Crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth, is a powerful central nervous system stimulant and street drug that can be smoked, snorted or injected, creating a euphoric high fed by a surge in the neurotransmitter dopamine. Methamphetamine is a neurotoxin, which can cause short and long term changes in the brain resulting in cognitive impairment and physical decline in the user. It is easily manufactured in laboratories or even in vehicles from inexpensive ingredients, in particular pseudo-ephedrine contained in over-the-counter cold medications, and is highly addictive.
A Tampa meth lawyer knows the legal background behind any charges associated with this drug. If you are facing charges related to possession, manufacture, or trafficking in crystal meth in Florida, you should understand that you are facing serious penalties based on the amount of drug in your possession, your prior criminal record, whether you are distributing it, and to whom. Simple possession of crystal meth can result in:
If you were found to be in possession of 14 grams or more of methamphetamine, you could be convicted of trafficking and subject to minimum mandatory sentence.
In Florida, a felony crystal meth conviction will also result in a two-year suspension of your driver’s license, the loss of your right to own a gun, loss of your right to vote or hold public office. It will also disqualify you from receiving financial aid and certain professional licenses, and from some types of government assistance.
Legal Assistance When You’ve Been Accused of a Meth Related Crime in FloridaWith such severe penalties looming, you will need to have a successful Tampa meth lawyer to represent you—one who is able to focus the necessary attention on your defense. In Tampa Bay, call the law offices of attorney Will Hanlon, a well known defender of the accused with a twenty-year track record of assisting people charged with serious crimes. Will Hanlon, at Hanlon Law Firm, will investigate the police procedure leading to your drug crime arrest, and if you were entrapped or your constitutional rights were violated, he will work to have evidence suppressed and the charges dismissed. If circumstances do not allow for dismissal of charges, he will explore other avenues of defense. He will determine if you are eligible for a diversion program that would result in the dismissal of the charges when the program is been successfully completed, or will consider whether a plea bargain in exchange for a withheld adjudication or reduction of charges is a possibility. When these options are either unavailable or unacceptable to you, he will defend you aggressively at trial, with an eye to raising a reasonable doubt that will result in your being acquitted.
Obtain Experienced Counsel ImmediatelyIt is important to call Will Hanlon and bring him on board as soon as possible for the best results. He has dealt with numerous drug crime charges, specifically dealing with crystal meth. You will receive the respect you deserve and the presumption of innocence that the law requires throughout the legal process. Will Hanlon believes passionately in the Bill of Rights and the protection it offers. He will fight tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. Don’t lose hope. Being charged isn’t being convicted, and defenses are available. Don’t take an unnecessary chance on your future. Call the Hanlon Law Offices immediately if you’ve been arrested or questioned by law enforcement. Exercise your right to remain silent, and don’t answer any questions until your lawyer arrives.