Los Angeles Cocaine Possession Attorney
In Los Angeles, California, cocaine possession is a grave offense under Health and Safety Code 11350. A conviction for simple cocaine possession can result in a state prison sentence of up to 3 years, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate legal assistance.
It's important to note that even if you were not under the influence of cocaine at the time of your arrest, you could still be charged with possession if it was found in your immediate possession or on your property and you were aware of its presence.
Los Angeles, both at the State and Federal levels, takes an uncompromising stance against cocaine possession. It is a felony offense to be in possession of any amount of cocaine, and the authorities will vigorously pursue a conviction, regardless of your prior criminal history, emphasizing the need for professional legal representation.
In order to obtain a cocaine possession conviction, Los Angeles County prosecutors must prove that you had the cocaine in your possession, that you knew the cocaine was your possession, and that you had control over it.
California Health and Safety Code 109575 HS makes it a crime to manufacture, distribute, or possess an imitation controlled substance knowingly or with the intent to distribute it.
California Penal Code 4573.5 prohibits bringing or possessing drugs or alcohol inside a jail or prison, sending or attempting to send controlled substances into a correctional facility, and knowingly transporting contraband into detention centers.
If you have been accused of certain California drug crimes, it might be possible to avoid a jail or prison sentence through a drug diversion program, commonly known as deferred entry of judgment. Further, you might be eligible for a drug court.
Cocaine Possession for Sale
Possession of cocaine for sale is also considered a felony drug crime under California Health & Safety Code 11351. However, to secure a possession with intent to sell conviction, prosecutors must prove that you actually had the intent to sell the cocaine. Los Angeles prosecutors usually claim that the criminal element of “intent to sell” can be proven based on the circumstances surrounding the cocaine drug charges:
- By proving the amount of cocaine in your possession was more than just for personal use
- Showing evidence that the cocaine was packaged into numerous small bags
- Presenting evidence of the possession of weight scales or large sums of cash
According to California Health and Safety Code 11355 HS, it is unlawful to agree to sell, provide, transport, administer, or give a controlled substance and then deliver a fake, substitute, or imitation drug instead.
Contact a Defense Lawyer for Help
In California, possession of a controlled substance, such as a usable amount of heroin, cocaine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription, is illegal.
Suppose you are now facing state or federal cocaine criminal charges in Los Angeles. In that case, you must obtain experienced Los Angeles criminal lawyers who will aggressively fight for your legal rights and protect your freedom.
Any knowledgeable drug crime attorney should consider if your rights were violated during the arrest, if the search & seizure laws were violated, if you knowingly had possession of the cocaine, and if police used entrapment to make the arrest.
At Cron, Israels & Stark, our Los Angeles defense attorneys work aggressively to seek the best possible outcome to your cocaine criminal charges. In drug cases where the charges cannot be dismissed, we will work to ensure that the charges are minimized and that they do not result in a strike under California's Three Strikes Law.
Any cocaine conviction carries severe penalties that can significantly impact your personal and professional life for many years. Therefore, it is crucial to have an experienced drug crime lawyer on your side to navigate these potential consequences, highlighting the urgency of seeking legal help.
If you have been arrested for any type of cocaine criminal offense anywhere in the Los Angeles area, then call our office today for a free case evaluation. Your call is strictly confidential. We will handle your drug crime charges discreetly and with compassion. We are here to help guide you through the complex legal process associated with your cocaine charges.