Methamphetamine (commonly known as meth) is a highly addictive and illegal stimulant that Minnesota law enforcement takes very seriously. Whether you’re caught with a small amount for personal use or large quantities that suggest intent to distribute, meth possession charges in Minnesota carry harsh penalties — including mandatory prison sentences in many cases.
If you or a loved one is facing a meth possession charge in Minnesota, understanding how the state classifies these crimes and the consequences you could face is crucial to building an effective legal defense.
Meth Possession Is a Felony in Minnesota
Under Minnesota Statute § 152.021–152.025, possession of methamphetamine is always considered a felony, even in relatively small amounts.
Meth possession charges are divided into five degrees, with first-degree drug possession being the most severe. The degree of the charge depends on:
- The amount of meth involved
- The location of the offense (e.g., near a school or park)
- Whether there was possession with intent to sell
- The defendant’s criminal history
Penalties by Degree of Possession
Fifth-Degree Drug Possession (Small Amounts)
- Possession of less than 0.25 grams of meth (or trace amounts)
- Felony charge
- Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
This is often charged when someone is caught with meth residue in a pipe or baggie.
Note: First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs under Minnesota’s Drug Sentencing Reform Act, which can result in reduced penalties if treatment is successfully completed.
Third-Degree Drug Possession
- Possession of 3 grams or more of meth
- Felony charge
- Penalty: Up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine
This charge often applies when the meth was packaged in a way that suggests more than personal use.
Second-Degree Drug Possession
- Possession of 6 grams or more of meth
- Felony charge
- Penalty: Up to 25 years in prison and a $500,000 fine
Aggravating factors, such as being caught with meth in a school zone, can increase penalties.
First-Degree Drug Possession (Major Quantity)
- Possession of 25 grams or more of meth
- Felony charge
- Penalty: Up to 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine
- A minimum sentence of 65 months (over 5 years) may apply for those with prior felony drug convictions
This is often accompanied by additional charges for drug trafficking or intent to distribute, which can increase jail time and fines significantly.
Enhancements Based on Location and Other Factors
Even smaller quantities of meth can result in more serious charges if:
- You were caught within a school, park, or public housing zone
- Children were present at the time of arrest
- You have prior felony drug convictions
These enhancements often bump the offense up a degree or lead to mandatory minimum sentences.
Collateral Consequences of Meth Conviction
Besides prison time and fines, meth possession convictions can lead to long-term consequences, including:
- A permanent criminal record
- Loss of gun rights
- Ineligibility for federal student loans
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Challenges in custody or visitation cases
To learn more about how meth charges may affect child custody, visit our Minnesota Drug Charge Defense page.
Possible Defenses to Meth Possession Charges
An experienced Minnesota drug crime attorney can explore a variety of defenses based on the facts of your case, including:
- Illegal search and seizure: If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights
- Lack of knowledge: You didn’t know the meth was in your possession
- Entrapment: Law enforcement improperly coerced you
- Lab testing errors: The substance wasn’t properly tested or identified
If the charge is your first offense and involved a small quantity, your attorney may also push for diversion or treatment-based programs instead of jail time.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Meth Possession Case?
Yes. Meth charges are among the most aggressively prosecuted drug crimes in Minnesota. Without strong legal representation, even a small amount can result in years behind bars.
At Martine Law, our criminal defense team can:
- Examine every detail of your case for constitutional violations
- Negotiate for reduced charges or participation in a treatment program
- Represent you at hearings and trial
- Help you avoid a felony record when possible
Final Thoughts
The penalty for meth possession in Minnesota depends on the quantity involved, prior offenses, and circumstances of the arrest. Whether you’re facing a fifth-degree or first-degree charge, the stakes are high, and the consequences can be life-altering.
If you’re under investigation or have already been charged, don’t wait to get legal help. An experienced defense attorney can be your strongest ally in protecting your rights and your future.