Temecula Drug Crimes Lawyer

Aggressive Defense for Drug Charges in Temecula 

While California has legalized medical and recreational marijuana, many drug crimes still carry harsh penalties. Even the possession of certain amounts of marijuana, along with sales, delivery, and cultivation, can lead to misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances. Other drug crimes involving controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, PCP, fentanyl, and more can result in jail or prison sentences, hefty fines, and probation. Being caught with or distributing unauthorized prescription medicines in the state is another type of drug crime that is investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

When facing any drug crime, you need an experienced and skilled trial attorney who can take your case all the way through to a judge and jury, if necessary. At DeLimon Law, you can work with a former prosecutor who has a thorough understanding of how the other side works. That gives our firm a valuable edge when taking on any case. 

Facing a drug charge? Don’t risk your future with a conviction that could impact your job, housing, and freedom. Contact us today for a free consultation at (951) 777-9104, and let us fight for you. Hablamos español!

Common Drug Offenses in California

Like other states, California lists drugs according to “schedules” based on their level of addictiveness and danger to users. Five schedules have been created, from I to V, with the most dangerous drugs in schedules I and II. 

How you are charged in any drug crime will depend on the schedule that the drugs found in your possession fall under, their quantity, your intent, and previous convictions, if any. 

Drug crimes can include:

• Possession for your own use
• Possession with intent to sell or distribute
• Sales or distribution
• Cultivation or manufacture
• Trafficking

Penalties for Drug Crimes

Penalties for drug crimes will depend on the charges. Possession of any type of drug can carry penalties of up to a year in jail, along with fines. More serious crimes, such as possession with the intent to distribute, carry penalties of up to four years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $20,000. The harshest penalties are imposed for crimes involving drug transactions, such as transporting, offering, or selling. Incarceration sentences for these types of crimes can range from three to nine years. 

Defenses Against Drug Crime Charges

If you’re facing drug charges, several legal defenses may apply to your case. A strong defense can help reduce or even dismiss your charges.

• Unlawful Search and Seizure – Police must follow strict rules when searching your property. If they searched your home, car, or personal belongings without a warrant or probable cause, the evidence against you may be thrown out.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent – To be convicted, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly possessed drugs. If you were unaware of the drugs in your home, car, or bag, you might have a valid defense.
• Entrapment – If law enforcement pressured or tricked you into committing a drug crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, it may be considered entrapment. This defense can apply if undercover officers used unfair tactics to get you to buy or sell drugs.
• Crime Lab Analysis Errors – Just because police claim they found illegal drugs doesn’t mean they are correct. The substance must be tested by a lab to confirm it is actually an illegal drug. Mistakes in lab testing can lead to wrongful charges.
• Police Misconduct – If officers planted evidence, used excessive force, or violated your rights in any way, this could be used to challenge the case against you.

Federal vs. State Drug Charges

Drug charges can be handled at either the state or federal level, depending on the circumstances.

• When Drug Crimes Become Federal Offenses – If drugs were transported across state lines, involved large quantities, or were found on federal property, the case may be prosecuted at the federal level.
• Differences in Penalties – Federal drug charges usually come with harsher sentences, including mandatory minimum prison time. State charges often offer more options like probation or drug diversion programs.
• Agencies Involved – Federal cases are often investigated by agencies like the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration), FBI, and Homeland Security, while state cases are handled by local police and state prosecutors.

Impact of Drug Convictions on Your Future

A drug conviction can affect your life in many ways beyond jail time.

• Employment Challenges – Many employers conduct background checks, and a drug conviction could limit job opportunities.
• Professional License Issues – Doctors, nurses, lawyers, and other professionals may lose their licenses after a drug conviction, making it difficult to continue their careers.
• Immigration Consequences – Noncitizens convicted of drug crimes may face deportation, visa denials, or other immigration problems.
• Housing and Loans – A conviction can make it harder to rent an apartment, qualify for a mortgage, or receive financial aid for school.

Having an experienced lawyer can help you fight your charges and protect your future. If you're facing a drug crime accusation, reach out for legal guidance immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Drug Crimes

Can I Be Arrested for Drugs That Belong to Someone Else?

• Yes. If drugs are found in your home, car, or belongings, you can be charged with possession—even if they are not yours. However, a strong defense can argue that you had no knowledge of the drugs.

What Happens If It’s My First Drug Offense?

• First-time offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing, such as a drug diversion program, instead of jail time. These programs focus on treatment and education rather than punishment.

Can a Drug Charge Be Removed from My Record?

• In some cases, yes. If you complete a diversion program or your case is dismissed, you may be eligible for expungement, which clears the conviction from your record.

Will I Go to Jail for a Small Amount of Drugs?

• Possession of a small amount for personal use may result in probation, fines, or diversion rather than jail time. However, penalties depend on the drug type, quantity, and any prior offenses.

What’s the Difference Between Possession and Possession with Intent to Sell?

• The key difference is intent. If you have a large quantity of drugs, packaging materials, or large amounts of cash, prosecutors may argue that you intended to sell rather than use the drugs yourself.

Can I Be Charged with a Drug Crime Without Actually Having Drugs on Me?

• Yes. You can be charged with constructive possession, meaning the drugs were in a place you control—like your car, home, or locker—even if they weren’t in your hands or pockets.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me with My Drug Charge?

• A skilled lawyer can challenge evidence, negotiate reduced charges, or even get your case dismissed. They can also explore alternative sentencing options to keep you out of jail.

Reach Out to DeLimon Law Today

A drug crime conviction can disrupt your life in many ways. Aside from criminal penalties, you will have a criminal record that can make obtaining employment, housing, educational opportunities, and professional licenses difficult. Noncitizens may face deportation. The sooner you contact our firm, the better we can protect your rights and interests in seeking an optimum outcome. 

In addition to defending clients against drug charges, DeLimon Law also provides legal representation for sex crimes and violent crimes. If you are facing accusations of assault, domestic violence, sexual abuse, or other serious offenses, our team is ready to protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf.

Know your rights and protect your future! A strong legal defense can reduce or even dismiss your charges. Contact us now at (951) 777-9104 to discuss your case and explore your options. Hablamos español!