Facing a drug crime charge in Encinitas, California, can feel overwhelming for defendants, as these charges can be serious and carry significant consequences. When the stakes are so high, it’s important to work with an attorney who thoroughly understands criminal defense law and how to protect you and your rights.
You never have to handle criminal charges alone. If you have questions or are facing a drug crime charge, Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers can provide the legal assistance you need. Call us today at (619) 357-4977 to schedule a free consultation with an Encinitas drug crimes lawyer.
Why Hire Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Drug Crimes in Encinitas, CA?
When you’re facing drug charges in Encinitas, CA, choosing the right defense team can completely change your future. Our firm brings personalized strategies and a fierce commitment to your rights, no matter what the police allege.
Here’s why clients continue to choose our Encinitas criminal defense lawyers:
- 14+ years of experience focused on criminal defense
- More than 100 five-star reviews from past clients
- Recognized by The National Trial Lawyers as Top 100 Attorneys
- Honored with a Top 40 Under 40 Trial Attorney designation
- Perfect 10.0 Avvo lawyer rating
When you work with Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, you get honesty, relentless effort, and legal guidance at every single step when dealing with drug charges in Encinitas. Consultations are free and completely confidential, so reach out today to speak with an Encinitas drug crimes attorney.
Overview of Drug Crimes in California
Drug crimes are taken very seriously in California, and state law covers a broad range of offenses related to illegal substances.
Drug Possession
Drug possession charges involve having illegal drugs for personal use. It covers controlled substances like meth, cocaine, heroin, prescription pills without a valid prescription, and more.
Possession With Intent to Distribute
Having a large quantity of drugs, packaging materials, or certain drug paraphernalia—such as scales—can lead to an “intent to distribute” charge, which brings much harsher consequences than simple possession.
Prosecutors try to prove that you did not just have drugs for personal use but planned to sell or distribute them.
Drug Trafficking
One of the most serious drug offenses is trafficking, which means moving, selling, or transporting for sale large quantities of drugs. Charges can be state or federal, and can lead to serious consequences.
If you’re facing any type of drug charge, it’s important to seek legal help right away.
What Are the Penalties For Drug Crimes in Encinitas, California?
Drug crime penalties in Encinitas vary depending on the charge, the type of substance, your criminal history, and how prosecutors decide to file the case.
Possession of Controlled Substances
Most cases of simple possession under California’s Proposition 47 are treated as misdemeanors, which carry up to one year in county jail and possible fines.
Possession For Sale
This charge is much more serious and is always considered a felony. If convicted of possession for sale, you could be facing sentences in state prison and steep financial penalties. Prosecutors often rely on evidence of packaging, scales, or even large amounts of money to prove intent.
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is among the most severe drug charges in California and is always prosecuted as a felony. In aggravated cases involving large quantities, prior convictions, or federal prosecution, penalties can extend to decades in prison.
Depending on the specific facts, a drug conviction can threaten your future in significant ways.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Drug Crimes?
Being arrested for a drug crime in Encinitas doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty – many strong defenses might apply to your case. Your Encinitas criminal defense attorney can review every fact with you, looking for any mistakes by the police or weaknesses in the evidence.
Common defenses include:
- The drugs did not actually belong to you, and you had no control over or knowledge of them.
- Police misconduct, such as entrapment or falsifying reports, led to your arrest.
- Evidence was collected in violation of your constitutional rights, such as during an illegal traffic stop or search.
- The substance in question is not actually an illegal drug, based on flawed testing or laboratory error.
- The chain of custody for the drugs was broken, so the prosecutor couldn’t prove that what was found truly came from you.
- There is insufficient or unreliable evidence connecting you to the alleged drug activity. You have a valid prescription for the medications found.
- The amount found does not support charges of intent to distribute or trafficking.
The best defense option will depend on the facts of your case and the type of charges you face.
Moving forward after an arrest, you don’t have to face the system alone. Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers can be your advocate and fight to help you get the best possible outcome allowed by the facts of your case and the law, whether that’s fighting the case at trial or pleading guilty to a lesser offense.
If you’ve already been questioned, do not answer any more law enforcement questions without an attorney by your side. Call us as soon as you’re ready to get started on your defense to schedule a free consultation with an Encinitas drug crimes lawyer.