Drug Manufacturing

A person may be arrested on a drug manufacturing charge based solely on the possession of equipment, or in some cases, the ingredients used in the manufacture or cultivation of any illegal or controlled substance such as meth (methamphetamine), crack, or ecstasy. The process of manufacturing a drug is referred to as “cooking”. A building, trailer or other space which holds the equipment used in the manufacture of a drug is often called a “lab”. While some drugs are made or manufactured with chemicals in a “lab”, such as methamphetamines, other drugs are grown, or cultivated, such as marijuana plants. 

Production of marijuana and the associated penalties are determined based on the total amount of marijuana a person is accused of possessing.  If the amount of marijuana is less than two pounds, it is a Class 5 Felony, if it is two pounds but not more than four pounds, it is a Class 4 Felony and if it is greater than 4 pounds then it is a Class 3 Felony.  The penalties for marijuana production can range from prison terms of nine months to seven years in prison, based on the amount a person is convicted of possessing among other factors, such as prior convictions. Given the potential for such harsh penalties, it is advisable to seek the counsel of an attorney who has significant experience in defending against drug manufacturing crimes.

In the State of Arizona, drug manufacturing is a Class 2 felony offense. Possession of manufacturing equipment or ingredients is a Class 3 felony. In addition to harsh jail or prison terms, your property may be seized by the government, whether you were involved or not. Even after being exonerated, you may face an arduous battle to get your assets released and returned to you. Working with a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer who has a proven track record in resolving complex drug related crimes could have a significant impact on the outcome of your drug crime case.

If you are facing manufacturing charges, an experienced Phoenix criminal defense attorney could be of significant assistance in helping you fight your case. Mr. Buckallew has been defending individuals against drug crimes and many other criminal violations for the past 20 plus years and has significant experience in litigating all types of criminal cases.

Mr. Buckallew is an experienced criminal defense lawyer with over 20 years of experience both in criminal litigation as well as forensic science, holding a Master's in Forensic Science degree in addition to his law degree. Having an attorney trained in both the law and forensic science is critical given the growing importance of forensic science in criminal litigation. Whether it is a simple drug possession or complex sales and manufacturing case, forensic science will likely play a significant role in your case. Having an attorney who understands the complexity of the science behind the evidence, including the potential weaknesses of the scientific evidence in your case, can help ensure that you are properly represented and defended in court. Call the Law Offices of Trent R. Buckallew, PC to discuss your case.

Contact a Phoenix drug crime defense attorney at the Firm who will fight for your rights in court. Schedule a free initial case evaluation today.