If you’ve been accused of producing drugs for sale, you face harsher penalties than if you were charged with possession or sale of a controlled substance. The majority of drug cultivation and manufacture charges in Arizona involve grow houses where marijuana and other drugs are cultivated, and labs producing methamphetamines, ecstasy, or other dangerous drugs. That’s why it’s important to speak with an experienced Phoenix drug crime defense lawyer as soon as possible. Our Phoenix Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing Attorneys at Snader Law Group not only have the legal knowledge and trial experience but we also empathize deeply with our clients, especially those that go through wrongful accusations. We are here and we can help you.
Illegal Drug Cultivation
Drug cultivation primarily concerns growing marijuana plants, but can also apply to other plant-based substances, including peyote and psychedelic mushrooms. Cultivation occasionally occurs out of doors, but more typically inside a “grow house,” where temperature and light are regulated for maximum production.
In every case, cultivation of a controlled substance is charged as a felony, with penalties varying according to the amount of the drug under cultivation, ranging from a minimum of six months in prison to a maximum of seven years.
Manufacture of Illegal Drugs
Methamphetamine and Ecstasy can be manufactured in large or small laboratories from such commonly available ingredients as pseudoephedrine, which is found in many over-the-counter cold medications, and other potentially toxic ingredients, including anhydrous ammonia, acetone, ether, lithium, and red phosphorus.
The State of Arizona has formed a special task force and passed harsh laws designed to close these facilities and prosecute those who are involved in the manufacture of dangerous drugs. For a conviction on a first offense, the owner or operator of a meth lab can be sent to prison for as long as 15 years, with a possible sentencing enhancement to 20 years if meth has been produced with a child present. Second manufacturing offenses come with a potential penalty of 20 years without parole, and subsequent convictions can be punished by up to 35 years in prison. Owners of properties where drugs are being produced risk loss of their property and other charges, even if they themselves were not involved in the production.
It is also illegal to have in your possession large amounts of those chemicals and materials that are typically used in the production and manufacture of drugs, even though the chemicals can be obtained legally.
Serious Charges Require Serious Legal Experience
If you or someone you love has been accused of drug manufacture or cultivation in Arizona, your freedom and future are at stake. This is no time to take a chance with an overworked public defender, even if your income qualifies you for one. PDs have such large caseloads they cannot give you the focused attention your case deserves and will typically push you to accept a plea bargain, which may not be in your best interest. Because the potential consequences are so severe, you need the Phoenix criminal defense attorney you can find, preferably one who is board certified.
Board Certified Drug Crime Attorney
Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the Surrounding Region
Howard A. Snader is an Arizona criminal defense lawyer with offices in Phoenix and Scottsdale who has been certified as a specialist in criminal law by the State Bar of Arizona Board of Legal Specialization since 1995. He has a powerful record of getting charges dismissed and reduced, obtaining conditional releases, and winning acquittals in jury trials for his clients. He has earned the highest AVVO rating, a perfect 10 (superb), and enjoys the esteem of legal peers as well as clients. A former Maricopa County prosecutor, he knows the workings of Arizona’s legal system from the inside out, and now uses that knowledge and experience for the benefit of his clients in his law practice, which is devoted exclusively to criminal defense. Howard is passionate in his belief in the constitutional rights of the accused and works tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for each and every client he represents.
Protect Your Constitutional Rights
For the superior, client-centered legal representation that will give you the best shot at preserving your freedom and your future, call Howard Snader as soon possible if you suspect that you are under investigation or if you have been questioned or arrested. Assert your right to counsel and your right to remain silent. Do not answer any questions until your Phoenix Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing Attorney is present to protect your rights during any interrogation by law enforcement officials.
Don’t hesitate to call, because a delay in obtaining experienced counsel can have devastating results. Your initial consultation is free of charge, and your Phoenix Drug Cultivation and Manufacturing lawyer will work out a payment plan with you that you can afford.