Defend Yourself From Drug Charges

Welcome to the Drug Crime service page of Shnider Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys understand the seriousness of drug-related charges and are committed to providing our clients with the legal representation and support they need.

Drug Crime Laws:

Drug crimes are prosecuted under both federal and state laws. The penalties for drug-related offenses can be severe, ranging from significant prison time to hefty fines and mandatory drug treatment programs. Some drug offenses are also categorized as felonies, which can have lifelong consequences, including losing voting rights, difficulty finding employment, and other social stigmas.

In California, drug crimes encompass many offenses, including possession, distribution, cultivation, and trafficking of controlled substances. California has some of the harshest drug laws in the country, which means that the stakes are high when facing drug-related charges.

Comprehensive Drug Crime Defense:

various types of drug crimes. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in California’s drug laws and will tailor a strong defense strategy based on the specific charges you are facing. Here are some common types of drug crimes and potential defenses:

Drug Possession:

Drug possession charges involve unlawfully possessing controlled substances. Defenses for drug possession may include:

a. Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an illegal search or seizure, we can challenge the admissibility of the evidence obtained.

b. Lack of Knowledge or Ownership: If you were unaware of the presence of drugs or can prove that you had no ownership or control over them, it may be possible to argue that you should not be held responsible.

c. Valid Prescription: If you possessed a controlled substance with a valid prescription, we can present evidence to support your lawful possession of the medication.

Drug Distribution and Trafficking:

Charges related to drug distribution and trafficking involve the sale, transportation, distribution, or manufacturing of illegal drugs. Defenses for drug distribution and trafficking may include:

a. Lack of Intent: If there is insufficient evidence to prove that you intended to distribute drugs, we can challenge the prosecution’s case by presenting alternative explanations for the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense.

b. Entrapment: If law enforcement used tactics that induced or coerced you into committing the crime, such as pressuring or persuading you to engage in drug-related activities that you would not have otherwise done, we can argue entrapment as a defense.

c. Insufficient Evidence: We will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, or informant reliability, to identify weaknesses or inconsistencies that cast doubt on the allegations against you.

Drug Manufacturing:

Drug manufacturing charges involve the production or cultivation of illegal drugs. Defenses for drug manufacturing may include:

a. Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the search and seizure process, we can challenge the admissibility of any evidence obtained as a result.

b. Lack of Intent: If you can demonstrate that the substances or materials found were not intended for drug manufacturing purposes, but for legitimate or personal use, we can argue that you should not be held liable for drug manufacturing.

c. Insufficient Evidence: We will thoroughly examine the prosecution’s evidence, including lab reports and witness testimonies, to identify any inconsistencies, errors, or doubts regarding the alleged drug manufacturing activities.

Drug Paraphernalia:

Drug paraphernalia charges involve possessing, manufacturing, or distributing equipment or materials used in connection with drug-related activities. Defenses for drug paraphernalia charges may include:

a. Lack of Intent: If you can show that the items in question were not intended for drug-related activities but had a legitimate purpose, such as common household items, we can challenge the prosecution’s assertion that they were used for drug-related purposes.

b. Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted an illegal search or seizure without a proper warrant or probable cause, we can argue that the evidence obtained should be suppressed.

c. Knowledge or Control: If you can demonstrate that you had no knowledge of the presence of drug paraphernalia or lacked control over the items, we can present a defense against the charges.

Navigating the complexities of drug crime defenses requires in-depth knowledge of the law and expertise in criminal defense strategies. Our skilled attorneys will analyze the specific details of your case, gather evidence, consult with experts when necessary, and build a robust defense tailored to your situation.

California and Federal Laws Regarding Drug Crimes

Drug crimes encompass a wide range of offenses involving the possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances. Both California state law and federal law address drug-related offenses, each with its own set of statutes and penalties. Understanding the laws governing drug crimes is essential when facing charges. The following is an overview of California and federal laws pertaining to drug offenses:

California State Law:

Health and Safety Code: California’s primary law governing drug offenses is the Health and Safety Code, particularly Division 10, which outlines regulations and penalties related to controlled substances. This code classifies drugs into different schedules based on their potential for abuse, medical value, and safety.

Possession: Under California law, drug possession is charged based on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Possession of controlled substances for personal use is generally charged as a misdemeanor, but certain drugs or larger amounts can lead to felony charges.

Possession with Intent to Sell: Possessing drugs with the intent to sell, distribute, or transport them is a more serious offense. Factors such as drug quantity, packaging, and other evidence of sales activity can determine whether this charge is filed as a misdemeanor or felony.

Drug Manufacturing: The manufacture or cultivation of controlled substances, such as methamphetamine or marijuana, is a felony offense in California. The penalties vary depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.

Drug Trafficking: California law prohibits drug trafficking, which involves the transportation, distribution, or sale of controlled substances. Penalties for drug trafficking offenses depend on various factors, including the type and quantity of drugs, prior convictions, and involvement in organized criminal activities.

