Buena Park Drug Crime Lawyer

Buena Park Drug Crime Attorney

A Buena Park drug crime lawyer can help you navigate drug-related charges in California. These allegations can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and long-term effects on your criminal record. This can impact your future job and housing opportunities, in addition to causing lasting harm to your reputation.

Gibbons & Gibbons works with clients throughout Buena Park, Orange County, and the surrounding area. We’re ready to offer you guidance and advocacy throughout the legal process, working to protect your legal rights and future.

Drug Crime Laws in California

In California, drug crime laws cover a myriad of offenses involving controlled substances. These laws address possession, distribution, and trafficking. The severity of charges depends on factors such as the type and amount of the substance involved. Prior convictions, and if there was intent to sell the drug, can also impact the charges and sentencing.

Some common controlled substances involved in drug crimes include cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Fentanyl also poses a serious problem in the state. California reported the most fentanyl deaths in the U.S. in 2023 at 7,203. Additionally, drugs illegally laced with fentanyl played a role in 69% of all overdose deaths in the country that year. In Buena Park, drug-related crimes occurred at a rate of 1.690 per 1,000 residents.

Types of Drug Crime Cases

Gibbons & Gibbons represents clients across a wide range of drug-related charges. These cases are generally heard at the Orange County Superior Court North Justice Center at 1275 North Berkeley Avenue in Fullerton. Some of the most common drug crime cases include:

• Drug possession. Possession charges involve having a controlled substance without a valid prescription.
• Possession with intent to sell. If the police believe you intended to sell the drugs, you may be charged with intent to distribute. They may come to this conclusion because of certain packaging, quantities, or other evidence.
• Drug trafficking. Transporting drugs can come with serious charges. Crossing state or international borders can increase penalties.
• Drug manufacturing. This involves producing controlled substances, such as methamphetamine.
• Prescription drug crimes. Unlawful possession or distribution of prescription drugs can be heavily prosecuted under California law.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in California

Drug crime penalties can vary based on the charge. They may include jail or prison time, probation, or fines. If charged, you may also be required to enroll in mandatory drug treatment programs.

A criminal record can follow you throughout your life, impacting your ability to pursue certain professional licensure or career opportunities. You may also find yourself barred from renting the house or apartment of your choosing.

Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer

A Buena Park drug crime attorney from Gibbons & Gibbons can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. We begin by reviewing every aspect of the allegations, including all obtained evidence, and whether an illegal search and seizure was performed.

Our team evaluates if the charges support the facts and negotiates for reduced charges or alternative sentencing. We can represent you in court proceedings and help you understand your rights and options.

We have a thorough understanding of state drug crime laws and drug crime trends, and we can work to maintain clear communication throughout the process. Every case is different, which is why individualized care and attention are important for clients facing drug charges in Buena Park.

Possible Defenses Against Drug Crime Charges

Several defenses against your drug crime charges may apply, depending on the unique circumstances of your case. Some of the most common defenses Gibbons & Gibbons employs include:

• Illegal search and seizure. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence they obtained may be thrown out.
• Lack of knowledge. If you were unaware that drugs were present on your person, this can impact the charges.
• Valid prescription. A valid prescription for the drug and the amount of drug found in your possession can lead to a dismissal of charges.
• Entrapment. If the police induced someone to commit a crime that they may not have otherwise committed, this can play a strong role in the outcome of your case.

If we’re unable to get the charges dismissed, we may turn to negotiating for alternate sentencing. This could be a drug diversion program, deferred entry of judgment, or a substance abuse treatment program. Participation in programs such as these can lead to reduced penalties overall.

FAQs

What Is the New Drug Law in California?

California has made several changes to drug laws in recent years. These mainly focused on reducing penalties for certain possession offenses and increasing rehabilitation programs. Courts often prioritize diversion programs. New legislation also addressed fentanyl-related offenses, including enhanced penalties for cases that involved large quantities of the drug or for those who distributed it.

What Happens if You Get Caught With Drugs in California?

If you got caught with drugs in California, the consequences depend on the amount and type of substance. You may be charged with simple possession or a more serious charge, such as intent to sell. After an arrest, you could be booked and required to appear in court for sentencing. You may face jail time, probation, or be required to complete a drug treatment program.

What Is the Three-Felony Rule in California?

The three-strikes law in California often refers to enhanced sentencing for individuals with previous serious convictions. After two offenses, a third offense can come with much stricter consequences. Simple drug possession offenses usually don’t qualify under this law. The application of the law depends on the specifics of your charges and what your criminal history includes.

Is Quetiapine a Controlled Drug?

Quetiapine is a prescription medication used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It’s more commonly known as Seroquel. While it’s not classified as a controlled substance under California law, it’s still illegal to possess the drug without a valid prescription. Unauthorized possession or distribution can also result in serious legal consequences.

Contact Gibbons & Gibbons Today

When you choose to hire a drug crime lawyer for your case, you need a strong advocate who holds your interests and goals in mind. Gibbons & Gibbons is ready to help you navigate complex California drug proceedings. Contact us today to get started.