Los Angeles Drug Crimes Lawyer

Last Modified: February 19, 2024
Los Angeles drug crimes lawyer

Facing drug charges in Los Angeles can be overwhelming and frightening. Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers understand the complexities of drug-related offenses and the stress they bring. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of defending clients against drug charges. We are dedicated to providing solid legal representation and personalized attention to each case.

At Perlman & Cohen, everyone deserves a fair trial and the best possible defense. Our lawyers are experts in Los Angeles drug laws and will fight tirelessly for your rights. We work diligently to analyze every aspect of your case, ensuring every detail is noticed. Trust us to provide the strong defense you need during this challenging time. If you have been charged with drug possession or drug paraphernalia involving a controlled substance (including prescription drugs), we can help you. A drug crime conviction can change your life forever, but we will explore all options available.

Learn more about drug possession charges and felony drug charges below. Then, contact us for a free case consultation.

Aggressive Representation From a Los Angeles Drug Crimes Lawyer

Aggressive representation from a Los Angeles drug crimes lawyer

Perlman & Cohen is known for our aggressive representation in drug crime cases. We use our deep understanding of drug laws to challenge the prosecution's case. Our approach is proactive, seeking the best outcome for our clients. We know how to navigate the legal system effectively to defend your rights while protecting you against a criminal record.

Our team doesn't just defend you; we advocate for you. We understand the stakes are high in drug crime cases. Our goal is to minimize the impact on your life and future. We relentlessly challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court. You deserve the most robust possible defense, and our law firm is prepared to provide that for you.

Understanding Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

Drug crimes in Los Angeles cover a wide range of offenses, from possession to trafficking. These crimes are taken very seriously by law enforcement and the courts. The laws governing drug crimes are complex and can be challenging to navigate without legal help. Understanding these laws is critical to building a solid defense.

In Los Angeles, drug crimes can result in severe penalties, including jail time and hefty fines. The severity of the punishment often depends on the type and amount of drug involved. Other factors, like the presence of minors, can also impact the severity of the penalties. Our lawyers help you understand these laws and how they apply to your case.

Common Drug Offenses in Los Angeles

Common drug offenses in Los Angeles

Los Angeles sees a variety of drug offenses, each with its legal implications. It is essential to look at the details of each crime to understand what the penalties are and what the defenses could be.

Possession of Controlled Substances

In Los Angeles, possessing controlled substances without a prescription is illegal. This includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, and even some prescription medications. The penalties vary based on the drug type and amount. Our lawyers are skilled in defending against possession charges. For example, possessing marijuana might be legal, depending on the amount, but possessing cocaine or heroin is not permitted under any circumstances. DEA Schedules play a significant role in determining the penalty.

Possession charges can sometimes be challenged based on the circumstances of the arrest. We examine the legality of the search and seizure. Our team ensures your rights were not violated during the arrest process. We fight to have unjust charges reduced or dismissed.

Possession With Intent To Distribute

Possession with intent to distribute involves having drugs and plans to sell them. This charge is more severe than simple possession and is almost always a felony. It often leads to harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences. Our lawyers analyze the evidence to challenge the prosecution's claim of intent.

In these cases, the amount of drugs and how they were packaged can be crucial evidence. We scrutinize this evidence to weaken the prosecution's case. We aim to show that the intent to distribute cannot be conclusively proven. We work to reduce the charges to simple possession. This is detailed under California Health and Safety Code 11351 HS, and the penalty could be multiple years in jail and a fine of up to $20,000.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking involves transporting, selling, or distributing large quantities of drugs. This is a severe felony in Los Angeles, often leading to lengthy prison sentences. The punishment could be up to nine years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. Our lawyers are experienced in handling complex trafficking cases. We use our expertise to challenge every aspect of the prosecution's case.

We look into the investigation methods used by law enforcement. Any illegal or unethical practices can be grounds to challenge the evidence. Our team works tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for a fair trial. We understand the severity of trafficking charges and provide a vigorous defense.

Manufacturing Drugs

Manufacturing drugs is another severe offense in Los Angeles. This includes producing, preparing, or processing illegal drugs. The law targets not just large-scale operations but also smaller setups. Our lawyers understand the technicalities of manufacturing charges and defend you accordingly.

We investigate whether your rights were respected during the arrest and search. If your constitutional rights were violated, we fight to have the evidence dismissed. Our team looks for weaknesses in the prosecution's case to reduce or dismiss the charges. We are committed to ensuring you receive a fair and just trial.

Prescription Drug Offenses

Prescription drug offenses include illegal possession, distribution, or forgery of prescriptions. These crimes are increasingly common and taken seriously in Los Angeles. Our lawyers are knowledgeable about prescription drug laws. We provide a strong defense for clients facing these charges.

