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Drug Crime Defense Lawyer
In addition to California and federal law, the Controlled Substances Act governs drug crimes. In the state of California, many drugs are considered illegal, with Marijuana, Heroin, Methamphetamines, Cocaine, and unauthorized prescription drugs like Xanex being the most prevalent.
Most Common Crimes Being:
- Simple Possession
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Drug Manufacturing
- Drug Trafficking
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Drug Cultivation
What are the Defenses Against Drug Crimes?
There are some common ways to defend against drug crimes. The first is a medical necessity (assuming the drug is Marijuana or you have a prescription). If you have opiates and have a prescription from a doctor or can otherwise prove medical necessity, the rules for possession change.
Likewise, if the evidence for drug crimes was obtained via an illegal search, that evidence can be thrown out. There have been cases of the police using entrapment techniques or even planting drugs at crime scenes to get a conviction. Also, lab procedures used for detecting drug residues can be flawed or done improperly.
Know How a Drug Possession Attorney handles your Crucial drug case.
Curious about how a drug possession attorney handles your crucial drug case? Our experienced team of drug crime lawyers specializes in providing strategic legal representation for individuals facing drug-related charges. With a deep understanding of drug laws and extensive courtroom experience, our drug attorneys will guide you through every step of the legal process. Whether you’re facing drug possession charges or other drug-related offenses, trust our dedicated drug possession attorneys to fight tirelessly for your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Gain insight and peace of mind by consulting with our expert legal team today.
Drug Laws And Penalties in California
Under California drug sentencing guidelines, most instances of simple drug possession for personal use are charged as misdemeanors rather than felonies. These crimes are punishable by imprisonment in county jail for up to a year and a fine of up to $1,000.
You can also be put on parole, which means you will be subject to random drug testing, and the police can search you at any time without a warrant and cause.
In some circumstances, possession of drugs can be prosecuted as a felony, such as if you have a prior conviction for a serious felony. A felony conviction is punishable by up to three years in county jail.
In some cases, you may qualify for a drug treatment program or drug court, allowing you to serve your sentence in a drug treatment program instead of jail.
An experienced drug crimes defense attorney can help you get the best outcome if you face drug possession charges in California.
Marijuana
Under 28.5 grams of Marijuana (Infraction) – HS 11357(b)
If you are under 18 and it is your first offense, you will be required to complete 4 hours of drug education or counseling and serve up to 10 hours of community service for up to 2 months.
For subsequent offenses, you will have to complete six hours of drug education or counseling and up to 20 hours of community service over up to 3 months.
If you are between 18 and 21, you may have to pay a fine of up to $100.
Over 28.5 grams of Marijuana (Misdemeanor) – HS 11357(c)
If you are under 18 and it is your first offense, you will have to attend 8 hours of drug education or counseling and up to 40 hours of community service over up to 3 months. Subsequent offenses will require 10 hours of drug education and up to 60 hours of community service over up to 4 months.
If you are over 18, you can be punished with up to 6 months in county jail and a fine of up to $500.
Concentrated Cannabis (Misdemeanor or Felony) – HS 11357(a)
If you possess more than 8 grams of concentrated cannabis products and are over 18, this is treated the same as possessing more than 28.5 grams of marijuana.
If you are under the age of 18 and you possess more than 4 grams of concentrated cannabis, this is also treated the same as possessing more than 28.5 grams of cannabis.
Cocaine | HS 11350
While cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance, cocaine base (crack) is a Schedule I controlled substance. Possession of cocaine for personal use is punishable by up to a year in jail. If you are a first-time offender, you can usually get a drug diversion and avoid spending time in jail.
Therefore, possession of a cocaine base is more likely to result in a felony conviction than possession of cocaine.
Felony Possession of Cocaine with a Loaded Firearm – HS 11370.1
If you possess any amount of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or phencyclidine while also armed with a loaded, working firearm, you can be punished by 2 to 4 years in state prison.
Heroin | HS 11350
Possession of heroin for personal use is punishable by up to a year in jail. If you are a first-time offender, you can usually get a drug diversion and avoid spending time in jail.
