Drug Crime Attorney in Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County Criminal Defense for Drug-Related Offenses
In California, drug crimes are some of the most widely prosecuted crimes on both the state and federal level. Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners aggressively defends individuals charged with possession, transportation, manufacturing, sales and being under the influence of drugs. Drug charges are serious, are usually prosecuted as felonies and come with a potential state prison commitment.
If you or someone you know has been arrested, charged or is being investigated for a drug crime, do not hesitate to call our offices at (213) 481-6811for a no-charge consultation with a Los Angeles drug crime attorney.
Here's Why We're The Right Firm For You
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75+ Years of Combined Criminal Law Experience
At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our defense attorneys have the ability and experience to handle even the most complex criminal cases. From misdemeanors to serious felonies, no case is too small or large for us to handle.
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Step-by-Step Guidance
We provide step-by-step guidance throughout each phase of the process. The criminal justice system can be a confusing and frightening place, which is why we support our clients every step of the way. We provide the confidence you need to move forward.
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Communication And Personal Attention
We make ourselves available at all times, responding promptly to our clients' calls. Initial in-office consultations are free and include an in-depth discussion of your situation. Throughout all points of your case, your lawyer will keep you informed.
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Comprehensive Defense Strategies
We focus on the facts of the case to create a strategic defense. We work tirelessly for our clients, prepare for trial, and work toward securing the best possible outcome – whether that be a dismissal, reduction in charges, or alternative sentencing.
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Understand your rights when questioned by law enforcement, and avoid making statements that could be used against you.Defend Your Rights
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A plea bargain might not be in your best interest. Let us help you explore all your legal options before making a decision.Learn More
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Receive honest, practical advice during a free initial consultation, and take the right steps to protect yourself. Call now to get started!Read More
Understanding California Drug Laws
A drug crime, also known as a drug offense or drug-related offense, refers to any criminal activity involving the unlawful possession, manufacture, distribution, trafficking, or use of controlled substances or illicit drugs. These crimes are typically governed by federal and state laws that classify certain substances as illegal and establish penalties for their unlawful possession, sale, or trafficking.
California has some of the most complex illegal drug and controlled substance laws in the country. A person can be charged for a variety of activities related to illegal drugs:
- Possession (for personal use or sale)
- Sales (including giving drugs to someone)
- Transportation (or trafficking)
- Cultivating or manufacturing
- Attempt to possess, sell, manufacture or transport drugs
- Being under the influence of drugs
"Controlled substances" include illegal drugs like crack or powder cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and crystal meth. They also include use of prescription drugs like painkillers, (OxyContin, Vicodin, Hydrocodone) or ADD drugs (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta).
How Drug Crimes are Charged
Charges and penalties depend on several factors, including:
- The type and quantity of the drugs involved
- Whether the drugs were for personal use or for sale
- Whether the defendant has a criminal record, especially prior drug convictions
These factors affect whether the drug crime will be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, whether jail or prison is required, the length of incarceration, fine amounts, eligibility for sentencing alternatives (deferred entry of judgment) and enhancements.
Los Angeles Laws on Possession of Drugs for Personal Use
California Health and Safety Code sections 11350 and 11377 make possession of a controlled substance a misdemeanor, unless you have a legal written prescription. Possession of marijuana is usually charged as a misdemeanor. Possession of Marijuana (Health and Safety Code section 11357) is also charged as a felony unless the possession was less than an ounce of marijuana—then the charge is either a misdemeanor or an infraction.
Charges can also be filed for being under the influence of a controlled substance, driving under the influence of a drug (DUI), being present where a controlled substance is being used, and possessing paraphernalia for injecting or smoking controlled substances. If you have been charged with possession of a controlled substance for personal use as a felony, you could be sentenced up to a year in county jail. Most people will be eligible for alternative sentencing (Prop 36 or drug diversion) and avoid jail completely.
Possession of Drugs for Sale
California law makes a distinction between drug possession for personal use and possession for sale. California Health and Safety Code 11351, 11378 and 11351.5 make it a felony to possess drugs for the purpose of selling them. The prosecution does not need to prove that you sold the drugs, but only that you had the intent to sell them. Intent can be proven with circumstantial evidence. Such as the quantity of drugs, the packaging of the drugs, and possession of any scales.
Example: If law enforcement goes to your house and finds drugs in quantities larger than would be normally expected for personal use, this could indicate that there was intent to sell. Other indications of intent to sell drugs may include packaging, scales, cutting agents, large amounts of cash, multiple cell phones, and a fortified location (such as security bars on windows).
In Los Angeles, we have encountered many cases that are mistakenly charged as possession for sale when the drugs were for personal use. Possession for sale carries up to five years in state prison. A conviction for possession of drugs for sale is a "priorable" offense, which means that it will increase the penalties (usually by three years of state prison) for a future drug sales conviction.
Contact us today at (213) 481-6811 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Client Reviews
At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life."
Stephen is a great contact and extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I am glad that I was his client in the past. Top lawyer, top man. God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life.
- HS Singh -
"Don't hesitate to contact them!"
I was referred to this group of Attorneys. I was started with a low cost made arrangements. My case had to do with assault allegations. The case was dismissed they helped me not to loose my daughter to the system.
- Adriana C.
Results Matter
Hire the Right Attorney
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Restitution Defendant charged in Federal case with felony Fraud involving several million dollars with a 40 years prison exposure.
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Dismissed Defendant arrested for Spousal Battery.
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Dismissed Defendant arrested for felony Rape.
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Mistrial Defendant (Los Angeles photographer) charged with assault and battery.