Methamphetamine Possession: Michigan Meth Possession Lawyer
Over the last decade, the use of methamphetamine in Michigan has grown in popularity. Methamphetamine, also known as “meth,” “crystal meth,” or “ice” is a white odorless powder that is highly addictive and dangerous. Commonly abused by smoking, methamphetamine is also abused by snorting, injecting, or ingesting. Its use often leads to euphoria, paranoia, anxiety, restlessness, hallucinations, and even death. Over time, users develop a tolerance to the drug and begin to take higher doses to achieve the same high.
Referred to as Michigan’s “meth crisis,” law enforcement officials report that the use of methamphetamine continues to increase at an alarming rate. In response, federal and state law enforcement officials have passed laws carrying harsh penalties for those convicted of the illegal possession, sale, or manufacture of methamphetamine.
Facing methamphetamine possession charges? We can help! For more information about our law firm, call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free consultation or contact us with a private message.
Michigan Methamphetamine Possession
In the state of Michigan, the possession of any controlled substance or illegal prescription drug is a felony offense. Pursuant to Michigan Public Health Code section 333.7403(1), “A person shall not knowingly or intentionally possess a controlled substance, a controlled substance analogue, or a prescription form unless the controlled substance, controlled substance analogue, or prescription form was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a valid prescription or order of a practitioner while acting in the course of the practitioner’s professional practice, or except as otherwise authorized by this article.”
Schedule II Drug Classification
Controlled substances are classified into five specific “schedules.” Substances are classified into schedules based on their likelihood of causing dependency when abused and whether they have a currently accepted medical use. In the current scheduling system, methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule 2 drug. Drugs classified under Schedule 2 are considered highly addictive and have an accepted medical use with severe restrictions. Examples of other substances classified under Schedule 2 include cocaine, oxycodone, and morphine.
Criminal Penalties for Methamphetamine Possession / Methamphetamine Possession: Michigan Meth Possession Lawyer
Penalties for illegally possessing methamphetamine in Michigan are severe and include a fine of up to $15,000, up to 10 years in prison, or both. These penalties may be enhanced depending on factors such as the location of the offense committed and prior drug convictions. Michigan law requires enhanced penalties if you were in possession of a controlled substance in close proximity of a school, park, or library. Michigan law also requires enhanced penalties if you are a habitual or repeat offender.
In addition, being in possession of methamphetamine often results in driver’s license suspension. Driver’s licenses can be suspended for drug convictions even if you were not driving at the time the offense was committed. If there are one or more prior drug convictions within the last seven years, your driver’s license may be suspended for one year. If there are no prior drug convictions, your driver’s license may be suspended for six months.
The consequences of being in possession of methamphetamine can be severe and have lasting repercussions. If you have been accused or charged with possession of a controlled substance such as methamphetamine, to retain Garmo & Kiste, PLC, for assistance in these matters call us at (248) 398-7100 for a free consultation or contact us with a private message.
