Drug offenses constitute a significant portion of criminal cases in California’s legal system. Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors aggressively target these cases, often seeking maximum penalties. If you’re facing drug charges in Los Angeles County, immediate legal representation is critical. Our criminal defense attorneys bring over 30 years of experience defending clients against all types of drug-related charges.
Drug Crime Charges Under California Law
California’s drug laws are complex and constantly evolving. The state classifies controlled substances into schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Drug charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the substance, quantity, and circumstances.
The California Health and Safety Code contains numerous provisions criminalizing various drug-related activities. Prosecutors often pursue multiple charges for a single incident, making these cases particularly challenging to defend without experienced counsel.
Common Types of Drug Offenses in Los Angeles
Simple Possession (HS 11350, 11377)
Possession of a controlled substance without a valid prescription. Penalties vary based on the substance type, quantity, and prior criminal history. While some possession charges have been reduced to misdemeanors under Proposition 47, others remain serious felonies.
Possession for Sale (HS 11351, 11378)
Possessing controlled substances with intent to sell carries significantly harsher penalties than simple possession. Prosecutors look for evidence such as packaging materials, scales, large amounts of cash, or communications indicating sales activity.
Transportation and Trafficking (HS 11352, 11379)
Moving controlled substances from one location to another, especially across county or state lines. These charges often trigger both state and federal prosecution with severe mandatory minimum sentences.
Cultivation or Manufacturing (HS 11358)
Growing marijuana (beyond legal limits) or manufacturing controlled substances like methamphetamine. These charges often involve additional allegations related to chemical precursors or manufacturing equipment.
Penalties and Consequences for Drug Crimes
Drug crime convictions in California carry severe penalties that can permanently alter your life. The specific consequences depend on factors including the substance involved, quantity, criminal history, and whether minors were present or involved.
| Offense Type | Classification | Potential Jail/Prison | Potential Fines |
| Simple Possession | Misdemeanor/Felony | Up to 1 year county jail or 16 months-3 years prison | Up to $20,000 |
| Possession for Sale | Felony | 2-4 years prison | Up to $20,000 |
| Transportation/Trafficking | Felony | 3-9 years prison | Up to $50,000 |
| Manufacturing | Felony | 3-7 years prison | Up to $50,000 |
Beyond incarceration and fines, a drug conviction can result in:
- Professional license suspension or revocation
- Loss of driving privileges
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Difficulty securing employment
- Housing restrictions
- Loss of federal student aid eligibility
- Mandatory drug treatment programs
Don’t Face Drug Charges Alone
The consequences of a drug conviction can follow you for life. Our experienced defense attorneys can help protect your rights and future.
Why You Need an Experienced Drug Crime Lawyer
Drug cases require specialized legal knowledge and courtroom experience. Law enforcement often makes procedural errors during searches, seizures, and arrests that can be leveraged in your defense. Our attorneys thoroughly examine every aspect of your case, including:
- Fourth Amendment violations and illegal searches
- Chain of custody issues with evidence
- Laboratory testing procedures and results
- Confidential informant credibility
- Entrapment and police misconduct
- Viable alternatives to incarceration
With over 30 years of experience defending clients in Los Angeles County courts, our attorneys have developed effective strategies for drug cases. We stay current with rapidly changing drug laws, court procedures, and prosecution tactics to provide the strongest possible defense.
Drug laws and enforcement priorities change constantly. An attorney without specific experience in drug crime defense may miss critical opportunities to challenge evidence or negotiate favorable outcomes.
Drug Cases in Los Angeles County Courts
Drug cases in Los Angeles County present unique challenges. The Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center and other county courthouses handle thousands of drug cases annually, each with its own procedures and judicial tendencies.
Los Angeles prosecutors have specific approaches to drug crimes that vary by courthouse and district. Our attorneys’ extensive experience in these courts provides valuable insight into how your case will likely proceed and which defense strategies will be most effective.
Local knowledge matters in drug cases. We understand the tendencies of specific judges and prosecutors in Los Angeles County, allowing us to tailor your defense strategy accordingly. This local expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Effective Defense Strategies for Drug Crimes
Our attorneys employ proven defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. Depending on the details, we may challenge:
Possession and Control
Prosecutors must prove you knowingly possessed the controlled substance. We examine whether the drugs were actually in your possession or control, or if they belonged to someone else.
Search and Seizure Issues
Law enforcement must follow strict constitutional requirements when conducting searches. We scrutinize whether proper procedures were followed and if warrants were properly obtained and executed.
Laboratory Analysis
The prosecution must prove the substance is actually illegal. We investigate testing procedures and challenge lab results when appropriate.
Intent to Sell
For sales charges, prosecutors must prove intent. We examine whether evidence truly supports allegations of sales activity versus personal use.
We also explore alternative sentencing options such as drug diversion programs, treatment-based approaches, and other alternatives to incarceration that may be available in your case.
Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Drug Crimes Attorney
Drug charges demand immediate attention from experienced legal counsel. The prosecution begins building their case immediately after arrest. You need an attorney who will act quickly to protect your rights and begin developing an effective defense strategy.
Don’t Wait to Get Legal Help
With over 30 years of experience defending clients against drug charges in Los Angeles County, our attorneys have the knowledge, skills, and courtroom experience to fight for your rights and future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
*Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits.
