Know Your Rights Under ARS 13-3407(A)(1)
In Arizona, drug crimes are prosecuted aggressively, especially when methamphetamine is involved. One of the most serious charges related to drug possession is outlined under ARS 13-3407(A)(1)—a statute that criminalizes the knowing possession or use of a dangerous drug. If you’ve been charged under this law in Scottsdale or the surrounding Phoenix metro area, here’s what you need to know.
What Is ARS 13-3407(A)(1)?
ARS 13-3407(A)(1) prohibits knowingly possessing or using a dangerous drug. Methamphetamine is classified as a dangerous drug under Arizona law. This means that even a small amount in your possession—regardless of intent to sell—can lead to felony charges.
The law states:
“A person shall not knowingly… possess or use a dangerous drug.”
Unlike marijuana, meth remains strictly illegal in Arizona with no allowances for medical use. Possession—even without intent to distribute—is a serious criminal offense.
Penalties for Meth Possession in Arizona
Under Arizona drug laws, possession or use of methamphetamine under ARS 13-3407(A)(1) is typically charged as a Class 4 felony, which can lead to:
- 1.5 to 3 years in prison (for first-time offenders)
- Up to $150,000 in fines
- Mandatory drug treatment
- Probation and community service
- Loss of civil rights (including gun ownership and voting)
If you are caught with a threshold amount (9 grams or more), it may trigger mandatory prison time and eliminate diversion options.
How the State Builds a Drug Case
To convict someone under this law, the state must prove:
- You knowingly possessed the drug, and
- The substance was indeed methamphetamine, classified as a dangerous drug.
But arrests don’t always mean guilt. Questions about ownership, search legality, and lab results can form the foundation of a strong defense.
Defense Strategies for ARS 13-3407(A)(1)
At Rideout Law Group, our Scottsdale criminal defense attorneys bring decades of combined experience to each drug case. Founding attorney Brad Rideout has prosecuted and defended felony-level drug charges across Arizona.
We examine every case for:
- Unlawful searches or police misconduct
- Chain of custody errors
- Entrapment or mistaken identity
- Eligibility for drug diversion programs or deferred sentencing
One additional strategy is to plead the case down to a misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia charge. While still serious, a paraphernalia conviction carries significantly lighter penalties than a felony meth possession charge, often avoiding prison and preserving future opportunities.
Why Hire a Scottsdale-Based Drug Attorney?
Having a legal team familiar with Maricopa County courts makes a difference. Our Scottsdale office is located at:
📍 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 Call: (480) 584-3328
📨 Contact Us Online
We serve clients across Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix, Chandler, and the entire East Valley.
Take Action: Clear Your Name, Protect Your Future
Being charged under ARS 13-3407(A)(1) can derail your life, but it doesn’t have to. Whether you’re a first-time offender or have prior charges, Rideout Law Group is ready to fight for you.
📍 Scottsdale Office: (480) 584-3328
📍 Lake Havasu Office: (928) 854-8181
📲 Free Consultation | Confidential & Local Representation