“Meth” | HS 11377
Possession of methamphetamine for personal use is punishable by up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $70. If you are a first-time offender, you can usually get a drug diversion and avoid spending time in jail.
Prescription Drugs Without Prescription | BPC 4064
Possession of prescription drugs without a prescription for personal use is punishable by up to a year in jail. If you are a first-time offender, you can usually get a drug diversion and avoid spending time in jail.
However, according to Business and Professions Code 4064, pharmacists may legally refill a prescription without the relevant medical provider’s authorization. Suppose they reasonably believe that failing to refill the prescription would interrupt ongoing care or adversely affect your health. This may help your defense, although it does not exempt you from punishment for possessing the drug without a prescription.
Transportation or Selling of Controlled Substances
Under California Health & Safety Code 11352, it is a crime to transport, import, furnish, administer, or give away a drug or offer to do any of the above if the underlying intent is to sell a controlled substance.
This law punishes people involved in moving drugs from place to place by foot or vehicle, importing drugs from another state or country, selling drugs, supplying drugs that will be sold, administering drugs to someone, or giving away samples of a drug. Even small-scale actions, such as giving a friend a few of your prescription pills to sell, may lead to felony prosecution.
Penalties for Selling or Transporting Drugs
Selling or transporting drugs in California can be punished by 3 to 9 years. Your sentencing will be more severe if you travel to a county not next to where you started your journey.
Defending a Drug Sales or Transportation Charge
To convict you of selling or transporting drugs, a prosecutor must prove not just that you transported or sold the drug but that you knew it was a controlled substance, you intended to sell it, and there was enough of it to be used as a drug.
As a result, common defenses include:
- You did not know the substance was an illegal drug.
- You did not know the substance was in your possession.
- You were not carrying enough of the substance to be used as a drug.
- You had a valid prescription for the drug.
- Evidence was obtained against you in an illegal search and seizure.
Your Rights Matter: Don't Face Drug Crime Case Alone, Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer Today!
It is essential to have a dedicated drug crime lawyer when confronted with a drug crime case. A drug crime lawyer explains federal criminal law and the potential penalties. We have an experienced team of drug attorneys who understand the complexity of drug laws and are committed to protecting your rights. Our experienced drug attorneys are renowned for their skills. Our drug crime lawyers offer the strategic legal representation you need to navigate your case effectively. Rely on us to fight for your rights and ensure you receive fair treatment under the law. We have a team of drug attorneys who are experts and professionals towards legal cases with any drug related charges. Our drug crime lawyer explains the facts and details of your case to develop a federal criminal strategy. Approach our drug attorneys to understand the court’s legal proceedings.
Drug Defense Lawyer Near Me
If you or a member of your family has been accused of a crime or if you learn that you are under investigation, it is in your best interest to contact KAREEM A. RAMADAN, a criminal defense attorney at Kareem Law APC, immediately. We can begin building your case as soon as you are informed of an accusation against you, taking the time to listen to your needs and uncover the circumstances surrounding your case.
If you are currently involved in a legal matter, our attorneys can represent you in court. Since 2013, we’ve assisted countless clients with complex litigation. We can help defend you if you did not intend to commit a crime, were the victim of an unjust accusation, or were involved in an illegal law enforcement sting operation.
Arrested for Drug crime? Contact Drug crime defense lawyer
Call (888) 671-5933 now.
Know How a Drug Possession Attorney handles your Crucial drug case.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with a drug crime, you must act quickly to protect your rights by retaining an experienced drug defense attorney. You must immediately begin to plan your defense and discuss your legal options with a qualified attorney. Drug crime defense lawyer KAREEM A. RAMADAN has successfully protected a number of individuals accused of drug crimes from unwarranted prosecution and severe criminal punishments.
We have an experienced team of drug possession attorney, specialized in offering legal representation for individual facing drug charges. Our experienced drug possession attorneys will guide you through all the steps of the legal process. Rely on our drug possession attorneys to fight for your rights, achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Gain insight and peace of mind by consulting with our expert legal team today.
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Questions To Ask When Choosing Your Criminal Defense Attorney
What does a drug possession lawyer do?
A drug possession lawyer defends clients accused of possessing illegal substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or prescription drugs without authorization. They examine how the evidence was collected and challenge any unlawful search or seizure.
