Common legal defenses against methamphetamine drug charges include the following:
- You did not have knowledge that you were in possession of methamphetamine or that it was a controlled substance.
- The methamphetamines did not belong to you.
- You were in possession of only trace amounts of meth.
- You were in possession of meth for personal use only and not for sale.
- You were not transporting meth for sale or distribution.
- Your constitutional rights were violated in an illegal search and seizure.
- The accuracy of drug testing methods or measurements used to determine the amount of meth involved is in question.
What Are the Consequences of a Meth Drug Crime Conviction?
Methamphetamine drug crime charges can carry severe criminal penalties and have serious consequences for your freedom and future prospects. Consequences of a conviction may include a lengthy jail or prison sentence, heavy fines, and suspension or revocation of your driver's license if the crime involves DUI. It will leave you with a criminal record that can affect your future employment, housing, and other opportunities. For non-citizens, a felony conviction can have serious immigration consequences, including possible deportation.
Contact Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 for skilled criminal defense against meth charges in California.
Contact Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP Today
Phone: (213) 688-0460 
Fax: (213) 624-1942
Recent Case Results
- Complete Dismissal of Molestation Charges
Attorney Mark Werksman’s 29 year old client was falsely accused of molesting two neighborhood children and was subsequently charged with felony child molestation, with a significant prison sentence hanging over his head should he be convicted. Instead, at the preliminary hearing Werksman was able to convince the court to grant his client a complete dismissal of any charges. - Decision Set Aside
Client, a college student in a faulty Title IX case, was awarded $130,000 in attorney fees. - Probation with No Jail Time for Drug Money Laundering Charge
Wilmington man accused in New York federal court of laundering drug money through the sale of laptop computers. Mark was able to get the case transferred to federal court in Los Angeles, where he convinced the United States Attorney to reduce the charges. His client was sentenced to probation with no jail time on a misdemeanor conviction.
