CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Drug Crimes

Los Angeles Drug Crime Laws: Understanding the Risks Involved

Drug crimes are taken very seriously in Los Angeles as evidenced by the strict penalties imposed on individuals found guilty of such crimes. This can range from possession to transportation, possession for sale and various other offenses. The penalties and repercussions are deemed severe hence the need for one to understand the laws and regulations regarding drug crimes in Los Angeles.

Firstly, it is worth noting that possession of drugs such as cocaine, crack, heroin, PCP, LSD, methamphetamine and ecstasy among others is illegal. Similarly, it is against the law in Los Angeles to sell and possess prescription drugs such as Oxycontin and Vicodin.

Most drug offenses in Los Angeles fall under various sections of the Health and Safety Code including 11364, which deals with possession of drug paraphernalia, 11352(a), which deals with possession or possession for sale of a controlled substance, 11352(b), which deals with transportation or transportation for sale of a controlled substance, and 11353, which deals with selling a controlled substance to minors.

Based on recent research, California has the highest number of drug prosecutions in the United States. Several factors determine the charges for drug crimes in Los Angeles. These include the type of drug in question, the quantity of the drug, whether it was for sale or personal use, the offender’s criminal record, among others.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

The consequences of being convicted for drug crimes in Los Angeles are severe. The penalties one can face include imprisonment in state prison or county jail, large legal fines, parole or probation after being released from prison, restitution for costs incurred during the investigation, mandatory drug counseling, registration as a drug offender, and a revoked driver’s license.

It is worth noting that past drug crimes can be used to enhance a future sentence if an individual is convicted again. Los Angeles prosecutors may also charge someone with possession for sale even if the drugs were only for personal use. Therefore, it is crucial to hire a skilled Los Angeles drug crime lawyer to handle your case.

An experienced attorney can have possession charges dismissed due to unfair police conduct or plea down the case, which could provide eligibility for a drug counseling program rather than a life sentence. Good legal guidance is necessary when arrested or charged with drug crimes. Our firm has experienced drug crime attorneys that provide legal representation for individuals facing drug charges or drug-related offenses.

Some of the offenses we handle include drug trafficking, importation, or smuggling, unauthorized possession, sale, or use of prescription drugs such as Xanax, Oxycontin, or Vicodin, heroin possession, and manufacturing, cultivation of marijuana, DUI involving drugs, student or juvenile drug offenses, property crimes to support drug habits, conspiracy charges, and money laundering.

It is also crucial to understand that a simple drug charge can result in civil drug penalties such as asset forfeiture of cash, real estate, or motor vehicles linked to drug crimes. In some cases, if the offender is a child, the parents’ home could also be seized, depending on the severity of the offense.

If you are faced with drug charges, hiring a competent lawyer is vital in analyzing the facts of your case and protecting you from harsh criminal consequences. The only way to stand a chance in trial is by having a strong defense. Paying hefty fines or serving life in prison as a result of a preventable conviction is not an option.

Our firm consists of some of the Los Angeles drug lawyers with the skill and experience to build a solid defense and achieve a successful outcome. Our highly skilled lawyers do everything within their power to help you avoid a conviction or minimize the penalty. Our goal is to assist you in winning your case.

Table 1: Examples of Drugs Prohibited by Los Angeles Drug Laws

| Drug Name |
|————–|
| Cocaine |
| Crack |
| Heroin |
| PCP |
| LSD |
| Methamphetamine (Speed) |
| Ecstasy |
| Oxycontin |
| Vicodin |

Table 2: Penalties for Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

| Penalty | Explanation |
|————————|—————————————————————|
| Imprisonment | Could serve time in state prison or county jail |
| Legal fines | Large legal fines may be imposed |
| Parole or probation | Mandatory parole or probation may be imposed |
| Restitution | Compensation for the cost incurred during investigation. |
| Drug Counseling | Mandatory drug counseling |
| Registration | Registration as a drug offender |
| Revoked driver’s license| Offenders driver’s license will be revoked. |

Misconceptions of Los Angeles Drug Crimes

There are several misconceptions regarding drug crimes in Los Angeles. Below are a few:

Misconception 1: The laws prohibiting drug crimes are only applicable to “hard drugs” like heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine.

This is false. The law prohibiting drug crimes in Los Angeles applies to all drugs, both “hard drugs” and “soft drugs” such as marijuana.

Misconception 2: If a drug was not found on your person, you cannot be convicted of drug crime.

This is untrue. If there is evidence linking you to a drug crime, you can be convicted.

Misconception 3: Drug convictions are dependent on the amount of drugs found on you.

This is not accurate. Drug convictions depend on various factors such as the type of drug, quantity of drugs, intent, and criminal record.

Misconception 4: First-time offenders will receive probation with no criminal charges.

This is not true. Although first-time offenders may receive lesser charges than repeat offenders, one may still face criminal charges, fines, and the possibility of jail time.

Mitigating Circumstances in Drug Crime Cases

There are several circumstances that can lead to a reduced sentence or dismissal altogether of drug crime charges. Below are a few such circumstances:

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when a government official induces or pressures a person to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. This can be used as a defense in drug crime cases.

Unlawful Search and Seizures

If illegal drugs are found during an unlawful search and seizure, these drugs cannot be used as evidence in court, and the charges could be dismissed.

Drug Possession in a Medical Emergency

If an individual is in possession of drugs while trying to save someone’s life in a medical emergency and calls the emergency services or 911, they may be exempt from drug charges.

No Consent to Search

If the police illegally search your property without your consent, then any evidence discovered relating to drug possession cannot be used in court.

It is imperative to consult a Los Angeles drug crime lawyer regarding mitigating circumstances that may be applicable to your case. They can then advise of the legal action to take for the possible outcome.