What are the penalties for a drug possession charge?
Penalties vary by state and depend on the type and amount of the drug, as well as prior offenses. They can include fines, probation, license suspension, or even jail time. A drug possession attorney works to reduce or dismiss these penalties whenever possible.
Can a drug possession charge be dropped or reduced?
Yes. A skilled drug charges lawyer can negotiate plea deals, push for diversion programs, or challenge evidence to have charges dropped or reduced to a lesser offense.
What’s the difference between possession and intent to distribute?
Possession means having drugs for personal use, while intent to distribute implies selling or trafficking. The latter carries much harsher penalties. A drug crime lawyer can help clarify which charge applies and build a strong defense.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time drug offense?
Absolutely. Even first-time drug charges can impact employment, education, and immigration status. A drug offense attorney can often get first-time cases diverted or dismissed through treatment or education programs.
What defenses can be used in a drug possession case?
Common defenses include: Illegal search and seizure Lack of knowledge or ownership Invalid warrant or procedural error Entrapment Your drug lawyer will evaluate which strategy fits your case best.
Can police search my car or home without a warrant?
Not always. There are strict legal limits on when searches are allowed. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, a drug attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence — often resulting in dropped charges.
Will a drug conviction stay on my record?
Yes, but in some cases, a drug offense lawyer can help you get your record expunged or sealed after a certain time period or program completion.
What should I do after being charged with drug possession?
Stay calm, avoid discussing your case with anyone but your attorney, and contact a drug possession lawyer near you immediately. Early legal action can make a big difference in your case outcome.
How do I find the best drug attorney near me?
Look for a drug crimes attorney with a strong record in criminal defense, positive client reviews, and experience handling local courts and prosecutors. The best drug lawyers know how to negotiate for reduced penalties and protect your rights.
Do first time drug offenders go to jail in California?
If you are caught with illegal drugs, you are more likely to be charged with illegal drug possession with the intent to sell, which is a felony. If police seize large quantities of drugs, you may face drug trafficking charges, which result in felony charges and severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
What happens if you get caught with drugs in California?
At Kareem Law APC, we understand that the only way to truly understand your case is to take the time to listen to your story. Many criminal attorneys lack the passion for patiently listening to your story and missing important details that can differentiate between a criminal conviction and earning a dismissal! As a client-focused San Bernardino, Riverside, and Los Angeles County criminal defense firm, we believe in investigating every detail of your story to determine what led to your arrest and how to create a personalized defense for your case. Whether it’s a common case of PC 647(f) public intoxication or a complex case such as PC 245(a)(1) assault with a deadly weapon, we approach each case with the same attitude of paying attention to the legal, factual and mitigating issues of your story. At Kareem Law APC, we have years of specialized training from Judges, Police Captains, and former prosecutors. We can find errors and false statements in the evidence that have led to countless dismissals and acquittals at trial.
What amount of drugs is considered a felony in California?
Any person possessing or offering for sale 14.25 grams or more of a substance containing heroin can also be convicted of a drug felony violation.
Make Sure You Hire a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney
When you are facing criminal charges, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney you can trust. Kareem has been practicing criminal law for more than a decade and is one of the most trusted and highly rated attorneys. Whether you need help with a domestic violence case, felony and misdemeanor cases, theft crimes, or any other criminal charges, call Kareem Law APC for excellent legal representation. Kareem is a compassionate criminal lawyer who will protect your rights, guide you through every step of the process, provide you with the legal counsel you deserve, and fight hard to obtain optimal results. Call today at (888) 671-5933 or use our online contact form to schedule contact with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Riverside.
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I was faced with a case that never in my life I’d imagine to be dealing with that could’ve had detrimental effects on my life and career ending. Kareem was the best defense I had to get my life back together. From start to finish Kareem was very attentive, informative and determined to help get this fixed and he did! The case was never filed! Thank you!
I was arrested and was facing 2 felonies in October and spent some time sitting in county jail. After calling tens of lawyers to help I immediately knew Kareem would provide the help I was looking for. He walked me through the entire court process and was very reassuring that I had nothing to worry about. It is a great feeling when you have a confident lawyer behind you. Kareem managed to get my case dismissed and I have no charges on my record now. I don’t think I would have this result if it weren’t for his help. I would recommend him to anyone. He knows what he’s doing and he is the man for the job.
