Do you need a Los Angeles marijuana distribution lawyer? If you’ve been accused of selling, transporting, or distributing marijuana illegally, you would significantly benefit from seeking legal help. A Los Angeles marijuana distribution attorney can help you protect your rights and your future.
Marijuana laws in California can be quite complex. While personal use of marijuana is sometimes legal, distributing it without the relevant licensing can lead to serious criminal charges. If you’re accused of such an offense, you would want to explore all your options by consulting with a Los Angeles drug crimes lawyer at our firm.
Let’s take a close look at when you might need legal representation, and what you might expect in case you have been charged.
When are Marijuana Distribution Charges Filed in Los Angeles?
Marijuana charges for distributing occur when law enforcement suspects you of selling, transporting, importing, or possessing marijuana with the intention to sell without any proper authorization.
Prosecutors will often consider factors such as the amount of marijuana found, the packaging materials, and any cash they find at the crime scene. Text messages can also be used to establish probable cause.
Possession with intent to sell can lead to marijuana distribution charges, even if you didn’t actually sell any marijuana. When marijuana distribution charges are filed, you may need to reach out to a lawyer.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
What are the Penalties for Marijuana Distribution in California?
The possible penalties vary, and they depend on the amount involved and on previous offenses, if you have any. Potential consequences include jail or prison time, probation, fines, and a criminal record that may, in some cases, be eligible for reduction or expungement.
Aggravating factors may increase penalties, including:
- Distribution near schools
- Involvement of minors
- Prior felony convictions
To get the full picture on California’s controlled substance laws, consider reviewing California’s cannabis laws. A Los Angeles marijuana distribution defense attorney will be able to evaluate your exposure to risk and develop a strategy to minimize the charges against you.
Is Marijuana Legal in Los Angeles?
Yes, using marijuana recreationally is legal in California, but even so, there are limits. It’s important to know that, despite legalization, not all marijuana-related activity is lawful.
You may still face criminal charges for:
- Selling without a state license
- Transporting large amounts across county lines
- Possessing more than the legal limits
- Operating outside regulatory compliance
If you operate outside the rules related to licensing and regulatory requirements for commercial distribution of marijuana, criminal liability may apply. A Los Angeles marijuana distribution defense lawyer can determine whether your conduct violated state law or whether your rights have been infringed.
What Defenses are Available in Marijuana Distribution Cases?
Every case is unique, but several defense strategies may be applicable in yours.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Evidence could be suppressed if law enforcement searched your home or your vehicle without a valid warrant or probable cause. If you believe you have been subject to illegal search and seizure, it may be time to reach out to a Los Angeles marijuana distribution attorney.
Lack of Intent to Sell
Even if you possess a larger amount of marijuana, that does not automatically prove you had the intent to distribute. Prosecutors have to show intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Entrapment
Many clients we work with wonder, can cops pretend to be drug dealers in California? In case law enforcement has pressured you to commit a crime, one you otherwise wouldn’t have committed, an entrapment defense could apply to your situation.
An experienced Los Angeles drug distribution lawyer will analyze police reports, videos, texts, and all available evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They will also thoroughly prepare you on what to expect in California drug crime cases.
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Do You Need a Lawyer for a First-Time Marijuana Distribution Charge?
Yes, you need a lawyer for a first-time marijuana distribution defense. Even if it’s your first charge, it can still carry serious consequences.
A conviction may affect:
- Your employment opportunities
- Your professional licenses
- Your immigration status
- Your future sentencing enhancements
Getting legal help early can significantly improve the outcome of your case. A lawyer can challenge evidence and make sure that negotiations for reduced charges are carried out properly.
How Does the Legal Process Work?
The legal process after you’ve been arrested for marijuana distribution generally includes:
- Arrest and booking
- Arraignment and formal charges
- Discovery and evidence exchange
- Pretrial motions
- Trial or negotiated resolution
During this process, our firm will do a full investigation. We will gather documents and analyze any police procedures, among other things. We are not afraid to go to trial when necessary; we have handled over 100 jury trials, including complex felony cases. We are prepared to defend you in any California court.
What Should You Do After an Arrest?
If you are arrested, you should first and foremost remain calm. Then, you should exercise your right to remain silent.
Never discuss your case with law enforcement without having a lawyer present. You should also not post about the situation on social media, and you should avoid discussing your case with any acquaintances.
You should contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you begin building your defense, the better the outcome of your case can be.
Learn if You Need a Los Angeles Marijuana Distribution Lawyer Today
Although marijuana distribution charges can be serious, they don’t always automatically result in a conviction. We have decades of experience defending clients like you in Los Angeles, and we understand how prosecutors approach cases like yours.
At Simmrin Law Group, we are thorough with case preparation and aggressive with challenging the evidence at every stage. You deserve a defense team that is not afraid to go to trial. When you work with us, you have a friend who knows the law.
If you are wondering whether you need a Los Angeles marijuana distribution lawyer, the safest answer is yes. Act early and contact us now. Let us help you protect your rights and your future.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form