Drug crimes in Anaheim could involve possessing, selling, and distributing illicit substances. Convictions for drug crimes can lead to hefty fines and even time in jail. Simmrin Law Group has years of experience protecting individuals accused of drug crimes in the court system.
Our criminal defense lawyers in Anaheim know that the laws surrounding drug use in California can be confusing. We’re here to help guide you through the legal system if you face arrest or charges for a drug crime in Orange County. Let us give you the help you need so you can move forward with your life. We can often help our clients get a better outcome in their case than they anticipated.
How an Anaheim Drug Crime Conviction Can Affect Your Life
The possible consequences of an Anaheim drug crime conviction vary widely depending on the offense, the facts of the case, and any deals made with prosecutors. Almost all drug crime sentences include fines and either probation or time behind bars. The best way to avoid many or all these penalties is to work with an attorney and fight the accusations against you.
Your lawyer may be able to help you prevent charges, reduce the severity of the charges, negotiate a deal, or work with prosecutors to get a sentence that best fits your needs. For example, it may be possible to help some offenders avoid jail time, so they can continue attending college or keep their job.
Jail Time
While some drug crimes are relatively minor, others call for significant jail time. Felony drug crime convictions often call for months or even years in state prison.
Fines
The fines required of offenders could significantly affect their family’s financial health and cause them to liquidate assets or sell prized belongings.
Probation
Probation is common for drug crime offenders. This is a period when the convicted party must report to an officer and follow strict rules following their release from jail or prison.
Other Effects
Criminal convictions affect other aspects of your life, as well. This could include social relationships, your ability to keep and work your job, and even getting approved to rent an apartment. Getting a new job or keeping an occupational license necessary for your career may be difficult.
A felony conviction could also affect your rights. For example, most felons cannot own, possess, or use firearms.
For a free legal consultation with a drug crimes lawyer serving Anaheim, call (310) 896-2723
Laws Regarding Marijuana in Anaheim
Until recently, California treated marijuana like any other illicit substance. Recently, California partially decriminalized the usage of marijuana throughout the state, including in the Anaheim area. Recreational use is now legal for adults. This means that individuals over the age of 21 can legally:
- Possess small amounts of marijuana leaf
- Possess small amounts of concentrated cannabis
- Grow up to 6 plants through marijuana cultivation
You can still face criminal charges for possessing or growing additional amounts of marijuana. Furthermore, Anaheim maintained laws against selling marijuana. The court can charge you with intent to sell marijuana for:
- Transporting marijuana to sell it
- Importing marijuana to California
- Giving marijuana away
- Selling marijuana
Intent to sell marijuana can lead to $500 in fines and up to four years in jail.
In addition, you could receive charges for other activities related to marijuana use. For example, you could face driving under the influence (DUI) charges if your marijuana use affects your ability to drive and the police pull you over or you cause a collision.
Anaheim Drug Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Anaheim’s Charges for Drug Possession
There are many additional controlled substances in California. State laws generally treat them more seriously than relatively minor marijuana violations. You can end up in serious legal trouble if law enforcement officers find you in possession of various:
- Depressants
- Hallucinogens
- Opiates
- Steroids
- Stimulants
California state law does not allow individuals to possess illicit substances. This means that you can end up in jail for possessing some painkillers, such as Vicodin if you do not have a prescription. The prosecutors in Anaheim can charge you with crimes in Orange County criminal courts, including:
- Drug Possession
- Possession of Vicodin
- Possession of Meth
Note that you can also end up facing criminal charges for the possession of drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia are tools associated with the use of illicit substances. Cocaine spoons, crack pipes, and some needles may all be considered drug paraphernalia.
You can end up paying $1,000 in fines and spending a year in jail if convicted of drug possession. A drug paraphernalia conviction can result in 6 months of jail time and $1,000 in fines. A criminal defense lawyer in Anaheim can help you fight back against these charges.
Click to contact our Anaheim Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Criminal Charges for Selling Drugs in Anaheim
In general, selling drugs is a more serious accusation than simply possessing them. Selling drugs could put others in danger, and the courts consider this when determining penalties after a conviction. You could face more stringent consequences if you sold drugs to a minor, were near a school, or there were other aggravating circumstances.
Charges related to selling drugs could include:
Possession for Sale
Possession for sale charges generally apply to anyone caught selling drugs. Law enforcement may also accuse you of possession for sale if you have:
- Large amounts of an illicit substance
- Tools used in the preparation of drugs for sale, such as a scale
- Drugs packed into baggies
Possession for sale can be a difficult charge to beat in Anaheim because you do not actually have to sell a drug to receive a conviction. This makes getting legal help on your side even more important. A conviction for possession for sale can lead to fines of $20,000 and up to four years in prison.
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking occurs when someone creates, transports, and distributes drugs, often across state lines. The federal court system and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) often handle drug trafficking cases.
Sentencing in federal courts can be much harsher than in state courts. For example, a first-time offense for drug trafficking in federal court can lead to 40 years in prison and fines of $2 million. A second conviction for drug trafficking can result in $4 million in fines and life in prison.
Dealing with any possession for sale or drug trafficking charge requires immediate action. The longer you wait to get help, the more likely a conviction will be. Make sure you’re ready for your day in court by getting help on your side right away with a drug crimes lawyer.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Protect Your Freedom with an Anaheim Drug Crimes Lawyer
Simmrin Law Group believes that a drug crime accusation should not ruin your life. We’re here to fight for you no matter what drug charge you’re facing. Our Anaheim drug crimes lawyer has the skills and resources to build your case. Start with a FREE consultation about your options with a team member.
Start building your defense now by filling out our online contact form or calling our office.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form