Being charged with a drug crime in Riverside can completely disrupt your life and liberty. The penalties for drug offenses in California are harsh, ranging from hefty fines to years behind bars. But an experienced Riverside drug crimes defense attorney has the skills to outmaneuver the charges against you. Do not leave your fate to chance – retain a lawyer who will aggressively defend your rights at every stage.
The Complexities of California Drug Laws
California regulates both illegal street drugs and the misuse of prescription medications under the state’s controlled substances laws. These laws are complex, involving many subtleties that a skilled lawyer understands. For example:
- The weight thresholds that distinguish between misdemeanor and felony charges
- The difference between possession for personal use and possession with intent to sell
- When an expired prescription provides a valid defense against charges
- When drug analogues like designer drugs should be treated as illegal
With deep expertise in California drug statutes, a local Riverside defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and formulate strong defense strategies based on the nuances of the law.
Common Riverside Drug Crimes We Defend
Our dedicated drug crimes defense team assists clients facing a wide range of charges, including:
- Simple drug possession
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Being under the influence of controlled substances
- Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID)
- Intent to sell, distribute, or manufacture drugs
- Drug sales and distribution
- Drug trafficking and transportation
- Marijuana cultivation and sales
- Prescription drug offenses
No matter the specific allegations against you, we undertake a thorough independent investigation of what occurred and build the strongest defense to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Crafting a Strategic Legal Defense
As your attorneys, we don’t take the prosecution’s charges at face value. We critically examine their version of events and the evidence, and look for opportunities to dismantle their case by showing:
- The search leading to your arrest violated your Constitutional rights
- You had a valid prescription for the drugs
- The substance was not illegal, but an analogue
- You never possessed the quantity alleged
- Someone else had access to the drugs
- You had no knowledge of or control over the drugs
Our goal at every stage is full acquittal or dismissal of charges, but we also leverage our litigation experience to negotiate reduced pleas when appropriate. Our courtroom skills and willingness to file key pre-trial motions put pressure on the prosecution.
Why an Aggressive Defense is Essential
The reality is that drug convictions, even misdemeanors, come with life-long consequences that devastate your finances, career, education, family life, and reputation. Some examples in Riverside/California:
- Up to 3 years in county jail for drug possession misdemeanors
- 2-10 years in state prison for drug sales felonies
- Fines up to $10,000 for possession, $50,000 for sales
- Driver’s license suspension up to 5 years
- Felony record visible to employers/schools
- Elimination of student financial aid
- Deportation for non-citizens
- Family Child Services involvement
- Mandatory addiction programs
- Probation and parole limitations
You need someone in your corner willing to aggressively challenge the government’s version of events at every opportunity. We aim to get charges reduced or dismissed entirely, keeping your record clean.
FAQs: Riverside Drug Crime Defense
What should I do if the police find drugs in my car?
You should politely decline to answer any questions and ask to speak with a defense lawyer immediately. Cooperating or explaining yourself further can only produce more evidence against you. Call us right away and we can begin safeguarding your rights.
What is the best defense against drug possession charges?
The best defense depends on the specifics of your case, but common strategies are challenging unconstitutional searches, arguing lack of knowledge/intent, and contesting the chain of custody of evidence. An experienced lawyer will pursue every viable defense.
Can you go to jail for prescription drug crimes?
Yes, illegally possessing and distributing prescription medications carry similar criminal penalties to street drugs. However, having a valid prescription can provide an absolute defense. An attorney can help distinguish between valid prescription use vs. criminal abuse.
Do not leave your freedom in the hands of the police and prosecutors. Retain a seasoned Riverside drug crimes defense lawyer who will fight relentlessly to protect you. Call now for a free case review from a trusted local attorney.
Get The Legal Help You Need in Riverside County
If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime in Riverside County, contact Wohl Law right away for a free consultation. With over 27 years of experience, attorney David Wohl is a tough litigator and savvy negotiator who has achieved favorable results for clients facing charges ranging from DUIs and drug crimes to violent offenses and sex crimes.
Wohl Law understands the devastating impact a criminal conviction can have on your future. That’s why our criminal defense attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, pursue every possible defense strategy, and fight vigorously in court to protect your freedom and rights.
Don’t wait to hire a California defense attorney after being charged with a DUI, violent crime, theft, or sex crime. Your reputation, career, and family life are at stake and it’s important to do what you can to protect your rights. Call Wohl Criminal Defense today for a consultation at 951-384-7375.