The state of California recognizes drugs crimes as a very serious charge and the penalties that are carried with this accusation are tough. The controlled substances do not even necessarily have to be on you, if they are around you or directly inside a possession of yours (such as a car), you could be arrested. If you have been charged with possession, even a small amount of a controlled substance, you could be facing jail time, fines and probation. If you were found with large amounts of any particular illegal drug along with cash, scales or packaging material, you could be charged with intent to sell. Even being caught with drug paraphernalia or large amounts of prescription drugs can be enough for an investigating officer to place you under arrest.

California classifies drugs in "schedules". Each schedule directly correlates to the dangerousness or addictiveness of the drug. For example, a Schedule I drug would be considered highly dangerous and addictive, as a Schedule II drug would be slightly less dangerous, Schedule III even more so. If you were found in possession of cocaine or the basis to make cocaine, this Schedule I drug would land you with much harsher penalties than a lower schedule drug...such as marijuana. However, marijuana is still illegal in the state of California and being found in possession of any amount could have you facing an infraction or a felony charge.

Lake Elsinore Drug Crimes Attorney

If you have been arrested and accused of a drug crime such as possession or sale of illegal controlled substances, do not lose hope. With the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you may still be able to fight for your rights and freedoms. An attorney can help gather all necessary evidence in your defense thoroughly investigate all angles of your arrest. Sometimes, arresting officers did not have a valid reason to search or even a legitimate search warrant on them. Most often, drug offenders are first time offenders and a lawyer at our office can help reduce your charges or offer to have you serve any jail time in a drug rehabilitation center.

Do not hesitate in contacting a Lake Elsinore criminal defense lawyer.