The state of California takes drug crimes very seriously. If you have been arrested on any type of criminal offense related to controlled substances, you may be at risk for harsh criminal penalties. If you are found guilty, you can expect your entire life to change.
Fortunately, you have the right to defend yourself. Clear your name of the allegations against you when you contact an experienced Chino Hills drug crimes lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group for help. Contact our team for a confidential consultation today and learn more about which defenses are most likely to produce a favorable outcome in your case.
Types of Drug Crimes You Can Be Charged with in Chino Hills
Your drug crimes lawyer in Chino Hills, CA will need to review the type of drug a crime you have been charged with to determine which defense is most likely to result in an acquittal or other favorable outcome.
There are many drug crimes you could be facing in the state of California. The severity of the penalties you will face will be based on the type and amount of the drug in question.
California Schedule of Controlled Substances
Drugs in the state of California are classified as controlled substances in schedules. Schedule l controlled substances are considered the most severe. Examples could include heroin and meth amphetamines. Schedule l controlled substances are not accepted for medical use and have a high risk of addiction.
Conversely, schedule V controlled substances are considered the least severe and have medical use. They have a low risk of addiction and might include certain types of prescription medications with low amounts of narcotics. Here is more about the different types of offenses your drug crimes lawyers will need to be prepared to defend against.
Drug Paraphernalia
According to California Health and Safety Code §11364, it is against the law to be in possession of any type of drug paraphernalia. Examples of drug paraphernalia could include pipes, scales, roach clips, marijuana bongs, grinders, and other types of equipment that aid in the consumption, administration, or manufacture of a controlled substance.
Drug Possession
There are two primary types of drug possession charges you could face. First, you could be charged with simple possession of a controlled substance. Here, whether you are found in constructive or active possession of a controlled substance, you could be charged criminally.
If you are charged with drug possession for sale, you could be facing a felony-level drug crime. It is more likely that you will face drug possession for sale charges if you are also accused of being in possession of paraphernalia that suggests the sale of drugs as opposed to the personal use of controlled substances.
Drug Manufacturing
You can face drug manufacturing charges under California Health and Safety Code § 11379.6. This includes the compounding, production, or processing of controlled substances.
You might also face drug manufacturing charges if you are charged with marijuana cultivation. Although marijuana is legal for recreational and medicinal use in the state of California, it is still illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to grow or be in possession of marijuana.
Drug Distribution or Trafficking
Drug trafficking charges can be prosecuted according to California Health and Safety Code § 11352 when you are accused of the administration, furnishing, or sale of a considerable amount of a controlled substance.
You might also face charges for the sale and transportation of drugs. However, these charges are more frequently brought forward after police sting operations.
For a free legal consultation with a drug crimes lawyer serving Chino Hills, call (310) 896-2723
The Consequences of a Drug Crime Conviction in Chino Hills
Your drug crimes attorney in Chino Hills, CA will be responsible for figuring out how to help you dodge the fallout of a conviction. The penalties of a guilty verdict could have a lasting impact on your life for years to come.
The type of drug crime you are charged with, the type of drug involved, and the amount of the drug in question will all impact the severity of the penalties you will face.
For example, if you are found to be in possession of a small amount of cocaine, you might face misdemeanor charges and spend up to one year in jail. However, if you were found in possession of 100g of cocaine, you could be charged with a felony and face up to five years in a California state prison.
A Conviction Can Destroy Your Life
A Chino Hills drug crimes attorney from Simmrin is here to help you reduce the impact a conviction will have on your life. The goal will be to get the drug charges reduced or dismissed altogether, but in some instances, we must be prepared to present a powerful defense strategy.
Although you may not be afraid of spending some time in jail or paying a fine, your entire life will be affected if you are found guilty. This goes beyond criminal penalties. You could face:
- Immigration or citizenship issues
- Trouble with child custody or visitation
- Job loss
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Having your professional license suspended
- Housing restrictions
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)
- Probation requirements
- Community service
- Court-ordered mental health counseling or anger management
- Completion of a court-ordered rehabilitation program
These are only a few of the different ways your life could be affected if you are found guilty of a drug crime in Chino Hills. If you are hoping to get your life back on track, talk to your lawyer about entering a pretrial diversion program or working with the state to obtain a plea agreement.
You might be able to enter a drug treatment program instead of having to go to jail. This is often a better option for those who are first-time, non-violent offenders.
Chino Hills Drug Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Reach Out to a Drug Crimes Lawyer in Chino Hills Today
If you have been charged with any type of drug-related offense, it is essential to dodge a conviction. If you are found guilty, the criminal penalties could have an impact on your life for years to come.
Protect your liberties and your future. Reach out to a reputable Chino Hills drug crimes lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group to discuss your defensive options further. Fill out our confidential contact form or call us to schedule your case evaluation as soon as today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form