Van Nuys Drug Crimes Lawyer

Van Nuys Drug Crimes Attorney

Being accused of a drug crime can leave you feeling overwhelmed, lost, and isolated, especially when you have no idea how to defend yourself. Fortunately, it does not need to stay that way. With the help of a Van Nuys drug crimes lawyer, you can get the defense, guidance, and advocacy you need to pursue your desired outcomes and curb these charges.

Choose the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein to Handle Your California Drug Case

It is very important that you find the right Van Nuys criminal defense lawyer to handle your criminal drug case. With over 20 years of experience, James Silverstein of the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein understands just how much is at risk for those facing a drug crime conviction, and is both equipped and determined to defend each of his clients against their charges. Discover how the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein can help you build a powerful defense today.

An Overview of Drug Crimes in California

A recent study estimates that every year, around 1.16 million people are arrested for drug crimes across the United States. These crimes account for roughly 26% of all criminal arrests nationwide.

In the Golden State, there are several different kinds of drug crimes that a person can be charged with. Here are some examples:

• Being under the influence of a controlled substance: In California, HS 11550 clearly states that willfully using and/or being under the influence of controlled substances can be considered a drug crime.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs: If you are found to be operating a vehicle while high or influenced by the misuse of prescription drugs, you can be charged with driving under the influence of drugs, also known as a “DUID.”
• Possession of drug paraphernalia: HS 11364 outlines how, should you be found in the possession of pipes, bongs, and/or needles that are designed to smoke or use controlled substances, you can be charged with the possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Possession with intent to sell: California law HS 11351 clearly states that it is a felony to possess drugs while intending to sell them. Intent is often determined by the amount of drugs, as well as the presence of scales, packing materials, and/or large quantities of cash.
• Prescription fraud: As is outlined in HS 11368, California has made it illegal to alter and/or forge a prescription in order to obtain drugs.
• Sale or transportation of a controlled substance: According to HS 11352, it is illegal to sell, administer, furnish, and/or transport any controlled substance.
• Simple possession: In accordance with both HS 11350 and HS 11377, simple possession occurs when someone knowingly possesses a usable amount of a controlled substance, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, or any prescription medication for which they do not have a verified prescription.

Common Drugs That Are Prosecuted in California

Several different types of drugs may be more commonly prosecuted in the California legal system. These include:

• Depressants and other assorted drugs: While many Americans take legally prescribed antidepressants, others may use ketamine, Xanax, Valium, and/or GHB to get high illegally.
• Hallucinogens: There are several key hallucinogens that the California court system takes seriously, including psilocybin mushrooms and LSD.
• Opiates or opioids: Despite commonly being used interchangeably, opiates and opioids are different kinds of drugs. While opiate can be used to describe natural compounds, such as heroin and morphine, opioids include substances designed in labs and naturally occurring in nature. California usually prosecutes against heroin, fentanyl, hydrocodone, and oxycodone.
• Stimulants: The most common stimulants in drug cases are cocaine, ecstasy, also named MDMA/Molly, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine.

Hire a Drug Crimes Lawyer Today

With so much of your future depending on whether or not you are convicted for drug crimes, it can be beneficial to hire a drug possession lawyer in Van Nyus. This way, should your case go to trial at the Van Nuys Courthouse West, your lawyer can properly prepare you for what is to come, as well as present a compelling defense on your behalf.

FAQs About Van Nuys, CA Drug Crimes Law

How Long Will My Drug Case Take to Resolve in California?

In California, the precise amount of time needed to reach a verdict in a drug crime case tends to vary on a case-by-case basis. This is caused by the influence that specific outside variables can have on your overall timeline, including the schedule of your local courthouse, the number of charges you are facing, the complexity of your case, whether or not you have legal representation, the amount of evidence, and whether your charges are state or federal.

What Is the Difference Between State and Federal Charges in California?

Whenever someone is charged with a drug crime, state and federal charges are issued to describe the locational element of the case. This means that, while state crimes occur within the boundaries of state borders and involve local police, federal charges can be issued if the crime occurs over state and/or international borders, or on federal land. Federal cases typically involve entities like the Federal Bureau of Investigation and are usually carried out in federal courthouses.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Drug Crimes Lawyer in California?

Similar to the amount of time needed to reach a verdict in your case, the final cost of hiring a drug crimes lawyer to represent you in California tends to vary uniquely depending on the unique impact of several different factors, such as the level of complexity your case presents, the number of charges you are facing, your case’s overall timeline, and who you hire to represent you.

Is It Worthwhile to Hire a Van Nuys Drug Crimes Attorney in California?

Many individuals have found hiring a Van Nuys drug crimes attorney can make a difference in whether or not their case ends well, often making it a worthwhile decision. There is so much at stake for those facing drug crime charges, but choosing to enlist the help of the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein can help you get the clarity you need and even the results you want.

Get More Information Today

Contact the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein today to schedule a consultation. Learn how we can help you protect your rights and your future.