In Los Angeles and throughout California, illegal “street drugs” and controlled substances are classified into 5 categories within the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act. Drugs and controlled substances with higher rates of abuse and greater potential for psychological, and physical dependence are considered the most dangerous and, therefore, punished more harshly. The Los Angeles drug crimes penalties you face if charged are influenced by several factors such as which drug you were arrested for possessing, the amount of the controlled substance you possessed, whether you were in possession with intent to sell or distribute, and your prior criminal history. In November 2014, California voters passed Prop. 47, a decriminalization measure, which resulted in controlled substances such as Meth, Cocaine, Heroin, and Concentrated Cannabis to be reclassified as misdemeanor drug crimes instead of the felony drug offenses they once were.
While the majority of possession for personal use or “simple possession” charges are now prosecuted as misdemeanor drug crimes in Los Angeles, these “lesser” drug crimes can still result in criminal records and punishments such as jail time, fines, and probation. Therefore, if you have been arrested or charged in Los Angeles with drug or narcotics possession or possession of a controlled substance, you should immediately contact Los Angeles drug lawyers with experience and expertise in defending drug crimes. Drug diversion programs are available, which if successfully completed, can result in the dismissal of your drug or narcotics crime. However, not all drug crimes are eligible for drug diversion as drug crimes involving allegations of possession with intent to sell, drug sales, or drug transportation with intent to sell are “straight” felonies in Los Angeles and are NOT eligible for drug diversion programs.
Whether evidence was obtained through an illegal search or other violations of your constitutional rights, our experienced attorneys are prepared to investigate and litigate every aspect of your case to insure the best result. Call us now at (888) 579-4844 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
