A drug charge can bring a flood of emotions—shock, fear, even shame. It’s normal to feel unsure about what to do next. At Simmrin Law Group, we understand what you’re going through. We have decades of experience and have helped thousands of clients across California.
If you are facing charges, you need someone who knows the law and will fight back. Our Mission Viejo drug crimes lawyer will work to protect your future, your freedom, and your record. Our Mission Viejo criminal defense lawyer is ready to step in and take control of the situation.
We’ve handled over 100 jury trials, so we aren’t afraid of the courtroom. We’ve handled everything from simple possession to federal-level drug trafficking. Call us now to discuss your case during a free consultation.
Our Drug Crimes Attorney in Mission Viejo Will Lead Your Case
At Simmrin Law Group, we don’t just handle your case—we take it personally and see it through until the end. We do all the research and build your defense from the ground up.
When you come to us, we fight for your future by:
- Getting the facts: We collect all reports, bodycam footage, text messages, and other key records.
- Challenging the evidence: If the search or arrest was illegal, we push to get the case thrown out.
- Negotiating for you: We’ll fight for reduced charges, treatment instead of jail, or full dismissal.
- Taking your case to trial: If necessary, we’ll go to court and tell your side of the story.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, we’re ready. Call us today for a free consultation.
For a free legal consultation with a drug crimes lawyer serving Mission Viejo, call (310) 896-2723
What Is a Drug Crime in California?
In California, drug crimes include a wide range of offenses related to illegal drugs or the misuse of prescription medication. These can be charged at the state or federal level.
Common drug charges include:
- Possession: Having illegal drugs like heroin, methamphetamine (meth), cocaine, ecstasy, or even large amounts of marijuana.
- Possession with intent to sell: If the police believe you planned to sell the drugs based on quantity, packaging, or cash.
- Drug manufacturing: Making illegal drugs or growing large amounts of marijuana without a license.
- Drug trafficking: Moving drugs across cities, state lines, or into the country.
- Prescription fraud: Using fake prescriptions or lying to doctors to get medications.
Even being in a car where drugs are found can lead to charges, whether they were yours or not.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in California?
Drug crime penalties depend on what you’re charged with and whether it’s your first offense.
Penalties may include:
- Jail or prison time (from a few days to several years)
- Probation
- Heavy fines
- Drug treatment programs
- A permanent criminal record
Some drug offenses are felonies, while others are misdemeanors. A felony can affect your ability to get a job, housing, or even go back to school.
Under the California Health and Safety Code, drug charges vary by the type and amount of drug, plus any past criminal history. We will review which statutes apply to your situation and explain how they can affect your case.
Mission Viejo Drug Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
How Long Do You Have to Take Action in Your Case?
While there’s no single filing deadline for a criminal defense, time is still critical. If your case ends in a conviction and you want to appeal, California Rules of Court, Rule 8.308(a) gives you just 60 days from the date of judgment to file a notice of appeal.
If law enforcement violated your rights during your arrest or if you face federal charges, those deadlines may be different. Don’t wait and risk losing your chance to fight back.
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Common Defenses Used to Challenge Drug Cases in California
Every case is different, but some strategies we may use to defend you could include:
- Illegal search and seizure: If officers didn’t have a warrant or proper reason to search you, the evidence may be thrown out.
- The drugs weren’t yours: We can show that you didn’t own or know about the drugs.
- Lack of intent: If the drugs were for personal use, not sale or trafficking, charges may be reduced.
- Police mistakes: Errors in how you were arrested, questioned, or tested can lead to dropped charges.
We Build a Defense That Fits Your Situation
At Simmrin Law Group, we don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Every case is different, and every person has a unique story. That’s why we take time to learn what happened and what matters most to you.
Here’s how our Mission Viejo narcotics defense lawyer can build a defense for your case:
- We start by listening: We will talk with you to understand your side of the story. We want to know everything, from how the arrest happened to any details the police may have missed.
- We gather the facts: Our team collects all the important records, such as police reports, videos, bodycam footage, phone messages, and witness statements.
- We look for mistakes: If the police broke the rules during a search or arrest, we can use that to challenge the charges. If the evidence is weak, we point that out in court.
- We build the right strategy: Some people need a deal that avoids jail. Others want to go to trial and fight all the way. We help you decide what’s best and then go after it with everything we’ve got.
- We stay one step ahead: We prepare for what the prosecutor might say and make sure we’re ready with the strongest defense possible.
No matter how serious the charges are, we’re ready to fight for you.
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Steps to Take if You’ve Been Charged With a Criminal Offense
Stay calm and follow these steps:
- Say nothing: Do not explain anything to the police. Ask for a drug trafficking attorney in Mission Viejo immediately.
- Don’t share: Don’t talk about your case with friends, coworkers, or on social media.
- Save proof: If you have texts, videos, or anything else that helps your case, keep it safe.
- Write things down: What happened before, during, and after your arrest? Get it all on paper.
- Get legal help now: The sooner we can begin on your case, the more time we can put into building your defense.
Call to Get Help From Our Mission Viejo Drug Crimes Lawyer
Drug crime charges can leave you feeling lost and stressed. You may be wondering how this happened and what steps you should take now. We urge you not to leave your future to chance. Securing legal representation is one of the smartest decisions you can make right now.
If you’re facing drug charges in Orange County or anywhere in California, a Mission Viejo drug crimes lawyer from Simmrin Law Group is ready to help. We’ll fight to get your charges reduced or dropped altogether. Call us today for a free, private consultation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form