Before hiring Kareem Law I made the mistake of listening to some ads for personal injury attorneys on the radio. I did not know what to expect since this was my first time needing to hire an attorney. The first office never returned my calls and never connected me with an attorney. I thought attorneys wanted to help their clients not treat them like dirt. I found Kareem's office after a family member told me of an attorney who did excellent work on his personal injury case.
From the first call with Kareem he created a strong relationship with me where I felt appreciated and heard. Mr. Ramadan was always available when I needed answers and did a fabulous job settling my case.
From the first call with Kareem he created a strong relationship with me where I felt appreciated and heard. Mr. Ramadan was always available when I needed answers and did a fabulous job settling my case.
I was very fortunate to have had Kareem as my attorney. From our very first conversation, I could tell he was very knowledgeable and experienced. His empathy and care for my situation, were encouraging and made me feel safe. Kareem was very personable, reachable, and communicated clearly. Kareem put a lot of effort to get the case dismissed and achieve a complete resolution without the additional stress of a trial. I am beyond grateful to him!
Never in my life, did I think I would need a criminal defense attorney. A close family member committed a federal crime and suddenly I was searching for a criminal defense attorney. I submitted an inquiry to all lawyers in the Upland area and I am so thankful that Attorney Kareem was quick to reply on a Sunday afternoon!
The next day, he was already doing a jail visit with my family member. The following day, we were meeting and discussing the case in his office. Right from the beginning,
Kareem expressed his care and compassion for us and my incarcerated family member. He also made us feel very comfortable telling us a personal story of his that made him appreciate nurses, which my mom and I are! This life journey of his, made us feel that he knows the value of life and our family member would be in excellent hands.
Kareem was always available to answer all our questions. If you call him or text him, he will always respond right away or within a few hours. This was an extremely difficult time in our lives and Kareem was always there to ease our minds. When trying to find an attorney who is going to save your life or a close family members, you have to fully trust your lawyer and Kareem is that man. He strongly advocated for my family member and got him released from jail with a mental health diversion. This was the goal from the beginning and we could not be more thankful to Attorney Kareem for the outcome.
The next day, he was already doing a jail visit with my family member. The following day, we were meeting and discussing the case in his office. Right from the beginning,
Kareem expressed his care and compassion for us and my incarcerated family member. He also made us feel very comfortable telling us a personal story of his that made him appreciate nurses, which my mom and I are! This life journey of his, made us feel that he knows the value of life and our family member would be in excellent hands.
Kareem was always available to answer all our questions. If you call him or text him, he will always respond right away or within a few hours. This was an extremely difficult time in our lives and Kareem was always there to ease our minds. When trying to find an attorney who is going to save your life or a close family members, you have to fully trust your lawyer and Kareem is that man. He strongly advocated for my family member and got him released from jail with a mental health diversion. This was the goal from the beginning and we could not be more thankful to Attorney Kareem for the outcome.
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Quick response even on the weekend. Atty Kareem seems like a great attorney however he was too busy for our small case. Thank you for your time. 
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4/15/2023 - Where do I even start with Kareem... I got into some trouble recently and needed some help as I do not know anything about laws and what my next steps... read more Cory R.
2/15/2023 - I would highly recommend Mr. Ramadan to anyone in a similar situation. He was very helpful throughout the entire process, and the final outcome was very favorable. Erika D.
7/03/2023 - I was faced with a case that never in my life I'd imagine to be dealing with that could've had detrimental effects on my life and career ending. Kareem was... read more WaKas M.
9/14/2022 - I had reached out to Kareem Law APC after finding out I was being wrongfully accused of an incident, and he immediately called me back late at night. I have... read more
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1/31/2023
KAREEM LAW APC – CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
Attorney Kareem uses his training and experience as a former prosecutor to defend clients throughout Los Angeles and San Bernardino. If you are arrested or charged with a criminal offense, you need someone with experience to defend and protect your rights. Call Kareem.
