This is the first post in what will be a series on the handling of methamphetamine charges in Phoenix, Arizona. I have decided to address this topic due to the increasing use of methamphetamine over the years and a decreasing level of patience from Judges and prosecutors in terms of dealing with the drug. If you or a loved one have been arrested for offenses involving methamphetamine, then it is imperative that you seek legal representation immediately.
I will be discussing a many topics over my next few posts. Subjects I will be looking at will include:
- The serious nature with which Arizona takes methamphetamine cases
- How search and seizure issues impact such cases
- What to understand if one is serving probation for a methamphetamine-related offense
It is important to understand these topics so that defendants appreciate the gravity of their situation. While it is true that America’s attitude towards marijuana is quickly changing, the same cannot be said about methamphetamine. It is a drug that is treated more harshly under Arizona law than other narcotics and prosecutors will aggressively pursue charges. As I will discuss in the coming posts, crimes involving “meth” are not Prop 200 eligible. This means that probation is no guarantee for a first offense.
It is important that you not feel your case is open and shut simply because police found you with the drug. There may be issues as to whether prosecutors can prove the intent of possession, law enforcement may have violated rights you have under the Fourth Amendment, and there may be other defenses available. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately if you are charged with this offense. In addition to Phoenix, we service Maricopa County areas such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert as well as Pima County residents in Tucson.
