Getting charged with a marijuana offense in San Diego can come as a shock, especially in a state where some marijuana use is legal. Even so, an arrest can still lead to court dates, fines, or time in custody, depending on the situation.
A San Diego drug crime lawyer from Simmrin Law Group helps people who feel caught off guard and unsure of what comes next. Our attorneys bring over 20 years of experience handling criminal cases throughout California and have taken more than 100 cases to jury trial, including serious felony matters.
Our trial experience shapes how we evaluate evidence and prepare every case. As your marijuana lawyers serving San Diego, we explain what the charge involves, where the law draws its limits, and how your case may move through the system. Call us for a free consultation to discuss your situation and the steps ahead.
Our Marijuana Attorneys Serving San Diego Will Protect Your Rights at Every Stage
A marijuana case often starts taking shape before a person even sees a courtroom. Our firm gets involved as soon as possible, when details still matter, and early choices can affect the outcome.
Our San Diego criminal defense lawyer reviews how the stop, search, or arrest happened and whether officers followed the law. We also gather evidence, such as body camera footage and lab results, among other items. We also look closely at how prosecutors classify the charge and whether the facts support it.
Every case follows a different path. When early resolution is possible, we explore it. When the case moves toward hearings or trial, we prepare carefully and respond with evidence. Throughout the process, we work to protect your record and keep the case focused on the facts.
For a free legal consultation with a marijuana lawyer serving San Diego, call (310) 896-2723
Is Marijuana Legal in California?
California law allows adults age 21 and over to possess and use limited amounts of marijuana. This does not mean marijuana is always legal. The law draws clear lines around how much a person may have, where it may be used, and whether money or intent is involved.
Many common situations can lead to charges involving marijuana use. These include possession by a minor, possession of large amounts, selling marijuana without a license, or having marijuana on school grounds. Federal law still treats marijuana as illegal, which matters in some cases.
Our San Diego marijuana defense lawyer will explain how California’s marijuana laws and federal rules apply to your case so there are no surprises later.
San Diego Marijuana Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
We Handle Common Marijuana Charges Under California Law
California’s marijuana charges cover a wide range of conduct, from having a small amount for personal use to allegations involving sales or transport.
The charge a person can face depends on how much marijuana was involved and what officers believe the person intended to do with it. Where the substance was found can also be a factor.
In many cases, the assumptions that law enforcement officers make play a large role in how a case is labeled. The most common marijuana charges filed under California law carry different risks and legal consequences, which is why details matter from the start.
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Marijuana Possession Charges
Simple possession usually involves small amounts meant for personal use. State law allows adults in California to legally possess up to 28.5 grams of marijuana flower and up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis.
Charges can still happen when police believe the amount exceeds legal limits, when the person is under 21, or when marijuana is found in a restricted place. Possession charges may be filed as infractions or misdemeanors, depending on the facts.
Even a low-level charge can leave a mark on a criminal record. We work to limit how the charge affects your record.
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Possession With Intent to Sell
Intent-to-sell charges go beyond personal use. Police look at packaging, cash, text messages, and statements made during questioning. They also rely on officers’ opinions about what looks like sales activity.
Charges may be filed even when no sale occurred. Police often rely on inferences drawn from the scene rather than direct proof. Our San Diego marijuana lawyer looks at whether the evidence actually supports the charge.
Marijuana Sales and Distribution
Selling or transporting marijuana without proper licensing can lead to serious penalties. Distribution charges under state law may involve jail time, fines, and probation.
Cases may involve undercover operations, informants, or recorded communications. These cases move quickly and often include multiple defendants.
Our marijuana criminal defense lawyers handling cases in San Diego gather police reports, video, phone records, and lab results to understand what really happened and who played what role.
What Happens After a Marijuana Arrest?
After an arrest, a person may receive a citation or be booked into jail. Court dates follow, starting with an arraignment where charges are read. Conditions of release may include travel limits or testing requirements.
The case then moves through evidence review, motions, and negotiations. Some cases resolve early while others require hearings or a trial. We guide clients through each stage, which has deadlines and choices that can shape the result.
For a review of how Simmrin Law Group can lead your case, call for a free consultation.
Defenses That May Apply in a San Diego Cannabis Case
Each case comes down to the facts. The focus often starts with why the police made the stop, what followed, and how evidence was collected. In some situations, the charge does not line up with what occurred.
Search procedures, police questioning, and lab testing can affect how a case proceeds. Statements given during police contact may also come into play. Our drug lawyers rely on reports and records when reviewing a case and prepare with the possibility of trial in mind.
Filing Deadlines for Criminal Offenses Under California Law
Criminal cases follow strict timelines. Most misdemeanor marijuana charges must be filed within one year under California Penal Code § 802. Felony charges usually carry a three-year filing period under California Penal Code § 801.
Deadlines also apply to motions and evidence challenges. Acting within these time frames protects the ability to defend the case fully. We will advise you on what the deadlines are in your situation.
Tell Our San Diego Defense Lawyers About the Marijuana Charges You’re Facing
It can be upsetting to learn about being charged with a marijuana offense, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Simmrin Law Group represents people who have never been arrested before as well as clients with prior cases.
Many people reach out while trying to understand how a single charge could affect their record, their work, or their family. Each situation calls for close review and careful planning, which is what we do.
Our marijuana lawyers serving San Diego will work on your behalf to protect your rights and seek the best outcome. Learn more about your legal options and next steps during a free consultation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form