California’s drug laws apply to everything from simple possession to trafficking and smuggling. The category of controlled substances covers illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin, along with illegally obtained prescription medications. Penalties vary depending on the type and quantity of the drug, any prior history, and whether the user is accused of selling the drug. Some offenders are eligible for diversion or drug treatment programs in lieu of jail time.
Mission Viejo Drug Crime Lawyer
Drug Crime Attorney In Mission Viejo, CA
Being charged with a drug crime is a serious offense. These types of charges have a severe impact on your criminal record and your freedoms that extend beyond just prison time. If you are charged with a drug crime, a Mission Viejo drug crime lawyer can help you fight for your future. An attorney understands the law and knows how to build an appropriate defense in your favor so you don’t have to do it alone.
About The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman
At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, nationally recognized criminal defense attorney Jacqueline Goodman has been taking on the toughest cases for decades.
Licensed in state, federal, and appellate courts, including the United States Supreme Court, Jacqueline is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist. Named one of the top attorneys in the country, Jacqueline is respected and awarded for her commitment to clients when the outcome matters most.
FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES?
Attorney Goodman handles a wide variety of criminal cases and accused crimes. Don’t see your charges below? Contact us for a consultation.
Understanding Mission Viejo Drug Crime Laws
California has some of the most stringent drug crime laws in the country. From relatively minor charges, like simple possession, to serious felonies involving drug trafficking or manufacturing, our state laws cover a wide range of illegal activities. The legislation covers not just controlled drugs like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine, but also illegal prescription drug activities.
Potential charges can vary from simple possession to possession with intent to sell, drug manufacturing, drug trafficking, and drug distribution.
Potential penalties for drug crimes in California can range from diversion programs and treatment under Proposition 36 for those found to be using a drug for personal consumption to prison sentences and other long-term consequences for more serious offenses.
For example, a person may face an additional sentence for a drug offense committed with a firearm, trafficking or manufacturing, or in possession of a large amount of drugs, or when the accused has a previous criminal record.
California’s drug laws are always changing, especially those dealing with marijuana. Although recreational cannabis is legal for adults, there are still strict laws in place that could lead to criminal charges.
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Types of Drug Crimes
Drug charges in California can be tricky, as state laws cover everything from simple possession to more serious trafficking. Charges may involve street drugs like cocaine, heroin, meth, or even prescription medications if they are obtained or shared illegally without a valid prescription. Depending on the circumstances, a person may face one or more of the following charges:
- Possession. Possession indicates holding an unlawful substance without the intention to distribute it.
- Possession with intent to sell. Possession with intent to sell charges apply when someone carries substantial amounts or possesses items that indicate distribution purposes.
- Drug manufacturing. The manufacturing or cultivation offense includes unauthorized drug production and plant growth.
- Trafficking. When someone transports or sells drugs, they face distribution or trafficking charges, which come with harsher legal consequences.
In California, the felony drug arrest rate was 66.1 in 2023. There were 19,654 felony drug arrests that year in the state. Of these, 10,656 were for dangerous drugs.
Every case is different, and much depends on the type of drug involved, the quantity, and the prior criminal record of the charged individual. A Mission Viejo drug crime attorney can examine your case facts and strongly argue to secure alternative solutions that protect your future.
Drug Crime Penalties
Drug crime penalties in California vary based on the substance involved and the amount of drugs in question. In Mission Viejo and Orange County more generally, this can mean the difference between probation or a drug treatment program and years in a California state prison for serious drug crimes like trafficking or manufacturing.
The impact of a drug crime can also follow a person outside of the criminal justice system. A conviction could mean a suspended driver’s license, trouble finding a job or an apartment, and restrictions on professional licenses. Students may lose scholarships and even federal financial aid.
Due to these lifelong consequences, when you hire a drug crime lawyer, they can help protect your rights and your future. Many Mission Viejo drug crimes are handled through the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach, which is the courthouse serving South Orange County.
DRUG CRIME LAWS FAQ'S
Mission Viejo, CA
Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer Today
If you have been charged with a drug crime, do not hesitate to hire a drug crime lawyer. The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman can help you. Contact us today to begin fighting for your future.