If you have been charged with a narcotics-related crime, the first step you should take is to obtain a skilled Anaheim drug crime lawyer as soon as possible. Drug-related offenses are a high priority for local law enforcement and prosecutors, so it is essential to have aggressive and knowledgeable legal representation on your side who could help you obtain a favorable outcome.
Our seasoned legal team at the Law Office of Scott D. Henry has over 40 years of combined experience helping clients fight drug charges. We have a proven track record of success because we take a proactive and aggressive approach to our defense strategies. One of our highly-regarded criminal defense attorneys could thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case and determine the most effective strategy to provide you with a solid defense.
Common Drug Crimes
Drug crimes are one of the most commonly charged offenses in this area. Common charges include:
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of a controlled substance for sale
- Drug manufacturing
- Transportation of a controlled substance
- Selling or furnishing a controlled substance
Drug Possession in Anaheim
Drug possession charges are prosecuted under California Health and Safety Code 11350 HS. After the passing of Proposition 47, possession of a controlled substance for personal use, or “simple possession,” is charged as a misdemeanor. Most first-time offenders typically receive diversion, also referred to as deferred entry of judgment, and can avoid a criminal conviction. A skilled attorney could assess your drug case and determine if you may be eligible for a diversion program. Our leading drug defense team at the Law Office of Scott D. Henry knows how these crimes are investigated and prosecuted locally. This knowledge helps us find errors in the investigation process and identify what strategies to pursue in our negotiations with the district attorney.
Intent to Sell Charges
Often investigators and District Attorneys want to charge you with the most serious crime possible. If you are charged with intent to sell, the prosecutor will try to show a connection between drug possession and one or more of the following:
- A large quantity of controlled substances
- Items used to pack or measure narcotics (scales, plastic bags, etc.)
- A large amount of cash
- Firearms on the property
Common Controlled Substances Involved in Drug Charges
Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code 11350 HS, it is illegal to possess a controlled substance unless you have a valid prescription. Some controlled substances are legally manufactured by pharmaceutical companies, and some that are illegally manufactured. Common controlled substances involved in drug crimes include:
- Opiates such as codeine or morphine
- Opioids such as oxycontin, hydrocodone, and fentanyl
- Benzodiazepines such as Xanax
- Cocaine
- Meth
- LSD
- Heroin
- Vicodin
What are the Penalties for Drug Crime Convictions?
In an effort to cut down on drugs in the streets, these charges are highly prosecuted and strictly punished. Penalties vary considerably and largely depend on the type of charge and the amount of drugs involved. Conviction penalties may include:
- Substantial fines
- Time in jail or prison
- Probation or parole
- Mandatory counseling
- Local drug offender registration
- Revoked driver’s license
Depending on the severity of your drug charges, an Anaheim lawyer could help you minimize the potential penalties you may be facing.
Narcotics-Related Search Warrants in Anaheim
In drug investigations, law enforcement often files false warrant affidavits and executes search warrants without proper cause. Scott D. Henry and his team know how to expose any unlawful police conduct skillfully. Our diligent team of local attorneys could thoroughly examine the facts and circumstances surrounding your drug case to find any errors that were made. We could bring this evidence to the prosecutor and request that the charges against you be significantly reduced or dismissed.
Speak with a Top Anaheim Drug Crime Attorney Today
Experienced Anaheim drug lawyer, Scott D. Henry, and his top-notch legal team could aggressively advocate on your behalf to get you the best chance at a favorable outcome. We understand how frightening it is to face charges for a controlled substance. Fortunately, we could guide you through the process while fighting tirelessly to ensure your rights are being protected. Drug crimes are a priority for prosecutors, so it is essential to have skilled and diligent legal representation on your side. Please contact our team immediately if you are facing these charges. During your free consultation, we could go over your case’s specifics, advise you on your rights and legal options, and determine the best steps to move forward.