Nearly 500 registered meth labs can be found throughout the state of Florida. Meth, or methamphetamine, is a powerful type of amphetamine (a stimulant) and synthetic drug. Common names are crystal meth, crank, ice, or speed. It can be administered in several ways, including by smoking, snorting, injecting, or taking orally. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under federal and state law.
The popularity of meth has skyrocketed throughout the country in recent years, partly due to the fact that it can easily be created from a few simple household items. Using meth leads to devastating circumstances, but being accused of a crime involving meth adds further damage. In the state of Florida, nearly all crimes affiliated with methamphetamines are felony drug-related offenses subject to aggressive prosecution and severe penalties.
If you have been charged with a meth crime like possessing, manufacturing, or trafficking methamphetamines, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable attorney. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has served the West Palm Beach community for over 30 years, defending misdemeanor and felony offenses.
Possession of Methamphetamines
Possessing even a small amount of methamphetamines is a third-degree felony in the state of Florida. An alleged offender who is in actual or constructive possession of fewer than 14 grams of methamphetamine can face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, and a suspended driver’s license. If you face such charges, your license could be suspended for up to a full year.
One who is charged with the sale, manufacture, or delivery of methamphetamine or one who is charged with possession with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver fewer than 14 grams of meth faces second-degree felony charges. If you are convicted of such a crime, you could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, and have your license suspended for one year.
In addition, you could face consequences for possessing certain quantities of products that contain the chemicals needed to create meth. Florida Statute 893.149 prohibits people from knowingly possessing any of a list of chemicals with the intent to unlawfully manufacture methamphetamine.
Possible Penalties for Trafficking Methamphetamines
The threshold to meet trafficking charges for methamphetamines is 14 grams. Should you allegedly possess 14 or more grams of meth, the crime will be prosecuted as a drug trafficking crime for which you can face mandatory minimum penalties if convicted. Trafficking methamphetamine is a first-degree felony. The punishment grows in severity based on the quantity allegedly discovered in your possession.
- 14+ grams, but fewer than 28 grams results in 3 to 30 years in prison and a potential fine of up to $50,000. The mandatory minimum penalty is 3 years in prison.
- 28+ grams, but fewer than 200 grams results in 7 to 30 years in prison and a potential fine of up to $100,000. The mandatory minimum penalty is 7 years in prison.
- 200+ grams of methamphetamines incurs a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a potential fine of up to $250,000.
Defending Meth Possession in Palm Beach County
The facts of your case will dictate what direction your attorney chooses in selecting an effective defense strategy. Oftentimes, in cases of drug arrests, police have overstepped their boundaries and conducted searches without probable cause. If this is the case, your drug defense lawyer may be able to challenge their investigation, rendering their evidence against you inadmissible. If they discovered the substance through an unlawful search and seizure, the court may dismiss your charges.
Talk to a Meth Possession Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach
Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has helped those who have been charged with drug crimes preserve their futures. Mr. Gabriel has more than 30 years of experience helping those with criminal drug charges navigate the justice system. He will handle your case using all the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his career, and he can put his experience and influence in the Palm Beach County legal community to work in your favor.
Start with a free consultation today by calling Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel of The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Meth Charges
Is meth legal in Florida?
No. Possessing even a small amount of methamphetamines is a third-degree felony in the state of Florida.
What Is the Penalty for Carrying 14 Grams of Meth?
The threshold to meet trafficking charges for methamphetamines is 14 grams. Should you allegedly possess 14 or more grams of meth, the crime will be prosecuted as a drug trafficking crime for which you may face mandatory minimum penalties if convicted. Trafficking methamphetamine is a first-degree felony.
