California might be known for its progressive laws, but drug offenses are still treated seriously by police and prosecutors. Even a small mistake or misunderstanding can lead to criminal charges that affect your entire life.
Whether you were arrested with a small amount of drugs or accused of something more serious, your future could be on the line.
At Silver Law Firm, our San Jose criminal defense lawyers approach every drug case with care, urgency, and a strong commitment to results. We understand that people facing these charges often need support, not punishment.
That’s why a San Jose drug crime lawyer from our team will take the time to understand your side of the story and fight for the best possible outcome.
Common Drug Charges a San Jose Drug Crime Lawyer Can Combat
California law covers a wide range of drug crimes, and each one carries different risks and penalties. Your charge will depend on factors like the type of drug, how much was involved, and whether there was evidence of sales or trafficking.
Below are some examples of offenses our drug crime lawyers in San Jose regularly handle:
- Personal Possession: Having a small amount of drugs for personal use may be charged as an infraction or a misdemeanor.
- Possession for Sale: Larger amounts of drugs or other signs of intent to sell can lead to felony charges.
- Transportation of Drugs: Moving drugs from one place to another, even within city or county lines, can bring more serious charges.
- Distribution and Sales: Any involvement in selling or distributing drugs is treated as a felony.
- Manufacturing: Making illegal drugs without a license, including substances like methamphetamine, can lead to prison time.
- Prescription Drug Offenses: Selling or possessing prescription medications without authorization is illegal and often charged as a felony.
- Drug Paraphernalia: Having items like pipes, syringes, or other tools associated with drug use may result in misdemeanor charges.
- Illegal Marijuana Activity: Although cannabis is legal in California, there are strict rules about how it can be grown, sold, or used. Violating these laws can still lead to charges.
For a free legal consultation with a drug crime lawyer serving San Jose, call (510) 995-0000
Drug Classifications in California
The penalties for a drug crime often depend on how the substance is classified under California’s controlled substances laws. These classifications are based on how addictive a drug is, whether it has accepted medical uses, and how dangerous it is considered to be.
Here is a general outline of the schedules used by the state:
- Schedule I: These are considered the most dangerous drugs and have no recognized medical use. Examples include heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and peyote. Marijuana is still listed under Schedule I, but penalties for marijuana offenses have been reduced under California law.
- Schedule II: These substances are also highly addictive but may be prescribed for medical purposes. Examples include cocaine, methamphetamine, morphine, Adderall, and certain painkillers.
- Schedule III: These drugs have accepted medical uses and a lower risk of abuse. They include steroids, ketamine, and medications with limited amounts of codeine.
- Schedule IV: These drugs are commonly prescribed but still carry some risk of misuse. Examples include Valium, Ambien, and Xanax.
- Schedule V: These are the least restricted controlled substances and include some cough medications, antidiarrheal drugs, and mild painkillers.
San Jose Drug Crime Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
Consequences of a Drug Crime Conviction
Even with recent reforms in California that take a more health-centered approach to drug use, many drug offenses still carry harsh penalties. Depending on the type of charge, a conviction could bring:
- A permanent criminal record that follows you for years
- Jail or prison time, especially for felony convictions
- Heavy court fines, probation fees, and other costs
- Trouble finding or keeping a job, especially in licensed professions
- Difficulty renting housing or passing background checks
- Loss or denial of professional licenses
- Challenges in child custody or visitation matters
- Possible immigration issues, including deportation or denial of citizenship
- Registration as a narcotics offender in some felony cases
These consequences are not limited to the courtroom. They can affect your everyday life in major ways. That is why it is so important to have a skilled drug crime attorney on your side.
Reach out to our team of drug crime attorneys in San Jose today to learn more about how we can build a strong case against your charges.
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How Silver Law Firm Builds Your Defense
Many drug cases are not as clear-cut as they may seem. Officers often rely on tips from unreliable informants or conduct searches that cross legal boundaries. Evidence may be mishandled, or your rights may have been violated during an arrest. Any of these problems can create openings for a strong legal defense.
At Silver Law Firm, our San Jose drug crime lawyers will carefully examine every part of your case. We look at how the drugs were found, how they were tested, and how the prosecution is building its case. If your rights were violated or the evidence is flawed, we will fight to get it thrown out. This can lead to reduced charges, dropped cases, or better plea offers.
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Get Legal Help From a San Jose Drug Crime Attorney
Fighting a drug charge in California can be overwhelming, especially when you are facing aggressive prosecutors or complicated legal rules. Trying to handle your case alone could lead to costly mistakes. Fortunately, a San Jose drug crime lawyer can help you.
The attorneys at Silver Law Firm have more than 37 years of combined experience helping people charged with drug crimes. Whether you are dealing with a minor possession case or facing serious felony accusations, we are here to fight for you from start to finish.
We will explain your options clearly, guide you through the legal system, and work to protect your future.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
