There is a stigma associated with methamphetamine users, a stigma that will be associated with you if you are accused of meth possession. Though it isn’t fair, people judge you long before you have your day in court, and when you are facing methamphetamine possession charges, this doesn’t help your stress level. Not only are you up against prison time and fines, but you are also facing charges that can severely damage your reputation and your personal and professional relationships.
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Meth is a highly addictive drug. When compared with other drugs, it is relatively new on the scene. But this doesn’t mean the police or the judges aren’t on the ball when it comes to catching and punishing meth offenders. On the contrary, they are particularly interested in keeping the rates of this dangerous drug under control.
Prosecutors aggressively seek harsh penalties for defendants in meth possession cases. But you are not without options. A local criminal defense attorney can help you in making the best possible decisions regarding your case and what should be done.
Washington Meth Possession Penalties
Like other serious drugs, methamphetamine possession is classified as a Class C Felony. This means if you are convicted, you could face up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. Fortunately, a possession charge isn’t the same as a possession conviction and you still have options.
Drug Courts & Sentencing Options
“Will I Go To Prison?”
Whether or not you go to prison on a meth possession charge depends on a number of factors, your criminal history being one of the most important.
If this is your first offense, you may qualify for a First Time Offender Waiver, allowing you to avoid prison by completing drug treatment and community service, for example.
Drug courts are another option, especially designed for people who need help with a drug problem. Unlike a criminal court, you will not serve jail time in a drug court but you will be required to check in frequently with the judge, participate in drug treatment, counseling, and a number of other programs.
Finally, there is always a plea agreement. Plea agreements are where you plead guilty to the offense in exchange for a more lenient sentence. Often times you can also avoid prison using a plea agreement, the terms of which are dependent on negotiations between your attorney and the prosecutor.
There are many options available to people charged with methamphetamine possession. If you are facing charges like these and are in need of assistance, contact our offices today for a free consultation on your case.
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