If you have been charged with a crime involving controlled substances, you can put your trust in our team of knowledgeable Moreno Valley drug lawyers. With over 40 years of drug offense experience, our criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry could provide you with an aggressive legal counsel and a superior ability to negotiate effectively to have your charges reduced or dismissed. If charges are unavoidable, we could advocate to receive alternative sentencing, helping you to avoid jail time.
Types of Drug Offenses
California leads the United States in its number of drug convictions. The penalties vary greatly but typically include jail time and hefty fines. Some common drug offenses in this area include:
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession for sale of a controlled substance
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Transportation for sale of a controlled substance
- The sale or furnishing a controlled substance to a minor
- Drug trafficking
Depending on the type of drug offense you are facing, our attorneys in Moreno Valley could determine what the next best steps should be in your case.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
If you are caught possessing a controlled substance without a valid subscription in your name, you can be charged with possession of a controlled substance or “simple possession” under California Health and Safety Code 11350 HS. Possession of a controlled substance is charged as a misdemeanor and carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. With the advocacy of a seasoned attorney, you may be able to receive alternative sentencing such as a drug diversion program if you are a first-time offender.
What is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking is defined in California Health and Safety Code 11379 HS as unlawfully selling, distributing, transporting, furnishing, or administering a controlled substance. Drug trafficking can result in serious charges and severe penalties. If the trafficking took place over state lines, the offense is charged and prosecuted at the federal level, garnering harsher penalties. Felony drug trafficking convictions carry penalties that include a sentence of three to nine years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.
Defense Strategies in Controlled Substance Cases
The severe impact of a drug conviction can last a lifetime. However, you should not lose hope. Our skilled Moreno Valley lawyers could devise an effective defense strategy to help you receive a favorable outcome in your drug case. Some valid defense arguments include:
- Having a valid prescription for the drug.
- The substance in question was not a controlled substance.
- Not being aware of being in possession of the controlled substance.
- The drug belonged to another person.
- The controlled substance was found during an illegal search and seizure by police.
A careful review of the case facts along with a thorough investigation into the alleged incident would allow our legal team to determine the most appropriate and persuasive defense tactics.
Speak with an Experienced Moreno Valley Drug Attorney
Whether you face charges involving illegal substances, prescription medication, or any other narcotic, our experienced Moreno Valley drug lawyers could help you avoid the harsh reality of a conviction. Our attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry have been successfully defending clients faced with drug charges for over 40 years. Our experience, resources, and professional relationships allow us to negotiate skillfully on your behalf to have your charges reduced or dropped entirely. Our attorneys have a proven track record of resolving cases through alternative sentencing, helping our clients avoid a criminal conviction. We recommend consulting with our legal team right away. During your free consultation, one of our attorneys could explain your options and determine what steps to take to resolve your charges.