Drug charges can be unnerving and create uncertainty about what your future may look like, especially in a state that takes a strict approach to drug crimes. What you don’t know and what you may say can hurt you if you do have the representation of a good meth possession with intent to distribute lawyer in Goodyear. They will safeguard your rights as they defend you from allegations.
Suzuki Law Offices provides stability and support when you’re facing drug charges, either on a state or federal level. A Goodyear possession with intent to distribute lawyer creates a tailored defense designed to get results and minimize the impact of the charges. With approximately two decades of experience, our team is equipped to handle these types of cases and get you a better outcome.
Hire a Goodyear Meth Possession With Intent to Distribute Lawyer
When faced with a meth possession with intent to distribute charge, you need to have a strong defense at the ready. Your Goodyear federal drug crimes lawyer will carefully review the case against you during discovery and, with our team’s background as prosecutors and law enforcement investigators, will ensure that your defense is strong enough to withstand the allegations against you. Defenses your lawyer may use may include:
- Lack of knowledge or control about meth possession
- Lack of intent to distribute or sell meth
- Entrapment
- Illegally obtained evidence
- Mishandling of evidence
- Violations of due process or other rights
Your Goodyear federal crimes lawyer will ensure that your defense is adapted to the specific needs of your case. They’ll also carefully assess how to proceed so your case is optimized for favorable results. A strong defense can get your charges reduced, dismissed, or even get you acquitted.
Depending on your situation, your Goodyear criminal defense lawyer may also recommend a plea bargain or a diversion program to help avoid or minimize prison time.
Factors That Contribute to Meth Possession With Intent to Distribute Charges in Goodyear, AZ
Until being overtaken by fentanyl use, meth has been a significant problem in Arizona for many years. Common forms of meth include powder, crystals, and rocks, which may be snorted, smoked, taken orally in pill form, or injected into the body. This drug is synthetic and generally affects the central nervous system. This drug is classified as dangerous because of its highly addictive qualities.
When it comes to charges, possession with intent to distribute is a more serious charge than possession. If an individual is found to have 9 grams of meth or more in their possession (A.R.S § 13-3401), then law enforcement will conclude that the drug will be distributed to others since the amount is excessive for personal use. Paraphernalia will also be considered, as it implies that it will be distributed.
Additionally, law enforcement and prosecutors will evaluate actual vs constructive drug possession in Arizona. What this means is that if an individual has full control over meth, they are in actual possession of it. Constructive possession means control over the location of the drug, which may or may not be in their immediate presence. These factors and distribution intentions can create a complex legal situation.
Arizona Penalizes Meth Possession With Intent to Distribute Crimes Harshly in Its Efforts to Crack Down on Drug Crimes
As a dangerous drug, meth possession with intent to distribute charges come with heavy penalties. According to A.R.S. 13-3407, individuals could face Class 2 or Class 3 felony charges and be subject to fines and prison time if convicted. Arizona punishes these offenses more strictly because of the intent to distribute the drug to others.
For meth charges in particular, offenders could be looking at five to 10 years in prison, depending on the severity of their offense, if convicted and sentenced. However, this amount of time may be increased if an individual has a prior conviction. In which case, prison time could be elevated to 10 to 20 years instead. Individuals are also not generally eligible for probation for meth-related offenses.
With these potential sentence possibilities on the table, it is critical to let a lawyer fight for you. A meth possession with intent to distribute attorney in Goodyear will protect your rights when they represent you and provide an overview of criminal defense in Arizona, so you can be prepared for the various potential outcomes in your case. They will aggressively fight to protect your freedom.
How Aggravating and Mitigating Factors Can Impact Your Case in Goodyear, AZ
When penalties are being considered in your case, aggravating and mitigating factors will be taken into consideration. These factors are designed to provide additional context that can influence your charges for better or worse. In A.R.S. 13-701, state law outlines the conditions under which charges and sentencing may be increased or decreased.
In terms of aggravating factors, if an offender’s actions contributed to serious injury or death, harmed an elderly or disabled individual, worked with an accomplice, received payment, or was convicted of a felony in the last 10 years, they could face harsher punishments and extended jail time. These and other conditions may elevate the charges against individuals and reduce the chance of avoiding charges.
Conversely, mitigating factors lessen charges and sentences. For example, if an offender shows remorse for their crime, committed it under duress, had minor involvement, or complied with law enforcement, to name a few examples, then they may be eligible for reduced charges and can minimize the outcome of their case. Your lawyer will present mitigating factors in your case along with your defense.
Contact Suzuki Law Offices Today to Get Started on Your Defense
When you’re facing possession with intent to distribute charges for meth, Suzuki Law Offices represents you and makes sure that you’re treated fairly during the legal process. We use our knowledge of the local criminal justice system to secure results.
To discuss your options and retain legal representation, schedule a free consultation with a Goodyear meth possession with intent to distribute attorney today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form