If you have been arrested on drug charges in Orange County, don’t do anything else until you find a drug crimes lawyer who can take your case. California takes an extremely aggressive approach to these crimes, and your case will likely be in the hands of a prosecutor ready to make an example out of you. Many prosecutors treat drug charges as an issue of public safety, and they’re ready to push hard for stiff penalties. If you want to protect your future and rights, you absolutely need an attorney who’s ready to fight equally as hard.
Not sure where to start your search? Check out our list of Orange County drug crimes lawyers. We have vetted each attorney via their California Bar Profile to find firms local to your area.
Drug crimes attorneys in Orange County are skilled at handling a wide range of drug charges in California, including:
The penalties can be stiff, and on top of that, a history of drug convictions can impact your sentencing in the future if you face additional criminal charges.
There are various drug charges that can result in imprisonment if you’re found guilty. Among the most severe drug-related offenses are drug possession for sale, drug manufacturing, and trafficking. Here are some common drug crimes in Orange County:
Please note that specific penalties and legal procedures may vary, and it’s highly recommended to consult with an Orange County drug crime attorney who can provide personalized guidance based on your circumstances.
Orange County takes a hard stance on drug possession, manufacturing, and selling. Even if someone is caught with a small amount of drugs in their possession, it’s not uncommon for the Orange County DA to attempt to make drug dealing charges stick. When an underage offender is brought up on drug charges, the prosecutor may still take an aggressive approach to their case.
However, much depends on the legal representation the suspect has. If your attorney can prove that they made a one-time mistake and that they are not a serial offender, there may be options available to you. For example, the defendant may be enrolled in California’s drug diversion program. This program allows some offenders to enroll in a treatment program instead of going to jail, as long as they do not have recent felony convictions. If the defendant does not get arrested again and completes their program, they can have their charges dismissed.
The drug crimes attorneys listed on this page serve clients in Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Orange, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Newport Beach, Buena Park, Tustin, Yorba Linda, Laguna Niguel, San Clemente, La Habra, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Brea, Ladera Ranch and all courts throughout Orange County and Southern California. If you or a family member has been arrested for a first, second, third or more drug offense in Orange County, you NEED to talk to a lawyer and get your questions answered, call an attorney listed here today.
Criminal penalties for drug crimes vary widely, depending on which drug is involved, how much you have in your possession, and what your specific charges are. If you are convicted of possession of a controlled substance, you could spend up to one year in jail and pay up to $20,000 in fines if you have aggravating factors. If you are convicted for possession of paraphernalia, you could be sentenced to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Those convicted of manufacturing a controlled substance may be imprisoned for up to three years and pay a fine as high as $20,000. Even being in public under the influence of a drug can lead to a conviction. A conviction for being under the influence could cost you up to $1,000 and one year in jail.
The consequences of a drug conviction are severe and long-lasting, affecting every part of your life. Take charge now and contact a drug crimes attorney in Orange County.