Tampa Methamphetamine Possession & Distribution Attorney
Methamphetamine, more commonly known as crystal meth, is a drug that is highly addictive. Under the federal drug schedules, methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance. Over the last 30 years, there have been surges in cases of methamphetamine abuse. In response to this, the federal government has increased the penalties for possession and distribution of meth, in the hopes to deter people from such actions. If you have been charged, the consequences you are facing are severe. Our Tampa methamphetamine possession & distribution attorney can help you avoid them.
What is Crystal Methamphetamine?
Unlike marijuana and cocaine, which are drugs obtained from plants, meth is manufactured using chemicals. It is usually made into pill or powder form. When meth is in powder form, it can be snorted, smoked, or injected. Methamphetamine is often called crystal meth due to the fact that it looks similar to a rock. The drug also goes by other names, such as crank, ice, glass, and speed.
Manufacturing methamphetamine is very dangerous, as it requires the use of noxious chemicals and explosives. Apartments, homes, and other structures used as meth labs usually need to be extensively detoxified due to the toxic environment of them. Often, these structures have to be torn down because that is a cheaper option than remediating the property.
What are Meth Precursors?
In addition to possessing and distributing methamphetamines, it is also against federal law to possess precursors to meth. Precursors are the chemicals used to make the drug and they include pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, norpseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine. Under federal law, purchasing a quantity of more than nine grams or precursors within a period of 30 days is considered a misdemeanor.
Penalties for Possessing and Distributing Methamphetamine
A first offense for possessing methamphetamine is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in federal prison. Subsequent offenses of possession, however, are considered felonies under federal law and they carry minimum mandatory sentences. A second offense is punishable by anywhere between 15 days and two years in prison, along with a minimum fine of $2,500. A third or subsequent offense has a minimum mandatory sentence of between 90 days to three years in prison, and a minimum fine of $5,000.
Distributing methamphetamine is a much more serious charge, so a conviction will result in even harsher penalties. The penalties for distributing meth vary depending on the amount of the drug in question. Generally speaking, distributing methamphetamine carries a sentence of five to ten years in federal prison and very high fines.
Call Our Methamphetamine Possession and Distribution Lawyer for a Consultation
If you are facing federal charges, you need sound legal advice. At OA Law Firm, our Tampa methamphetamine possession and distribution attorney can provide it and advise you of your legal options, such as whether the safety valve is applicable in your case. Our seasoned attorney can also craft a strong defense that will give you the best chance of beating the charges against you. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.
