Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer

If you're facing drug charges, the consequences can be severe. At William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, our Los Angeles drug crime lawyer provides strong legal defense for clients accused of possession, sale, transportation of drugs, or manufacturing of controlled substances. We are dedicated to safeguarding your rights, freedoms, and future within the framework of California law.

Our Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer Will Defend Your Freedom and Future

Drug charges in Los Angeles can result in jail time, large fines, and a lasting criminal record. Our law firm offers aggressive legal defense backed by decades of courtroom experience in both state and federal courts. Every case is handled with personal attention and a defense strategy built around your specific situation.

Types of Drug Charges in California

California's Health and Safety Code categorizes drug offenses along a spectrum, from minor infractions to significant felonies. Common charges include:

 
• The act of possessing drugs, which encompasses possession with the intention to distribute
 
• Drug trafficking and distribution, often charged under HS 11352 
 
• Manufacturing drugs, such as methamphetamine or ecstasy
 
• Prescription fraud, involving drugs like Vicodin, Xanax, or Percocet
 
• Possession of drug paraphernalia, like bongs, glass and metal pipes, or syringes

These charges carry serious penalties. If convicted, you may face time in County Jail or state prison, along with probation, restitution, and a permanent record.

Controlled Substances and Drug Schedules

California classifies drugs using the DEA Schedules I-V system:

 
• Schedule I includes heroin, ecstasy, and other drugs with high abuse risk
 
• Schedule II covers substances like cocaine, meth, and OxyContin
 
• Schedule III-V includes less dangerous substances like Xanax, Fentanyl, and marijuana

The classification of the drug involved plays a big role in how harsh your sentence can be. Higher scheduled drugs often mean tougher charges and longer jail sentences.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

The classification of drug offenses in Los Angeles County-as either a misdemeanor or a felony-is contingent upon factors such as the drug's nature, its amount, and the perpetrator's intent. Under the California Penal Code, even first-time offenders can face jail time, large fines, and lengthy probation.

Some crimes-such as transportation of narcotics, drug sale, or possession of crack-can bring longer sentences, especially when committed near schools or if the person has prior criminal charges. Sentence enhancements may also apply to repeat offenses or crimes involving minors.

The consequences go beyond jail. A conviction can lead to:

 
• Loss of a driver's license
 
• Immigration problems, including deportation
 
• Barriers to employment and housing
 
• Denial of professional licenses

Your criminal record may also affect plea deals, asset forfeiture, or opportunities for expungement. Proposition 47 and Proposition 64 may reduce some charges, but not all. Working with skilled criminal defense lawyers gives you the best chance at protecting your future.

How William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law Can Help

With over 20 years of fighting criminal cases, our team at William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law knows how to get results.

Our legal representation includes:

 
• Investigation and case analysis to challenge probable cause and evidence
 
• Reviewing for Miranda Rights violations or illegal traffic stops
 
• Negotiating plea options that avoid trial
 
• Representing clients at arraignment, bail bond hearings, and jury trials

We've defended clients in Los Angeles Office locations, including the Van Nuys Courthouse, against all levels of narcotics offenses. From juvenile cases and prescription drug offenses to drug prescription fraud and recreational marijuana, we use proven strategies that get results.

Whether you're facing a police sting, forensic fingerprint analysis, or DNA analysis, we know how to challenge the process and defend your legal rights in the criminal justice system.

Defense Strategies for Drug Charges

When facing drug charges, the right criminal defense can make the difference between a conviction and a case dismissal. At William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, we start by reviewing the evidence, the criminal investigation, and any possible violations of your rights. Every step must follow California criminal law, from the arrest to how the drugs were handled. We also work with professional investigators and experts, such as those in forensic toxicology, to build a strong defense.

Drug cases often overlap with other charges like weapons charges, sex crimes, white-collar crimes, or even violent crimes.

Illegal Search and Seizure

Many drug arrests involve violations of your 4th Amendment rights. If law enforcement conducted an unlawful traffic stop, raided your home without cause, or used a search warrant improperly, the case may not hold up in court. Any drugs found through an illegal search should be excluded from evidence. Our firm has had many cases dismissed based on illegal search issues.

Lack of Knowledge or Possession

You cannot be guilty of possession if you didn't know the drugs were there. In some cases, the drugs belong to someone else or were placed in a shared space. We argue that you lacked control or awareness-known as constructive possession-and had no intent to commit a crime.

