Martinez

Drug Lawyer

If you have been arrested for a drug crime, you could be facing harsh consequences. Depending on the circumstances, the amount, and the type of the drug involved, you could be looking at years in prison and thousands in fines. A Martinez drug lawyer could calm your concerns and develop an effective plan for fighting back against the charges on your behalf.

Whether you are facing charges of possession, possession with intent to distribute, sales, or manufacturing, the potential penalties can go beyond those that you receive through the criminal justice system. You could lose your employment, housing, and have a permanent criminal record. A skilled defense attorney could review your case and develop a defense to improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

How are Controlled Substances Defined in Martinez?

All drug crimes involve drugs classified as controlled substances under the Federal Controlled Substance Act (CSA). Drugs are categorized in different schedules based on their level of danger, risk of misuse, and any accepted medical uses. Schedule I drugs are the most hazardous substances with the highest rates of abuse, whereas other drugs fall into progressively less severe categories.

Not only do controlled substances include illegal street drugs like heroin or cocaine or manufactured drugs like methamphetamine, but they also include prescription drugs. Many painkillers and opiates, such as Oxycodone and Vicodin, qualify as controlled substances. Other common prescription drugs that are controlled substances under the CSA include hallucinogens, prescription drugs such as Xanax and Valium, and even cough suppressants containing codeine.

Although marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the CSA, the state has taken steps to decriminalize marijuana. Many other states have pursued this same path. By consulting an accomplished attorney in Martinez, individuals can explore their options for resolving their drug cases in a manner most favorable to them.

Types of Drug Offenses in Martinez

Drug crimes cover a broad range of charges and penalties, from low-level misdemeanors to high-level felonies. One factor in the severity of the penalty for a drug crime is the type of offense involved. An experienced Martinez attorney could build a case against any drug related charge.

Is Possession of Controlled Substances a Serious Crime?

Although simple drug possession now has much more lenient penalties, individuals can still face jail time and other harsh penalties. Multiple possession convictions can result in higher charges and more severe penalties. Most simple possession charges for personal use constitute a misdemeanor offense with the potential for a county jail sentence of no more than one year and associated fines and fees.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

Possession of controlled substances, whether they are street drugs or prescription drugs, with the intent to distribute or sell them to others, is illegal under state law. These criminal offenses are much more severe than simple drug possession offenses and typically result in felony charges. Individuals can face two to four years in prison if convicted of possession with intent to distribute.

Distributing or Transporting Controlled Substances

When people transport or sell controlled substances to others, particularly in large quantities, they may also face felony charges. Depending on the situation, individuals can receive prison terms ranging from three to nine years. The type and amount of drug involved in the distribution can also impact the penalties that individuals receive for a conviction.

Speak with a Martinez Drug Attorney for Advice

Attempting to handle your defense on your own may prove to be damaging to your case. If you have been accused of possessing an illegal substance, you may benefit from the assistance of a Martinez drug lawyer who can protect your rights and build your defense. Speak with experienced legal counsel today to begin protecting your future.