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A lawyer in Sherman Oaks who specializes in drug possession cases is a legal expert who can provide defense for individuals facing drug possession charges in Sherman Oaks, California. Being charged with drug possession can be a daunting and stressful situation. In Sherman Oaks, California, drug possession is considered a serious offense and can lead to severe penalties. Cyrus is a legal specialist who focuses on representing clients who are facing charges related to drug possession. Let’s see what are the responsibilities of a Sherman Oaks drug possession lawyer and how they can assist you in dealing with charges related to drug possession.
Drug crimes are a common type of criminal offense in Los Angeles and Southern California, and law enforcement officials often cross legal boundaries in their efforts to prevent drug trafficking. This can result in violations of individual rights. Tabibnia Law has a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles with over 10 years of experience in handling various drug crime cases. With our attorney’s assistance, you can minimize the consequences of your arrest and protect your future.
Types of Drug Crimes Cases We Handle in California
In accordance with California law, the possession of a controlled substance is prohibited, whether it be illicit drugs or prescription medication without a valid prescription. DRUG CRIME CASES WE HANDLE:
- Drug Manufacturing
- Possession of Paraphernalia
- Possession of Cocaine
- Possession of Ecstasy
- Possession of Heroin
- Possession of Marijuana
- Possession of Methamphetamine
- Possession of Vicodin (Hydrocodone)
- Marijuana Cultivation
- Marijuana Sale
- Manufacturing a Controlled Substance
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs
- Driving While Addicted to Drugs
- Selling, Furnishing or Transporting Fake Drugs
- Forging a Prescription
- Sale, Transportation for Sale, etc., of Controlled Substance
- Drug Possession for Sale of a Controlled Substance
- Drug Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Felony Drug Charges
- Misdemeanor Drug Charges
Nearly a decade ago, California voters approved Proposition 47, which reclassified most drug possession charges from felonies to misdemeanors. While this change lowered the severity of punishment for drug possession, it still has significant consequences. Even misdemeanor drug offenses can negatively impact a person’s future prospects, such as making it more difficult to secure employment, admission to educational institutions, or obtain citizenship. Therefore, it is important to understand the potential consequences of drug possession charges, even when they are classified as misdemeanors.
Possession for sale, manufacturing, and trafficking are the most severe drug-related offenses, typically classified as felonies. Despite the lack of direct evidence proving the sale, manufacture or trafficking of drugs, the prosecution can still press charges for these crimes. In many cases, the government relies on circumstantial evidence to build a case against the defendant.
For example, If you get caught with drugs in your possession in any of the following situations, the likelihood of being charged with drug distribution increases significantly:
- You possessed a large amount of a single drug
- You possessed multiple types of different drugs
- You were arrested with a lot of cash
- You were arrested with paraphernalia often associated with the sale of narcotics, such as scales or empty baggies
If you make any statements to the police, prosecutors may use them to prove your intent to sell drugs. Drug-related offenses are typically prosecuted in state courts, but if the authorities suspect that you have trafficked drugs across state lines, you could face federal charges.
Penalties For California Drug Possession Crime
The penalties for drug possession in Sherman Oaks, California, are generally determined by the California Health and Safety Code, as well as other relevant state laws. Here is a general overview of the penalties for drug possession in California:
Misdemeanor Drug Possession:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
Felony Drug Possession:
- Imprisonment in state prison (length varies based on the specific drug and quantity involved)
- Fines (the amount varies)
It’s important to note that California has implemented certain reforms and alternative sentencing options for some drug offenses. These options aim to prioritize treatment and rehabilitation over incarceration. Depending on the circumstances, individuals charged with drug possession may be eligible for diversion programs, drug courts, or probation that includes mandatory drug treatment programs.
Additionally, the penalties for drug possession can be more severe if the possession is linked to intent to sell or distribute drugs, involves certain controlled substances, or if there are aggravating factors such as prior convictions or possession near schools or parks.
Defenses to Southern California Drug Crimes
Being arrested and charged with a drug offense does not automatically mean you are guilty. You are considered innocent until the government can provide evidence beyond a reasonable doubt to prove otherwise. There are several defenses available to drug crime charges that may lead to the dismissal of the case against you, an acquittal at trial, or a plea bargain with reduced charges.
One of the most prevalent defenses used in drug-related cases in Los Angeles is a motion to suppress physical evidence. This type of motion is submitted before trial and asks the court to exclude certain evidence from the proceedings because it was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights. In drug cases, the most common basis for filing a motion to suppress is unlawful traffic or pedestrian stops. Before a police officer can pull you over or stop you on the street, they must have probable cause or reasonable suspicion. If they cannot justify the stop, any evidence collected as a result may not be presented to the jury. When a motion to suppress is granted, the prosecution is left with no evidence, and they may have no choice but to drop the case.
Role of a Sherman Oaks Drug Possession Lawyer
Regardless of whether you’re charged with minor or major drug possession, it’s important to have the support of a skilled drug possession lawyer in Sherman Oaks. These attorneys possess extensive knowledge about the laws and regulations surrounding drug possession charges, such as those at Tabibnia Law Firm. They offer expert legal advice and representation to assist clients in navigating the legal system and reducing the impact of a drug possession charge. With the assistance of Sherman Oaks drug possession lawyers, clients can develop a robust defense strategy, negotiate plea bargains, or receive legal representation in court.