Federal vs. State Drug Charges in California

Drug charges can fall under state or federal Criminal Law, and the difference matters. Federal charges often involve large quantities, cross-border activity, or weapons. If you're caught with drugs like oxycodone or involved in money laundering tied to drug trafficking, federal prosecutors may take over.

Federal cases move through separate courts and carry harsher sentences. Crimes like Sex Offenses, Vehicular Manslaughter or weapons possession tied to drug use can also complicate your defense. At William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, we have the experience and team to handle both systems.

Our expertise encompasses the intricacies of both federal sentencing guidelines and California law. Our Los Angeles Office has achieved success in both federal and state courts by crafting strong defenses and keeping clients informed every step of the way.

Federal vs. State Drug Charges in California

                                                                                                                                                                                         

Factor	State Drug Charges	Federal Drug Charges
Jurisdiction	Handled by       California state courts       (e.g., Los Angeles County)	Handled by       federal courts       and U.S. attorneys
Common Triggers	Simple       possession       small-scale       sales       or local       transportation	Large drug quantities,       interstate trafficking       weapons, or       DEA involvement       Transporting through the airport
Penalties	Less severe-can include       probation       drug diversion       or local       jail time	Typically harsher-longer       prison sentences,       fines       and mandatory minimums
Drugs Involved	Marijuana, cocaine, meth,       Oxycodone       and more	Large quantities of       narcotics       fentanyl       or trafficking-related charges
Court System	Local courts such as       Van Nuys Courthouse	U.S. District Courts; separate       criminal justice system
Complicating Factors	Prior       criminal charges       Sex Offenses       Weapons       or       Vehicular Manslaughter       may apply	Weapons,       White-Collar Crimes       or organized activity often lead to federal prosecution
Defense Approach	State-specific defenses       Proposition 47       diversion programs	Requires knowledge of       federal guidelines       and aggressive legal action
Why It Matters	State cases may allow       rehabilitation       options	Federal cases demand a highly strategic defense and may limit sentencing flexibility
How We Help	We fight for       dismissal       reduction       or       drug program alternatives	Our firm has achieved       success       in both systems with custom defense strategies

Drug Diversion Programs and Alternative Sentencing

You may be able to avoid jail even after a drug arrest. California offers several programs focused on rehabilitation, not punishment. These include PC 1000, Proposition 36, and Los Angeles County Diversion Programs.

Eligible offenders-especially those with non-violent charges or first-time arrests-can get treatment instead of jail. Achieving successful completion safeguards your professional future and employment by ensuring a clean record.

At William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, we evaluate your case to see if these programs fit. Our team believes in second chances. We champion alternative sentencing solutions designed to keep you out of jail, regardless of whether your charge involves recreational or medical marijuana, oxycodone, or other controlled substances.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can drug charges be dismissed?

Drug charges can indeed be dismissed, particularly if there's evidence of constitutional rights violations during the arrest, illegally obtained evidence, or the prosecution's inability to establish essential elements of the alleged crime.

Is marijuana possession still illegal?

While recreational and medical marijuana are legal in California under Proposition 64, possession over the legal limit or use in restricted areas can still result in criminal charges or fines.

Will I go to jail for first-time possession?

Not always. Many first-time drug offenses qualify for diversion programs under California law, which can help you avoid County Jail and keep your criminal record clean if completed successfully.

Can a felony drug charge be reduced?

Yes. Under laws like Proposition 47, certain felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors, especially if they're considered "wobblers." A criminal defense lawyer can help negotiate the reduction.

What's the difference between possession and trafficking?

Possession is having a drug for personal use. Trafficking involves larger amounts, intent to sell, or transportation, and it usually carries much harsher penalties under both state and federal law.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor drug charge?

Yes. Even misdemeanor drug charges can impact your driver's license, job, or immigration status. A skilled criminal defense attorney can challenge the evidence and protect your legal rights.

Contact Our Los Angeles Drug Crime Lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation

If you're facing drug charges in Los Angeles County, don't wait. The sooner you contact William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law, the better your defense. Our law firm offers free consultations and is available 24/7 to take your call. We handle both state and federal drug charges and provide personalized, aggressive legal representation when your future is on the line.