Drug Crimes
Criminal Defense
Banning Drug Crime Attorneys
Aggressive Defense Against Drug Charges in Blythe, San Bernardino, Palm Springs, San Diego, El Centro, Indio, Riverside, Rancho Cucamonga and the Surrounding Areas
You will face harsh penalties in California if you have been arrested for drug possession or stand accused of selling or manufacturing drugs. Depending on the offense, you could face mandatory rehabilitation or even years in prison. When the stakes are high, the only option is to involve a Banning drug crime lawyer who can assert your rights. Was the search conducted in a lawful manner? Were you read your Miranda rights? Were there reliable witnesses? There are many ways to weaken the prosecution’s case; a seasoned criminal defense attorney will know how to take the right approach.
From our San Diego, Indio, San Bernardino, and Banning offices, Southwest Legal represents clients facing drug charges in these communities and throughout Southern California, including Fontana, Palm Springs, and Blythe. Please take this opportunity to put our decades of experience to work for you.
Drug Crime Cases We Handle
What are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in California?
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Possession of a Controlled Substance:
Simple possession of a controlled substance, such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, is a misdemeanor offense in California. The penalties can include up to one year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. However, possession of certain drugs, such as PCP, can result in felony charges. -
Drug Distribution or Sales:
Drug distribution or sales is a felony offense in California. The penalties can include up to five years in prison and fines of up to $20,000. However, if the amount of drugs involved is large or the defendant has a prior drug conviction, the penalties can be much more severe. -
Drug Trafficking:
Drug trafficking is a severe offense in California, and the penalties can include up to nine years in prison and fines of up to $20,000. The penalty can increase depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
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Drug Manufacturing:
Drug manufacturing is a felony offense in California, and the penalties can include up to seven years in prison and fines of up to $50,000. However, if the drug being manufactured is methamphetamine, the penalty can be much more severe. -
Prescription Drug Crimes:
Prescription drug crimes, such as fraudulently obtaining or selling prescription drugs illegally, can result in misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the circumstances. The penalties can include fines and jail time. -
Drug Crimes Involving Minors:
Any drug crime involving a minor is considered a serious offense in California. These crimes can result in enhanced penalties, including longer prison sentences and increased fines. For example, if a defendant sells drugs to a minor, they can face up to nine years in prison and fines of up to $20,000. -
Meth Lab Operations:
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and dangerous drug that can be produced in makeshift labs. Producing methamphetamine is illegal in California, and those involved in meth lab operations can face felony charges and substantial fines. For example, a person convicted of operating a meth lab can face up to seven years in prison and fines of up to $50,000. -
Drug Paraphernalia:
Possession of drug paraphernalia, such as pipes, bongs, or syringes, is a misdemeanor offense in California. The penalties can include up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000. However, if the defendant has prior drug-related convictions, the penalty can increase to one year in jail.
It's important to note that these penalties are just general guidelines,
Understanding the Consequences of Drug Crimes in California
Being charged with a drug crime in California can have serious consequences. It is important to understand the potential penalties you may face and the long-term impact it can have on your life. At Southwest Legal, our experienced drug crime attorneys are dedicated to providing aggressive defense strategies to protect your rights and minimize the consequences you may face.
Penalties for drug crimes in California can vary depending on factors such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, prior convictions, and the intent of the individual. Some common penalties include:
If you are facing drug crime charges don’t hesitate to contact our experienced drug crime lawyers at Southwest Legal. We are here to provide you with the strong legal representation you need to protect your future.
Start your defense with our Banning drug crime defense lawyer!
Defenses For Drug Charges in California
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Lack of Possession:
One of the most common defenses for drug crimes is to argue that the defendant did not possess the drugs in question. This can be difficult to prove, but the charges may be dropped if the prosecution cannot demonstrate that the defendant had control over the drugs. -
Unlawful Search and Seizure:
The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. If the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights were violated during the search and seizure of drugs, any evidence obtained may be suppressed, and the charges may be dismissed. -
Entrapment:
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers induce or coerce a person into committing a crime they would not have committed otherwise. The charges may be dropped if the defendant can demonstrate that they were entrapped.
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Medical Marijuana:
California is one of several states that have legalized marijuana for medical use. If the defendant can demonstrate that they were using marijuana for medical purposes, they may be able to avoid drug charges. -
Insufficient Evidence:
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the drug crime. The charges may be dropped if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence.
Contact Our Banning Drug Crime Lawyers Today
Drug crimes are a serious matter, and if you have been charged with a drug-related offense in California, it’s important to understand the potential consequences and to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable Banning drug crime attorney. There are several defenses that can be used to fight drug crime charges, but the best strategy will depend on the specific facts of your case. With the help of Southwest Legal, you can avoid the harsh penalties associated with drug crimes and protect your rights and future. If you or someone you know is facing drug charges, don’t hesitate to contact our team for assistance.
Contact Southwest Legal today to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our drug crime attorneys in Banning!
