If you’re accused of obtaining and having in your possession methamphetamine, it’s important that you do take steps to address that accusation and protect your interests. It is not legal to manufacture, sell, create, deliver or otherwise possess methamphetamine without a legal exception in North Carolina.
Methamphetamine is a controlled substance and may be found under Schedule II of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s drug schedule. As such, it does have some medical purposes, but it may only be possessed or created by those with a prescription or other legal authority.
What are the penalties for manufacturing methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine manufacturing charges may lead to a Class C felony except for in a few cases, such as if the offense involved:
- The packaging or repackaging of meth
- Relabeling or labeling a container of methamphetamine
In those two cases, the charge will be a Class H felony.
The possession and transportation of methamphetamine could lead to charges, too
Possession can lead to trouble, too. If you possess methamphetamine, you could face a Class I felony. If you sell, possess, transport, deliver or manufacture methamphetamine in an amount of 28 grams or more, then you will face trafficking charges and face a felony as well. The level of the felony depends on the quantity you have in your possession.
- Less than 200 grams, but more than 28 grams, leads to a Class F felony
- Over 200 grams but less than 400 grams leads to a Class E felony
- 400 grams or more can be penalized with a Class C felony
It’s important to know that methamphetamine charges vary significantly depending on how much you have in your possession and if you face possession, manufacturing, trafficking or distribution charges. No matter what kinds of charges you face, it’s always a good idea to start building your defense. The truth is that you could face up to hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines and years behind bars if you are accused and convicted of possessing methamphetamine for sale or distribution.
The penalties are harsh, so it’s worth getting to know your options for a defense and working toward a resolution of your case.