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Former Senior LA Prosecutor.
Harvard Law School Educated.
Now Providing an Aggressive Defense For You.

Los Angeles Methamphetamine Attorney

Methamphetamine use has increased significantly in recent years as the crackdown on illegal drugs at the border has led people to turn to drugs that can be manufactured and sold locally. Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as “meth,” is a highly addictive stimulant that is considered a controlled substance. In California, there are numerous drug laws that apply to the possession, sale and production of methamphetamine. Those convicted of meth-related crimes may face lengthy prison sentences.

Illegal To Possess Methamphetamine

Under California Health and Safety Code Section 11377 HSC, it is illegal to possess methamphetamine for personal use. This code section also includes controlled substances such as GHB, PCP, ketamine and certain steroids. Drugs such as cocaine, heroin, opiates, and others items are prohibited under California Health and Safety Code Section 11350 HSC. Simple possession of methamphetamine is now a misdemeanor following the passage of Proposition 47 and those convicted can be sentenced to serve up to a year in jail. Courts may consider sentencing alternatives pursuant to Proposition 36 or Penal Code Section 1000 PC that would require the defendant to undergo counseling or successfully complete treatment.

Methamphetamine Possession with Intent to Sell

If the police or prosecution believes that the defendant possessed methamphetamine with the intent to sell it, the defendant can be charged with a felony under California Health and Safety Code Section 11378 HSC. The People will often look at circumstantial evidence that would imply possession for sale, such as large quantities of methamphetamine, the presence of scales and drug packaging or the discovery of large amounts of cash. Possessing methamphetamine for sale is a felony that is punishable by up to three years in county jail. Selling methamphetamine is also a felony under California Health and Safety Code Section 11379 HSC and those convicted can be sentenced to serve up to four years in prison.

Manufacturing Methamphetamine

Manufacturing methamphetamine is also a felony under California Health and Safety Code Section 11379.6 HSC. With the right ingredients, meth can be produced in impromptu labs from any location. The production of methamphetamine involves the use of highly reactive chemicals that can result in fires or massive explosions if not handled properly. Those convicted of producing methamphetamine can be sentenced to serve up to seven years in prison. The sentence can be extended if large quantities of methamphetamine are produced in the lab, if children are present or involved in the production of methamphetamine, if someone is injured or killed during the production process or if the defendant has a prior drug-related conviction.

Even possessing the materials required to manufacture methamphetamine can lead to felony-level charges. Under California Health and Safety Code Section 11383.5 HSC, it is illegal to possess material with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine. Some materials, such as pseudoephedrine, can be found in cold medications and often individuals are arrested after purchasing large quantities of cold medicines from several different pharmacies.

Defenses Against Methamphetamine Offenses

There are various defenses to methamphetamine-related charges that may be applicable. If the meth found as the result of an unlawful search, there may be grounds to have the drug evidence suppressed. Even when there is a search warrant involved, searches that go beyond what is allowed by the warrant or warrants that rely on false affidavits may ultimately result in evidence being thrown out in court.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for a methamphetamine-related charge, it is crucial that you speak with an attorney who is experienced in handling drug cases. As a former Deputy District Attorney with over 14 years of prosecutorial experience, Michael Kraut understands how to effectively defend clients who are charged with possessing, selling or manufacturing methamphetamine and other controlled substances.

For more information about methamphetamine and methamphetamine-related crimes, and to schedule your free consultation, contact the Kraut Criminal & DUI Lawyers located at 6255 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 1520, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Mr. Kraut can be reached 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453.


Client Reviews
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is outstanding! He genuinely cared about my case and instructed my mom and I throughout the entire process. He was very clear on what he needed in order to receive the best results. He kept us updated until the end. I thank him so much for getting my charges rejected. I highly recommend him to anyone with legal needs! Shaquan
★★★★★
I contacted Michael with concern for my personal and business reputation. He was very reassuring and confident the entire time. After about 3 weeks it was determined that no charges were being filed by any agency and I was in the clear of any investigation. One thing that is amazing is just how FAST Michael is at replying to phone calls, texts, and even emails! We are talking under 30 minutes in most cases. That is unheard of for most attorneys! Michael is incredible and not your typical run of the mill attorney. For best results hire him if you feel like you might be under investigation or could face charges. Even if you know you are innocent it is best to take care of the smoke before it becomes a fire. Brad
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is-hands down-the best criminal defense attorney and I can't begin to thank him for all that he did for me and my family. I reached out to him in the middle of the night and less than a couple hours later, he had gotten back to me and scheduled a meeting. He's a no-nonsense attorney who knows how to get the job done! From the second we retained him, I had peace of mind in knowing that we were in the best hands possible. If Michael Kraut couldn't get it done, I knew that it couldn't be done at all. You can't put a price tag on your freedom. He was worth every single penny. Lida
★★★★★
Michael Kraut is an outstanding attorney. He was extremely professional, and straightforward, yet sensitive with my case. I am confident I made the right choice by hiring Michael. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a truly experienced lawyer. Daniel
★★★★★
Michael Kraut - I cannot thank you enough for all that you did for ​my son. When I came to you I read that you used to be a district attorney but I never knew how much that meant until I watch you in court. I knew it took 3 months but the final day when I heard the judge say that all charges were dismissed it was all worth it! I will always be grateful for all that you did for us. A.N.
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