Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer
Aggressive Defense Against Drug Charges in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles has long been recognized as the epicenter of numerous drug cartels and drug trafficking operations, and Los Angeles law enforcement is notoriously hard on drug crime cases. Many Task Forces have been assembled throughout the city to combat drug crimes and conduct both state and federal investigations of suspected offenders.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a drug crime, you must realize that many resources and much effort are being used to find proof that you have committed a drug crime. You must take action immediately to protect your rights, reputation, and future from the consequences of a conviction.
The prosecution and law enforcement will team up against those facing drug crime charges and do everything possible to prosecute the defendant fully. Speak with a highly trained Los Angeles drug crime attorney from our firm to discover your best course of action. We understand the state’s laws on mushrooms and other types of drugs in CA.
Are you facing drug charges in California? Call Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP today at 888-643-2943 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug crime attorney in Los Angeles!
Common Types of Drug Offenses in California
Here at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we have handled more than 200 jury trials on behalf of those accused of crimes throughout Los Angeles, many of which involved drug charges. Our skilled Los Angeles drug crime lawyers can protect your rights and help you build a compelling defense for any of the following charges and more, so call today to schedule a free consultation and read through our helpful drug crimes FAQ.
- Cultivation: This specific crime involves growing, producing, and possessing certain plants or naturally occurring elements used to produce unlawful controlled substances like marijuana plants or cannabis seeds.
- Distribution: Drug distribution refers to situations where an individual or group transfers substances from one place to another. The penalties for this drug crime will depend on the circumstances surrounding the case.
- Drug Sales: The penalties for selling controlled substances in California can be very steep and may include years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. If you are under investigation, immediately take action.
- Drug Manufacturing: You can be charged with a crime for playing a role in cultivating or manufacturing a controlled substance under state or federal law. Drug manufacturing charges can also include other drug charges.
- Medical Marijuana: The laws regarding medical marijuana are continually changing. Many people are accused of marijuana crimes because they do not fully understand their rights and recent changes to these laws.
- Possession: The possession of illegal drugs is a crime that carries a wide range of penalties based on the type and amount of drug and other extenuating circumstances. Instead of accepting defeat, contact our firm.
- Illegally Prescribed Drugs: Obtaining prescription drugs through illegal methods has become one of the most prevalent drug crimes in Los Angeles over the last couple of years.
Drug Manufacturing and Cultivation in California
In California, it is illegal to manufacture illegal drugs or controlled substances, including marijuana. The crime an individual will be charged with regarding manufacturing or cultivation depends on the drug being made.
California Health and Safety Code 11379 makes it illegal to manufacture or take part in manufacturing controlled substances, including cocaine, opium, methamphetamine, or any other controlled substances. A common example would be running a methamphetamine lab. Additionally, it is a crime to be in possession of the chemicals that are used to manufacture certain drugs.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Charges in California?
The penalties for a drug charge will vary depending on several factors, such as the type of drug, amount, one’s previous criminal background, and any other aggravating factors.
Some of the penalties for a drug charge can include:
- Jail or prison
- Community service
- Finds
- Asset forfeiture
- Drug treatment and counseling
Drug crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of your case. If your case involves trafficking across state lines, you could face federal drug charges and heightened penalties.
Defenses for Drug Crime Charges
Whether you are facing drug possession, trafficking, or another related charge, we can explore all the possible defense options for your case.
Some of the common defenses for drug charges include:
- The drugs were seized in an illegal search, and law police officers did not have probable cause to search you.
- The drugs did not belong to you.
- Law enforcement violated your rights during an arrest.
- There was law enforcement misconduct, such as drugs being planted or entrapment.
Our Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP team can help you tailor a defense for your unique situation. We leverage our experience and extensive resources to help you investigate and defend your drug crime accusations. Schedule your free consultation today to get started on your defense.
Start your defense with our Los Angeles drug crime defense lawyer today!