Arrested? Charged With A Crime? CALL NOW 866-713-2159
If you’re facing drug crime charges in Van Nuys, California, it can be a really overwhelming and stressful experience. The penalties for drug crime in California are quite severe, which is why it’s important to have a legal expert on your side. Cyrus is a lawyer who specializes in drug crime defense cases in Van Nuys. He can help you navigate the legal system and provide you with guidance on what steps to take next. With his knowledge and expertise, Cyrus can assist you in dealing with all types of charges related to drug crime and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges for any drug possession offense, and looking for an experienced and aggressive criminal lawyer, contact a drug crime defense attorney from Tabibnia Law firm today at (866) 713-2159
Drug-related crimes are pretty common in Southern California and Los Angeles, and sometimes law enforcement can go too far in their efforts to stop drug trafficking. Unfortunately, this can lead to violations of individual rights. To help you in this kind of situation, Tabibnia Law has a criminal defense lawyer who has more than 18 years of experience in handling various drug crime cases. With their help, you can reduce the negative impact of your arrest and safeguard your future.
Types of Drug Crimes in California
According to California state law, it’s not allowed to possess a controlled substance, whether it’s illegal drugs or prescription medication without a valid prescription. Although there are many different types of prohibited drugs, in California, most drug-related crimes usually involve the following substances:
- Heroin
- 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
- Fentanyl
- PCP
- Crack
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Xanax, Percocet, and other prescription medications
Almost ten years ago, Californian voters passed Proposition 47, which reduced the classification of most drug possession charges from a felony to a misdemeanor. This change meant that drug possession was now considered a less severe offense, but it still carries significant consequences. Even with a misdemeanor drug charge, it can still negatively affect a person’s future opportunities, such as making it harder to find a job, get accepted into schools, or even obtain citizenship. It’s crucial to recognize the possible outcomes of drug possession charges, even when they’re considered misdemeanors.
The most serious drug offenses are possession for sale, manufacturing, and trafficking, which are usually classified as felonies. Even if there isn’t direct evidence showing that someone sold, made, or trafficked drugs, the prosecution can still charge them for these crimes. Often, the government will use circumstantial evidence to try and prove their 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.
It’s crucial to avoid making any statements to the police, as prosecutors can use them as evidence to show that you had the intention to sell drugs. Generally, drug-related crimes are handled in state courts. However, if the authorities believe that you have been trafficking drugs across state borders, you may end up facing federal charges.
Penalties For California Drug Possession Crime
The penalties for drug possession in Van Nuys, 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
If you are arrested and charged with a drug-related crime, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are guilty. According to the law, you are presumed innocent unless the government can provide evidence beyond a reasonable doubt to prove your guilt. There are several defenses available to drug crime charges that may result in the dismissal of your case, an acquittal at trial, or a plea bargain with reduced charges.
One of the main defenses utilized in drug-related cases in California is a motion to suppress physical evidence. This type of motion is filed before the trial and requests 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 reason for filing this motion is due to an unlawful traffic or pedestrian stop. Before a police officer can pull you over or stop you on the street, they must have probable cause or reasonable suspicion. If they can’t justify the stop, any evidence gathered as a result may not be presented to the jury. When a motion to suppress is granted, the prosecution loses the evidence and may have no other option but to drop the case.
Role of A Van Nuys 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 Van Nuys. Cyrus Tabibnia, Drug crime attorney possesses extensive knowledge about the laws and regulations surrounding drug possession charges, such as those at Tabibnia Law Firm. He offers 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 Los Angeles drug possession lawyer, clients can develop a robust defense strategy, negotiate plea bargains, or receive legal representation in court.
Tabibnia Law is a top rated criminal defense law firm located in the Los Angeles near Van Nuys Court at 6454 Van Nuys Blvd #150, Sherman Oaks, CA 91401. Contact us at (866) 713-2159 for a FREE consultation.
