Possession of Methamphetamine

Possession of Methamphetamine (Health & Safety Code HSC §11377)

Defenses for Meth Possession Charges

Possession of methamphetamine is a criminal offense outlined in §11377 of the California Health and Safety Code. Under HS 11377, it is illegal to possess methamphetamine without a valid prescription.

If you were arrested for methamphetamine possession, contact our defense attorneys immediately.

Prohibited Substances Under HSC §11377

Methamphetamine is by far the most common and the most frequently prosecuted drug under this section of California law. HSC 11377 also prohibits the possession of other various controlled substances.

A few of the other controlled substances listed under HS 11377 include:

  • Certain anabolic steroids
  • Ketamine
  • PCP
  • GHB

Elements Required to Prove Possession of Methamphetamine

Simply being arrested for HS 11377, however, does not mean that you will automatically be convicted. In order to gain convictions, prosecutors must prove all of the following:

  • You knowingly possessed methamphetamine (or another controlled substance)
  • You knew the substance was present
  • You knew it was a prohibited substance
  • You were in possession of a usable amount of methamphetamine

Penalties for Methamphetamine Possession

As a felony drug crime, possession of methamphetamine is punishable by up to one year imprisonment. Fines, court fees, community service, and probation may also be additional consequences of a conviction.

Individuals with a prior conviction for a serious crime may face higher jail time and a higher fine.

Defenses for Methamphetamine Possession

Depending on the facts of your case, our Los Angeles drug crime attorneys can help create a customized defense strategy to obtain the most favorable resolution.

Some of the possible defenses for methamphetamine possession can include:

  • The substance was not yours and you were not aware of its presence
  • You have a valid prescription from a doctor for a form of methamphetamines
  • There was police misconduct when they found the substance

In some cases, fighting charges and taking cases to trial may be the best option. In others, it might not.

Are There Drug Diversion Options for Meth Possession?

Today, California has adopted a more lenient drug crime policy, meaning that certain accused individuals may be eligible for drug diversion programs.

Diversion is a type of alternative sentencing that may allow you to preserve your freedom and your criminal record while getting counseling or substance abuse treatment. You may qualify if you have been convicted of simple possession charges of methamphetamine, or other certain controlled substances, and if you meet other requirements. Many first-time, non-violent drug offenders charged with possession are eligible for drug diversion.

Our legal team can help you explore drug diversion alternative sentencing options after reviewing your case.

Call (800) 462-7160 to Discuss Your Options

Why Contact Us

The charges and penalties you face and your available defense options depend largely on the unique facts of your case. For this reason, it is important to work with experienced criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles who provide personal attention. At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our legal team is prepared to immediately review your case during a free case evaluation and inform you about the ways in which we may be able to help.

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