Moreno Valley Drug Crime Lawyer

Moreno Valley Drug Crime Attoreny

Drug crimes in California can involve the possession, sale, or transportation of controlled substances, sometimes called “street drugs,” such as heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, or even marijuana. A conviction can lead to serious consequences, up to and including incarceration. An experienced Moreno Valley drug crime lawyer can help.

At Brown & Stedman LLP, our attorneys use their decades of experience in criminal law to help clients who face drug charges. We approach every case with an open mind and use the resources of the whole legal team to handle our clients’ cases with care.

Understanding California Drug Laws

In California, there are several kinds of criminal charges relating to drugs, and the laws have changed in recent years due to Proposition 47, which made the punishment for many drug possession offenses less severe. Proposition 64 also de-criminalized most use of marijuana for adults over the age of 21. Here is an overview of classifications and penalties for possession under California state laws.

What Makes Possession of a Drug Illegal?

According to state law, there are specific elements that make possession of drugs illegal.

• Possession of a controlled substance – This means the person must have actual possession of a substance that is classified as illegal under state law.
• Lack of prescription – The person does not have a valid prescription from a medical professional licensed in California. Only the person whose name is on the prescription can use the substance under the law. However, someone else can pick up the prescription and deliver it to the person with the valid prescription.
• Knowledge of the presence of the controlled substance – The person must know that the controlled substance was in their possession, and they must know that the substance is controlled.
• Possession for Sale – A person can be charged with possession for sale if the police believe they intend to sell the drugs.

Drug Schedules

There are five classifications of drugs in California called “drug schedules.” These schedules range from Schedule I, which the state considers to be a greater risk of harm and addiction, to Schedule V, which is considered the lowest risk of harm and least addictive. The penalties for the different schedules correspond with the risk of harm and addiction.

The Laws About Marijuana

Although recreational use of cannabis is now legal for adults over 21, the law still treats it as a controlled substance, similar to the regulation of alcohol use. Marijuana cannot be used in some public places, such as anywhere the property owners have prohibited its use or within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare, or other place where children are present.

In addition, an individual may only have a limited amount of marijuana or concentrated marijuana in their possession for recreational use. There is still a limit for people who use medical marijuana or their caregivers, although the limit is higher. A small number of plants is allowed as well, but they must be kept in a secure place out of the view of the public.

A Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney Can Benefit You

If you have been charged with drug possession, DUI, expungement, homicide or other drug-related crimes, your first step should be to contact a criminal defense attorney  in Moreno Valley who has extensive experience with drug charges. Drug laws might seem simple, but how they apply to each case can be complicated. Lack of competent representation can result in more severe penalties.

A Moreno Valley drug crime lawyer can help ensure you have an optimal defense and someone in your corner who knows how high the stakes are, looking out for your interests.

FAQ

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in California?

A: The cost of a criminal lawyer in California can vary. The fee depends on many factors, including the charge, the complexity of the case, the experience and reputation of the lawyer, and more. There may also be additional costs, like court fees or fees for expert witnesses. When you work with a lawyer, it is essential to make sure you understand the costs during the initial consultation so you can plan accordingly.

Q: Will a First-Time Drug Offender Get Jail Time in California?

A: Whether first-time drug offenders get jail time or not depends on the circumstances. For many charges, first-time offenders may be eligible for probation. A first-time offender is someone who has no prior criminal history and has been convicted of a crime for the first time. A criminal defense lawyer can help ensure a first-time offender receives leniency where appropriate.

Q: Is Possession of a Drug a Felony in California?

A: Possession of a drug or other drug-related charges in California is sometimes a felony, but in many cases, criminal drug charges may be misdemeanors instead. For example, simple possession of a Schedule I controlled substance or certain kinds of Schedule II or III substances may only result in a misdemeanor charge.

Q: What Is the Difference Between an Attorney and a Lawyer in California?

A: The terms “attorney” and “lawyer” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Lawyer is a term that means anyone who graduated from law school with a Juris Doctor degree. An attorney is a lawyer who has passed the bar exam and is licensed to practice law in California. Not all lawyers are attorneys, but all attorneys are lawyers.

Get Help From a Moreno Valley Drug Crime Attorney Today at Brown & Stedman LLP

Understanding all the specifics of a drug charge and the possible penalties can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first offense. Regardless of the severity of the charges, reaching out to a seasoned drug crime attorney is a wise decision if you are facing a drug-related crime.

The law professionals at Brown & Stedman LLP work as a team to give each client the individual service and attention their case demands. Your experienced criminal defense lawyer will review your case to help you understand the possible criminal charges, examine your legal options, and represent you in court. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation so we can begin to discuss how we can help you with your case.