We challenge the evidence, especially regarding the intent and knowledge of the offense. Our team works to prove that any possession or distribution was not for illegal purposes. We strive to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome for your case.

Potential Penalties for Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

The penalties and consequences for drug crimes in Los Angeles can be severe and life-altering.

Fines and Monetary Penalties

Fines for drug crimes in Los Angeles can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The amount depends on the severity of the offense and the type of drug involved. For example, fines for trafficking are generally higher than for possession. Our lawyers work to minimize these financial penalties as part of your defense. Many fines have been detailed above, but multiple factors will play a role in the final sentence.

Incarceration and Probation

Jail time is a standard penalty for drug offenses, especially for more severe crimes like trafficking or manufacturing. The length of incarceration can vary widely. Probation is also a possibility, where you must follow specific rules instead of serving time in jail. Our team fights to reduce incarceration time and seek alternatives like probation when possible. Some of the potential prison terms have been detailed above.

Asset Forfeiture

In drug crime cases, asset forfeiture can occur. This means you could lose property connected to the drug offense, like cars or money. Our lawyers understand how devastating this can be. We fight to protect your assets and challenge the forfeiture.

Factors Influencing Drug Crime Cases

Factors influencing drug crimes cases

Several factors will impact drug crime cases in Los Angeles. Some of the elements that will play a role in the sentence include:

Quantity of Drugs Involved

The quantity of drugs involved in a case can greatly influence the charges and penalties. More significant amounts often lead to more severe charges, like trafficking. Our lawyers analyze the evidence to challenge the alleged quantity. We work to reduce the severity of the charges based on this factor.

Criminal History of the Defendant

Your criminal history plays a critical role in how your case is handled. First-time offenders may receive more lenient penalties. However, repeat offenders face harsher consequences. Our team takes your history into account and advocates for fair treatment.

Intent and Knowledge

Proving intent and knowledge is crucial in drug cases. The prosecution must show you intended to commit the crime and knew about the drugs. Our lawyers challenge the prosecution's claims about your intent and knowledge. We work to create reasonable doubt about these elements.

Legal Defenses for Drug Crimes

Several legal defenses can be used in drug crime cases. A few of the most common defenses we employ include:

Unlawful Search and Seizure

The Fourth Amendment prevents individuals from being subjected to unlawful search and seizure. If law enforcement violated your rights, the evidence could be thrown out. Our lawyers examine the details of your arrest and search. We fight to have any illegally obtained evidence excluded from your case.

Lack of Evidence

A common defense is simply that there is not enough evidence. We scrutinize the evidence the prosecution has. We argue it's not enough to prove you committed the crime if it's weak. Our goal is to create doubt about the prosecution's case.

Constitutional Violations

We also look for any constitutional violations in your case. This can include rights violations beyond unlawful search and seizure. If your rights were violated, we work to have the charges reduced or dismissed. We ensure your constitutional rights are upheld.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement causes an individual to commit a crime they otherwise would not have. If you were entrapped, we argue that the charges should be dropped. We investigate the actions of law enforcement to prove entrapment.

Miranda Rights Violations

It could affect your case if law enforcement did not read your Miranda rights. We check if your rights were read correctly. If not, any statement you made may be inadmissible. We fight for fair treatment under the law.

Let Our Los Angeles Drug Crimes Lawyers Help You

At Perlman & Cohen, we offer comprehensive legal support for drug crime cases.

Legal Expertise in Drug Laws

Our lawyers have extensive knowledge of drug laws. We use this expertise to build strong defenses. We stay up-to-date with changes in drug legislation. This knowledge is crucial for providing effective legal representation.

Investigation and Case Analysis

We thoroughly investigate your case and analyze all evidence. This includes reviewing police reports and witness statements. Our detailed approach ensures we understand every aspect of your case. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to defend you.

Negotiation With Prosecutors for Plea Deals

If a plea deal is your best option, we negotiate with prosecutors. Our goal is to get the charges reduced or penalties lessened. We have a strong track record of successful plea negotiations. Our law office strives to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We can explore a drug diversion program as an alternative to incarceration.

Court Representation and Trial Defense

We represent you in court with skill and confidence. Our lawyers are experienced in trial defense. We present your case clearly and persuasively. You can trust us to be your strong advocate in the courtroom.

Handling Appeals if Necessary

If your case goes differently than planned, we're prepared to handle appeals. We review trial records for any errors, even after the trial. We work tirelessly to achieve justice for you.

Contact Our Los Angeles Drug Crimes Attorneys at Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers for a Free Consultation

Contact our Los Angeles drug crimes attorney

If you're facing drug charges in Los Angeles, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact Perlman & Cohen Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers today. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case. Our team is ready to provide the aggressive, knowledgeable defense you need.Contact us today to schedule a free case consultation with a member of our group.

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