Colorado Meth Charges
Despite being known for legalizing recreational marijuana use, Colorado takes drug crimes very seriously, including possession of methamphetamine (meth) and possession with intent to distribute. Meth is a dangerously powerful and addictive illegal drug, with toxic ingredients and a high risk of overdoses and health complications. Worse, there are currently no FDA-approved medications to help treat meth addiction. For these reasons, meth is a Schedule II controlled substance in Colorado, with serious, life-altering penalties for a conviction for possession, and even more severe penalties for intent to distribute.
If you are facing meth charges in Colorado, contact our Colorado Springs drug crimes lawyer to understand your rights and discuss your legal options today. Schedule your free consultation.
Facing Meth Charges In Colorado?
A 2017 global survey found meth to be the most dangerous illegal drug, with as many as 6.1% of American meth users requiring emergency medical treatment and accounting for 25% more deaths than other drugs of its class. Because of the critical dangers associated with meth use, law enforcement fights tirelessly to send meth possession and distribution suspects to prison. For this reason, facing meth charges in Colorado requires an immediate, strong defense.
Potential Defenses Against Meth Charges In Colorado
Although drug crime officers, Colorado prosecutors, and judges vigorously pursue convictions for suspects of meth drug crimes, you have the right to a robust defense. Common defense strategies in meth crime cases include the following:
- A process error occurred, such as an illegal search and seizure, or
- The meth belonged to someone other than the defendant
- The defendant wasn’t aware that they were in possession of meth
- A trace amount of meth was identified, but not enough to use as a drug
- The chain of custody was broken in the case
- Entrapment occurred in the case, such as illegal coercion or law enforcement pressure, causing the defendant to do something they otherwise would not have done
- A lab process error occurred in identifying the subject as meth
- The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence
- Law enforcement misconduct occurred in the case, such as the falsification of evidence
Meth charges in Colorado must be taken very seriously. The potential outcomes of conviction include significant prison time, financial penalties, probation, and a criminal record that limits future personal and professional potential.
Understanding Penalties for Colorado Meth Crime Convictions
Colorado CRS 18-18-404 details the substantial penalties for first-time criminal convictions in meth crimes. Without a prompt, effective defense, a suspect could face a misdemeanor conviction for methamphetamine use with up to 12 months in jail and up to $750 in fines. A conviction for possession becomes one of the following felony convictions with serious consequences:
- A Class 6 felony for possession of 2 grams or less, with up to 3 years imprisonment
- A Class 4 felony for possession of 2 or more grams, with up to 12 years imprisonment and up to $5,000 in fines
- A Class 3 felony for a conviction of intent to distribute, with up to 12 years imprisonment and up to $5,000 in fines
Prison time, fines, and probation lengths increase dramatically for second, third, and subsequent convictions. Penalties may double or triple with aggravating circumstances.
What Can a Colorado Springs Drug Crimes Attorney Do For Me?
It’s crucial to hire an experienced drug crimes lawyer in Colorado Springs as soon as possible after an arrest on meth charges. A skilled Colorado Springs drug charge attorney defends your rights and mounts an immediate, compelling defense strategy. A successful defense could result in dropped charges, a not-guilty finding in court, deferred sentencing, or a reduction from a felony to a misdemeanor conviction after undergoing a drug treatment program. Call Anaya Law Group, P.C., for prompt action in your case.