Drug Crimes

At The Justice Firm, we handle all cases related to illegal drugs and narcotics including drug possession, manufacturing, trafficking, possession for sale, cultivation, and juvenile drug crimes. Whether you have been charged with a drug-related offense or are under investigation, securing the services of a seasoned Los Angeles drug crimes attorney is key to a good outcome. The criminal penalties for a conviction are severe, and will negatively impact many areas of your life including your reputation, career, and even personal/family relationships. Regardless of how serious the situation may seem, it is important to keep in mind that until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, you are innocent.

Our Los Angeles drug crimes law firm is known for securing outstanding results for clients accused of criminal offenses involving marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, prescription drugs and other illicit or illegal substances. We want you to understand that in almost any situation, there are more options than you may be aware of. Whether you have been accused of possessing a small amount of marijuana or manufacturing and distributing meth, the solution is not to accept the first plea deal prosecutors offer. We will thoroughly analyze the details of your case to determine the strongest, most effective possible defense strategy.

Drugs are classified by the Federal government by "schedule." Essentially, this schedule is used to determine how serious an offense is considered, and the potential penalties an individual may face if convicted. If California law deems a drug more dangerous, penalties for offenses related to that drug will be more severe.

Schedule I drugs offer no legitimate medical use, and are considered highly addictive. Considered the most dangerous of all drugs, this schedule includes such drugs as marijuana, heroin, LSD, and mescaline.

Schedule II drugs or substances may have legitimate medical uses, but are highly abused and addictive. These drugs/substances include cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, opium, and methadone.

Schedule III drugs have a moderate risk of abuse and/or addiction, but are typically considered less dangerous and include testosterone, ketamine, anabolic steroids, and certain depressants.

Schedule IV drugs are generally accepted for medical use, and offer only a slight risk of addiction. These include sedatives, tranquilizers, clonazepam, etc.

Schedule V drugs are not considered highly addictive or abused and include such drugs as Tylenol with Codeine and similar prescription medications.

In California, the majority of drug charges are felonies. A conviction will result in prison time and a permanent "black" mark on your record which will negatively impact your life forever.

Penalties for drug crimes are severe around the nation, and it is no different in California. Many offenses will leave the convicted individual facing prison time and substantial fines, among other penalties. Possession of a drug or narcotic brings about serious penalties, however possession with intent to distribute, deliver, or manufacture is punished more harshly.

If convicted for possession of narcotics such as heroin, cocaine, crack, GHB, or unlawfully obtained Vicodin or other prescription drugs, you may face a maximum of three years in California state prison. There are other factors which will affect sentencing including whether you have a prior criminal conviction, were in possession of a firearm, and more.

Manufacturing a controlled substance is a felony under Health and Safety Code 11379.6 HS, and will leave those convicted facing prison time of three, five, or seven years. In addition, you may incur a fine of up to $50,000. Other factors may result in a longer prison term including the presence of children in the location or home where narcotics are manufactured.

Our Los Angeles drug crimes lawyers are highly familiar with the drug laws in the state, and know there are numerous alternatives to jail/prison time for those convicted of a drug offense depending on the circumstances. Our primary focus is to fight the charges and have them dismissed, however when this is not an option we will work to determine whether you may be eligible for Proposition 36 (drug treatment), drug court, Penal Code 1000 PC, or other diversion programs designed for drug offenders who are considered non-violent.

All drug crimes are serious, and can have far-reaching consequences outside of the penalties incurred if convicted. At The Justice Firm, we aggressively defend those accused of the use, possession, distribution, manufacture, or sale of drugs. Contact us immediately for unsurpassed legal guidance at 310-914-2444.