Drug Offenses

Southern Utah Drug Offense Attorney

If you or a loved one have recently been arrested or are being investigated for a drug related crime in Southern Utah, odds are you are feeling stressed, anxious, and scared. The uncertainty of what to do next when you’ve been accused of this criminal offense can be terrifying,  at a time when it is imperative you take immediate action. Most people aren’t familiar with the justice system, and many may not know what rights they have. Nathan Reeve heads the firm’s criminal defense practice and is available to vigorously help you with your criminal charges here in the St. George and Hurricane Utah areas. We deal with a number of criminal defense cases in the area.

Drug Charges

Southern Utah strictly enforces its drug laws.  Many of these laws carry hard and mandatory penalties, even for a simple misdemeanor like a possession. It is essential to involve an attorney as soon as possible to protect your constitutional rights and freedoms. 

Illegal drug possession is one of the most common charges in Utah criminal courts. The Utah Drug Possession Defense Law states it’s illegal for any person to knowingly and intentionally posses any one controlled substance.  

The possible drug possession penalties vary on grade of substance and amount that is in possession.

Drug Paraphernalia Charges

Possession of paraphernalia, or possession of drug paraphernalia, is a criminal charge involving items that are used in relation to drug crimes. Drug paraphernalia can be divided into two main categories: those used to distribute drugs and those used to ingest drugs. This distinction can be important for someone who is facing drug paraphernalia charges, especially since things like ordinary household items such as scales or spoons can be also used in the distribution or consumption of illegal drugs.

Drug Manufacturing and Cultivation Charges

Cultivating or manufacturing illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine or marijuana, is illegal under federal and state laws. Drug “manufacturing,” in a criminal law setting, occurs when an individual is involved in any step of the illicit drug production process. Those who sell certain precursor chemicals, specialized equipment, or simply offer to help produce drugs also may be charged with the crime.

The production of drugs typically is charged as a felony, with sentences including prison time, steep fines, and probation. Prison sentences and fines may be doubled for those convicted of manufacturing illegal drugs near schools and playgrounds.

Drug Trafficking and Drug Distribution

Drug trafficking is selling, transporting or importing illegal drugs. Another name for this crime is drug distribution. Drug trafficking is a federal crime and felony. This does not count as a drug possetion charge. Drug distribution or trafficking laws are determined by federal laws. They penalize the selling, transportation, and illegal import of unlawful controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and other illegal drugs. The punishment for drug trafficking can vary widely depending on several factors including the type and quantity of drugs involved, geographic area of distribution, and whether children were targeted. Sentences for drug distribution and trafficking can generally range from 3-5 years to life in prison but can be substantially higher when larger quantities are involved.

Below are possible consequences inflicted for receiving drug charges:

• Jail or Prison Time
• Large Fines
• Community Service
• Probation Requirements
• Drug Testing/Treatment