Glendale Drug Crime Lawyers
Serving Burbank, Pasadena & North Hollywood, CA
Drug crime charges are among the most common of all criminal matters prosecuted in Southern California courts. People from all walks of life can find themselves facing charges for possession of street drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, synthetic forms of marijuana, and more or unauthorized prescription medicines like Adderall, OxyContin, and other sedatives and stimulants.
Unfortunately, your life can be seriously upended if you are found with any amount of a “controlled substance” listed in California Health & Safety Code § 11350. It is generally illegal to knowingly have contact with any controlled substance without a prescription. If you are charged with coming in contact with such substances, the prosecution is not required to prove that the substance could have a stimulant effect.
If you or someone you love has been arrested for drug possession or any other drug-related offense, your first action should be to secure the advice and guidance of a proven criminal defense attorney.
At Weiss and Stepanian LLP, our legal team offers highly experienced and aggressive representation customized to your circumstances. We have helped thousands of individuals in our decades of practice with meticulous investigation, case preparation, and legal challenges in court. Our mission is to fiercely protect your rights while we fight for optimum results in the criminal justice system.
Reserve a free consultation with a Glendale drug crime attorney by contacting us online or at (818) 619-3337.
Why Choose Weiss and Stepanian LLP?
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Personalized Strategies and ResultsWe craft customized legal strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.
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Free ConsultationsWe offer a free initial consultation, providing individuals with the opportunity to discuss their legal concerns and explore their options with no obligation.
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Aggressive AdvocacyOur approach is characterized by proactive and aggressive representation, advocating for our client's best interests within and beyond the courtroom.
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Client Centered ApproachWe are always on our clients' side, dedicated to protecting their rights and interests with unwavering commitment.
Drug Crimes in California
California drug crimes encompass a wide range of offenses related to controlled substances, including their possession, sale, distribution, cultivation or manufacture, and trafficking. The laws are intricate, and the specifics of an offense greatly influence how a case is charged. Drug-related offenses can also include possession of drug paraphernalia and conspiracy.
California law classifies controlled substances into five Schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical value, and safety:
- Schedule I: High potential for abuse, no accepted medical use (e.g., heroin, LSD)
- Schedule II: High potential for abuse, some accepted medical use with restrictions (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)
- Schedule III: Lower potential for abuse, accepted medical use (e.g., anabolic steroids, ketamine)
- Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse, widely accepted medical use (e.g., Xanax, Valium)
- Schedule V: Lowest potential for abuse, accepted medical use (e.g., cough preparations containing less than 200 milligrams of codeine)
What Determines How Drug Crimes Are Charged?
Charges for drug crimes hinge on several variables, including but not limited to the following:
- The specific controlled substance involved
- The quantity of the drug
- The purpose of possession (personal use vs. intent to sell)
- The accused’s criminal history
- The presence of minors or firearms during the offense
The penalties for drug crimes in California range from fines and drug counseling to long-term imprisonment, heavily reliant on the severity and nature of the offense. Possession for personal use is often considered a misdemeanor, potentially leading to probation, community service, or participation in a drug program.
Possession with the intent to sell is typically charged as a felony with penalties including lengthy prison time and hefty fines. Manufacturing or trafficking is generally a felony punishable by prison terms and significant fines.
Get the Help You Need Today
Prompt action can make the difference between a successful verdict and an unsatisfactory result when arrested or charged with a drug offense.
Call us immediately, consultations are free and we are here to help. Our team is committed to providing aggressive, insightful, and empathetic assistance seeking positive results.
Discuss your case with a Glendale drug crimes attorney by contacting us at (818) 619-3337.