Federal Law:

Controlled Substances Act (CSA): The CSA is the primary federal law regulating controlled substances. It categorizes drugs into different schedules, similar to California law, and provides guidelines for drug manufacturing, distribution, and possession. Violations of the CSA can lead to federal drug charges and severe penalties.

Drug Possession: Federal law prohibits the possession of controlled substances, including illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. Penalties for drug possession convictions in federal court can result in significant prison sentences, depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.

Drug Trafficking: Federal law addresses drug trafficking offenses, targeting individuals involved in the transportation, distribution, or sale of controlled substances across state lines or international borders. Federal drug trafficking charges carry harsh penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.

Drug Conspiracy: Engaging in a drug conspiracy involves an agreement with others to commit drug-related offenses. Federal law allows for the prosecution of individuals involved in drug conspiracies, even if they did not directly participate in the actual drug transactions. Conspiracy charges can result in severe consequences.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences: Federal drug offenses often carry mandatory minimum sentences, which require judges to impose specific minimum prison terms upon conviction. These mandatory minimums vary based on drug type, quantity, and prior convictions.

Navigating the complexities of California and federal drug laws requires a skilled defense attorney with expertise in this area. At Shnider Law Firm, our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of the applicable statutes and defenses related to drug crimes. We will evaluate the specifics of your case, challenge the evidence against you, and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Building Your Defense Strategy:

Every drug crime case is unique, and our attorneys will craft a defense strategy based on the specific circumstances of your situation. Our approach includes:

Fourth Amendment Violations: We will scrutinize the search and seizure procedures employed by law enforcement. If your constitutional rights were violated, such as an illegal search or an invalid search warrant, we will file appropriate motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.

Challenging the Prosecution’s Evidence: Our attorneys will thoroughly review the prosecution’s evidence, including witness statements, lab reports, and surveillance footage. We will explore potential weaknesses, inconsistencies, or alternative explanations to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.

Investigating Law Enforcement Conduct: If there are concerns regarding law enforcement conduct, such as entrapment, informant reliability, or unlawful interrogation practices, we will conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover any misconduct that may impact your defense.

Expert Testimony: We have access to a network of credible experts who can provide professional opinions and testify on your behalf. From forensic toxicologists to medical professionals, their expertise can strengthen your defense and challenge the prosecution’s arguments.

Negotiation and Alternative Sentencing: If appropriate, we will engage in strategic negotiations with the prosecution to seek reduced charges, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing options such as drug rehabilitation instead of incarceration. Our goal is to mitigate the potential consequences and seek the most favorable resolution for your case.

Our Approach:

At Shnider Law Firm, our approach to drug crime defense is centered around providing comprehensive and personalized legal representation tailored to your situation. We begin by conducting a thorough case evaluation, examining the evidence, arrest procedures, and potential constitutional violations.

Our attorneys have extensive knowledge of California state and federal drug laws, enabling us to develop effective defense strategies that challenge the prosecution’s case. We analyze the evidence in detail and conduct our own investigation, working with skilled investigators and experts to gather additional information.

We aim to build a strong defense that casts doubt on the prosecution’s evidence and protects your rights. We are skilled negotiators, advocating for favorable outcomes through plea bargaining when appropriate. If your case proceeds to trial, our experienced attorneys provide aggressive courtroom representation, presenting your defense, cross-examining witnesses, and protecting your interests.

We also offer post-conviction relief options, including appeals and sentence modifications. At Shnider Law Firm, we protect your rights, fight for your future, and provide you with the best defense possible. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Our Services:

At Shnider Law Firm, our attorneys have years of experience in handling a wide range of drug-related cases, including:

Possession: Our attorneys have experience defending against drug possession charges, which can carry significant penalties, including fines and jail time.

Distribution: Our attorneys are well-versed in defending against drug distribution charges, which can arise from various circumstances, including sales, transportation, and manufacturing.

Trafficking: Our attorneys have experience handling drug trafficking cases, which can carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Prescription Fraud: Our attorneys have experience defending against prescription fraud charges, which can arise from various circumstances, including using forged or altered prescriptions.

Why Choose Shnider Law Firm:

Experienced Attorneys: Our attorneys have years of experience handling drug-related cases and are well-versed in federal and California drug laws.

Comprehensive Defense Strategy: We take a comprehensive approach to each case we handle, analyzing the evidence and developing a customized defense strategy that considers your case’s unique circumstances.

Proactive and Meticulous: We believe in being proactive and meticulous in our approach to drug-related cases. Our attorneys will leave no stone unturned in our investigation and analysis of the evidence against you.

Contact Us:

If you or someone you know has been accused of a drug-related offense, it’s crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We are here to protect your rights and provide you with the necessary legal representation.