Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer
Getting arrested for drug charges in Los Angeles can have serious effects on your future. These cases can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record that follows you for years. Many drug crimes involve controlled substances like meth, cocaine, heroin, or even prescription drugs. Whether the case is for simple drug possession or larger charges like drug trafficking, having the right legal help matters.
My Rights Law Group helps you fight back. Our law firm provides strong criminal defense for people facing drug charges in Los Angeles County and across Southern California. We know how law enforcement builds these cases and how the courts work. Whether it is a first-time arrest or a serious federal case, our legal team has the experience and legal strategies to protect you.
We work to defend your legal rights and guide you through the legal process. You do not have to face these charges alone.
Types of Drug Charges We Handle
Our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer handles a wide range of drug offenses involving controlled substances. These include cases where someone is simply caught with a small amount of drugs, all the way up to major charges like drug trafficking or manufacturing.
My Rights Law Group defends clients facing both misdemeanor and felony drug charges under California law.
Drug Possession (HSC § 11350)
Drug possession under Health and Safety Code § 11350 makes it illegal to have a controlled substance without a valid prescription. This includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, and even prescription drugs like Vicodin or Xanax. A conviction can lead to jail time, a criminal record, and other penalties.
Our defense attorneys focus on your legal rights, possible drug diversion programs, and whether law enforcement had probable cause to make the arrest.
Possession for Sale (HSC § 11351)
Under Health and Safety Code § 11351, having drugs with the intent to sell them is a much more serious crime than simple possession. This charge does not require actual sales, just enough proof that the person planned to sell the controlled substances.
Police often use items like scales, baggies, or text messages as evidence. We push back with solid legal defense strategies to challenge assumptions and protect your freedom.
Drug Transportation or Sales (HSC § 11352)
Health and Safety Code § 11352 makes it illegal to transport, sell, or give away controlled substances like heroin, cocaine, or other narcotics. Even moving drugs from one city to another can lead to serious drug trafficking charges. Law enforcement often uses undercover officers, phone records, and wiretaps to build these cases.
Our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer knows how to challenge weak evidence and protect your legal rights during every step of the criminal justice process.
Methamphetamine Charges (HSC § 11377 & § 11378)
Meth cases are often charged under Health and Safety Code § 11377 and Health and Safety Code § 11378, which cover possession and possession with intent to sell. These charges can be harsh, especially if law enforcement claims you were manufacturing drugs or had large amounts.
A strong legal defense might include proving you had no intent to sell or showing that the search warrant used was unlawful. We defend these drug charges with careful attention to forensic evidence and your constitutional rights.
Marijuana-Related Offenses
While Proposition 64 legalized some recreational marijuana use, many marijuana crimes still exist in California’s legal system. You can still be arrested for illegal sales, transporting large amounts, or growing more than allowed. Even legal users can face driver’s license suspension for driving under the influence of marijuana under Vehicle Code 23152.
Our Los Angeles drug lawyer will explain what state laws apply and build a defense strategy based on the facts of your case.
Prescription Drug Crimes
Prescription drugs like OxyContin, Xanax, and Adderall are legal only when used properly. It is illegal to possess these drugs without a prescription or to sell or share them with others. These prescription drug offenses are charged under various sections of the California Health and Safety Code, and they often lead to jail time, fines, or probation.
We fight these drug crimes by examining how the police gathered evidence and whether there was probable cause for your arrest.
Drug Crime Penalties in California
The punishment for drug crimes in California depends on the type of charge, the drug involved, and your past record. Some offenses are treated as misdemeanors, while others are charged as felonies with much harsher outcomes. If you are found guilty, you may face jail time, large fines, and a lasting criminal record.
Our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer helps clients understand how California criminal law applies to their situation and what penalties they could face under current state and federal court rules.
Misdemeanor Possession
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Completion of a drug education program (PC § 1000)
Felony Drug Charges
- 2 to 9 years in state prison
- Formal probation or jail time depending on circumstances
- May include sentencing enhancements if firearms or minors are involved
Alternative Sentencing and Diversion Options
Not everyone charged with a drug offense in California has to face jail time. In many cases, courts allow eligible people to take part in diversion programs that focus on treatment rather than punishment. These options are especially helpful for those with no violent background or who are struggling with addiction.
