Arrested for Meth Possession in Pennsylvania?

Fight Back With an Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer!

If you are accused of methamphetamine possession, I know you are under a significant amount of stress. Not only are you facing possible prison time, but a permanent criminal record. The stakes are high when up against charges like these, and you need someone in your corner now more than ever.

Because of its highly addictive nature, meth is treated very seriously in the Pennsylvania courts. When you are caught with meth, you can expect to be treated like an addict, whether or not you have a drug problem. It’s unfair—but it’s reality.

Proving "Possession" in Court

In order to convict you of a meth charge, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly and deliberately possessed a controlled substance, that it was meth and you knew it was meth, and that you had control of the drug. You do not have to have the meth in your pocket, merely be in control of it.

This means you can be tried and even convicted for drugs that were near you, on your property, or within your reach. If someone stashes drugs in your car and the jury doesn’t believe that you didn’t know about it, you could be convicted. If the police arrive on the scene to find drugs at your feet on a busy city street corner, you could be arrested.

Pennsylvania Meth Possession Laws & Penalties

Generally, those charged with methamphetamine possession are accused of possessing less than 5 grams. If this is the case, and it’s your first such charge, you will face up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 in fines. If this is your second offense, you’ll face 2 years and 3 years for a third offense.

However, if you are accused of possessing more than 5 grams, you could face a mandatory minimum sentence—no less than 3 years for a first time conviction.

With every conviction, you also stand to lose your license for at least 6 months, if not more.

Drug Possession Plea Bargains

For those people who simply want to put the case behind them, a plea bargain may be a good option. The majority of Pennsylvania meth possession cases end with a plea bargain. You agree to plead guilty for a portion of the charges against you in exchange for a lenient sentence. The specific terms of the plea bargain, of course, depend on the circumstances of your case and the negotiations between your defense lawyer and the prosecution.

Drug Courts

The state of Pennsylvania operates a system of drug courts that are focused on helping people with drug problems. These involve an intense period of supervision, similar to probation, and also include drug treatment.

Each case is unique, as is each defendant. The best option for your particular case depends on a number of factors, including your own particular input. If you are charged with methamphetamine possession, contact us today to discuss your case and how we might be able to help.

  For a free, criminal defense legal consultation on any meth possession or other drug charge in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, call us:

(888) 412-3298

We represent clients in criminal cases in courts across Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Lebanon, Carlisle and Lancaster, and  Bucks, Montgomery, Northampton, and Lehigh Counties.

In Western Pennsylvania, we cover areas including the Pittsburgh, PA metro area and Allegheny County.

Call today, no obligation!
(888) 412-3298