Possession of methamphetamine without a prescription is typically charged under which statute?

• A. PC 11377
• B. HS 11370
• C. HS 11377
• D. HS 11379

Answer: (C)

In California, possession of methamphetamine without a prescription is charged under a Health and Safety Code provision that criminalizes possession of a controlled substance. Methamphetamine is a controlled substance, and the typical charge for possessing it when there is no valid prescription is Health and Safety Code section 11377. This statute specifically covers possession of controlled substances, including meth, without a prescription.

The other options don’t fit as well: one option points to a Penal Code section, which isn’t where possession of illegal drugs is primarily charged; another option covers possession of a narcotic or related acts under a different Health and Safety Code provision, and another targets possession for sale or transportation rather than simple possession. Thus, the best fit for possession of meth without a prescription is Health and Safety Code 11377.