Our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer can help you explore these programs and see if you qualify for one under the criminal justice system.
Pretrial Diversion (PC § 1000)
Pretrial diversion under Penal Code § 1000 gives people charged with certain nonviolent drug crimes the chance to attend drug treatment instead of going through a full criminal trial. If the program is completed, the court dismisses the criminal charges, and the criminal case does not go on your record.
Proposition 36
Proposition 36 allows people convicted of drug possession or controlled substance use to get probation and drug treatment instead of going to jail. This law applies to nonviolent offenders and aims to reduce repeat offenses by helping people recover instead of punishing them harshly.
Drug Court in Los Angeles
Drug court is a special court program that offers structure and supervision instead of traditional jail sentences. Participants meet regularly with a judge, attend counseling, and take drug tests. This program is run by the Los Angeles County court system and can help people with serious addiction problems avoid long-term jail time.
Federal Drug Charges in Los Angeles
Federal drug crimes are more serious than state offenses. If you’re charged in Los Angeles with a federal offense, you may face long prison sentences, large fines, and harsh sentencing guidelines. These cases often involve agencies like the DEA, and the stakes are much higher than typical state charges.
Our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer understands how the federal system works and can provide a strong legal defense to protect your rights throughout the entire criminal justice process.
Trafficking and Conspiracy (21 U.S.C. § 841 & § 846)
Under 21 U.S.C. § 841 and 21 U.S.C. § 846, the federal government can charge you for drug trafficking, manufacturing, or conspiring to distribute controlled substances. These charges are very serious and can lead to decades in prison, especially if large amounts of Schedule I or II drugs are involved or if the case involves crossing state or national borders.
DEA Investigations and Wiretaps
Federal drug cases often involve long investigations by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). These may include wiretaps, undercover surveillance, and search warrants. If you are the target of a DEA investigation, it is critical to hire a skilled criminal defense attorney who knows how to challenge the evidence and protect your legal rights from the very start.
FAQs
1. Can I lose my driver’s license after a drug conviction in California?
Yes, certain narcotic crimes may lead to a driver’s license suspension, especially if the case involves driving under the influence or refusal to comply with testing. Even without driving involved, some offenses can trigger DMV penalties depending on your record.
2. What if I was charged with possession with intent to distribute?
Possession with intent to distribute is a felony and is treated more harshly than simple drug possession. Criminal defense lawyers can challenge the amount of drugs, packaging, and other factors the prosecution uses to prove intent.
3. How does Proposition 47 affect drug charges?
Proposition 47 allows certain low-level drug offenses to be reduced from felonies to misdemeanors, including some cases involving Schedule I and II drugs. It may help you avoid asset forfeiture, jail time, or get your record cleared.
4. Can drug paraphernalia charges be dismissed?
Yes, depending on the situation, drug paraphernalia charges may be challenged, especially if the object was not used or if police conducted an illegal search. A strong criminal defense can also seek diversion or dismissal in court.
5. What if my case involves a DEA Schedule I drug and other serious charges like sex offenses?
If your case includes DEA Schedule I substances and alleged sex offenses, the situation is very serious. A deputy district attorney may push for harsh sentencing, and restraining orders or asset forfeiture could apply. You need experienced criminal defense lawyers to protect you in state or federal court.
Contact Our Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer for a Free Consultation Today
If you are facing drug charges in Los Angeles County, it is important to act quickly. Drug crimes can impact your job, your record, and even your freedom. Whether your case involves simple possession, trafficking, or something more serious like prescription drug fraud or manufacturing, having the right legal representation can make a big difference. My Rights Law Group fights to protect your rights and future.
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand how to handle complex criminal cases, including those involving domestic violence, sex crimes, white-collar crimes, or violent crimes tied to drug offenses. We can challenge how evidence was collected, including whether Miranda Rights were properly read or a search warrant was valid. We also handle juvenile cases and seek fair outcomes like plea deals or reduced charges when possible.
If your case goes to a jury trial, we are prepared with strong legal strategies. Contact our Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer for a free consultation. Let us stand by your side and protect your future.
Ready to speak with a Los Angeles drug crime lawyer? Contact us now at (213) 577-1988 or contact us online.
