California has a very pervasive drug abuse problem, and law enforcement officers arrest tens of thousands of people every year for illegally possessing, using, purchasing, transporting, trafficking, and selling controlled substances. The California Legislature defines which drugs and narcotics are controlled, and thus illegal to use, purchase, transport, traffic, and sell. These drugs and narcotics include cocaine, heroine, PCP, marijuana, LSD, ecstasy, and methamphetamine.

There is a fundamental difference in penalties between a conviction of possession for sales, or transportation, or trafficking of drugs/narcotics versus possession of drugs/narcotics for personal use. Generally speaking, a person who is arrested for simple possession of a controlled substance can enroll in a drug program, such as Deferred Entry of Judgment or Proposition 36, and upon successful completion of that drug program, have their case dismissed. Conversely, a person convicted of sales, or transportation, or trafficking of a controlled substance will face mandatory jail time, and not be permitted to attend a drug program. With that said, penalties for drug charges vary based on the drug(s) seized, the quantity possessed, whether or not their was an intent to sell or distribute, your criminal record, and the facts and circumstances surrounding your case.

Police officers oftentimes say in their arrest reports that narcotics and controlled substances seized from a person upon their arrest were possessed for sale or transportation, and the prosecutor will then file sales and/or transportation charges. This distinction in the charges can mean the difference in whether or not you will retain your freedom. Attorney James E. Silverstein realizes that certain individuals have drug addictions for which they need help, and he will fight aggressively to ensure that you get into a drug program to help you instead of being sent to jail.

Because of all the subtle nuances, and the vast differences in penalties applicable to the different types of drug charges, it is highly advisable that you retain an aggressive, experienced lawyer who is knowledgeable in drug laws. James E. Silverstein is such a lawyer.

James E. Silverstein will spend the time necessary with you and your family to carefully review and analyze the facts of your case, and to answer your questions. James E. Silverstein also associates with some of the best private investigators in California to ensure that every pertinent aspect of the government’s case is carefully explored and investigated, including witness statements and analysis of narcotics and drug evidence.

Do you need an experienced Southern California Criminal Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer? Contact the Law Offices of James E. Silverstein for a free consultation today at (310) 274-8400.