Los Angeles Drug Crimes Defense: Experienced Attorneys for All Drug Charges at Rogers | Beltran LLP

Facing drug crimes charges in Los Angeles can lead to severe consequences, including jail or prison time, substantial fines, and a criminal record that impacts your employment, housing, and personal life. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, our experienced Los Angeles drug crimes defense attorneys regularly defend clients against all misdemeanor and felony drug-related offenses, including possession of a controlled substance, possession for sale, sale or transportation of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana for sale, manufacturing a controlled substance, and more. With our deep expertise in California’s Health and Safety Code, we fight aggressively to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Below, we explain common drug crimes, what the prosecution must prove, effective defenses, potential penalties, and why you need our skilled legal team to navigate these complex cases.

Common Drug Crimes in California

California’s Health and Safety Code imposes strict penalties for drug-related offenses, and Los Angeles prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively. At Rogers | Beltran LLP, we handle all drug-related charges, including but not limited to the following:

1. Possession of a Controlled Substance (HS § 11350)

Description: Unlawfully possessing a controlled substance (e.g., cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine) without a valid prescription.
Key Factors: A misdemeanor since Proposition 47 (2014), unless charged with aggravating factors; applies to personal use amounts.

2. Possession for Sale (HS § 11351)

Description: Possessing a controlled substance with intent to sell (e.g., large quantities, packaging, or scales).
Key Factors: A felony; intent to sell is a critical element.

3. Sale or Transportation of a Controlled Substance (HS § 11352)

Description: Selling, furnishing, or transporting a controlled substance, even without payment.
Key Factors: A felony; transportation across state lines or large quantities increase penalties.

4. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HS § 11364)

Description: Possessing items used to ingest, prepare, or store controlled substances (e.g., pipes, syringes).
Key Factors: A misdemeanor; often charged alongside possession.

5. Possession of Marijuana for Sale (HS § 11359)

Description: Possessing marijuana with intent to sell, despite recreational legalization (Proposition 64, 2016).
Key Factors: A misdemeanor for small amounts; can be a felony for large quantities or prior convictions.

6. Manufacturing a Controlled Substance (HS § 11379.6)

Description: Producing or processing controlled substances (e.g., operating a meth lab).
Key Factors: A felony; carries severe penalties due to public safety risks.

7. All Other Drug Crimes

Description: Our firm handles every drug-related offense, including possession of synthetic drugs (HS § 11375.5), prescription drug fraud (HS § 11368), and driving under the influence of drugs (VC § 23152(f)).
Key Factors: We tailor defenses to each charge, ensuring comprehensive representation.

What the District Attorney Must Prove in Drug Crimes Cases

To secure a conviction for drug crimes, the Los Angeles DA must prove specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Our attorneys at Rogers | Beltran LLP leverage these requirements to build robust defenses:

For Possession of a Controlled Substance (HS § 11350):

Possession: You knowingly possessed a controlled substance.
Knowledge: You knew of its presence and illegal nature.
No Prescription: You lacked a valid prescription (if applicable).

For Possession for Sale (HS § 11351):

Possession: You possessed a controlled substance.
Intent to Sell: You intended to sell the substance.
Knowledge: You knew of its presence and illegal nature.

For Sale or Transportation (HS § 11352):

Sale or Transport: You sold, furnished, or transported a controlled substance.
Knowledge: You knew of its presence and illegal nature.
Intent: You intended to sell or transport the substance.

For Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HS § 11364):

Possession: You possessed an item used for consuming or preparing a controlled substance.
Knowledge: You knew of its presence and purpose.

For Possession of Marijuana for Sale (HS § 11359):

Possession: You possessed marijuana.
Intent to Sell: You intended to sell it.
Knowledge: You knew of its presence and illegal nature.

For Manufacturing a Controlled Substance (HS § 11379.6):

Manufacturing: You engaged in producing or processing a controlled substance.
Knowledge: You knew of its illegal nature.
Intent: You intended to manufacture the substance.

The DA relies on evidence like police reports, lab tests, seized drugs, witness testimony, or surveillance footage. Our Los Angeles drug crimes attorneys at Rogers | Beltran LLP meticulously challenge this evidence to protect your rights.

Common Defenses to All Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

Our experienced attorneys at Rogers | Beltran LLP employ tailored defenses to fight all drug-related charges, including:

Illegal Search and Seizure:
- If police obtained evidence through an unlawful search, it may be suppressed.
- Example: Officers searched your vehicle without probable cause.
Lack of Knowledge:
- If you were unaware of the drugs or their illegal nature, you may not be guilty.
- Example: Drugs were in a borrowed bag without your knowledge.
No Intent to Sell:
- For possession for sale or transportation, if you possessed drugs for personal use, felony charges may be reduced.
- Example: Small quantities lacked packaging or scales indicating sales intent.
Valid Prescription:
- If you possessed a controlled substance with a valid prescription, charges may not apply.
- Example: You had a prescription for a medication found during a search.
False Allegations or Mistaken Identity:
- Charges may stem from misidentification or false claims.
- Example: A witness wrongly identified you as selling drugs.
Entrapment:
- If police coerced you into committing a drug crime, your actions may be excused.
- Example: An undercover officer pressured you into selling drugs.

Our Los Angeles drug crimes defense lawyers thoroughly investigate your case to identify the most effective defense strategy for any drug-related charge.

Potential Penalties for Drug Crimes in California

Penalties for drug crimes vary depending on whether they are misdemeanors or felonies and your criminal history. As of July 20, 2025, potential consequences include:

Misdemeanor Drug Crimes

Jail Time:
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (HS § 11350): Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HS § 11364): Up to 6 months in county jail.
- Possession of Marijuana for Sale (HS § 11359, small amounts): Up to 6 months in county jail.
Fines: Up to $1,000 (plus court fees).
Probation: Up to 3 years of informal probation, with conditions like drug treatment programs or community service.
Drug Diversion: Eligible for programs like Proposition 36 or PC § 1000, potentially dismissing charges upon completion.

Felony Drug Crimes

Prison Time:
- Possession for Sale (HS § 11351): 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison.
- Sale or Transportation (HS § 11352): 3, 4, or 5 years in state prison.
- Possession of Marijuana for Sale (HS § 11359, large amounts): 16 months, 2, or 3 years in state prison.
- Manufacturing a Controlled Substance (HS § 11379.6): 3, 5, or 7 years in state prison.
Fines: Up to $20,000 for manufacturing; up to $10,000 for others (plus fees).
Probation: Formal probation in some cases, with conditions like drug treatment or restitution.
Felony Record: Impacts employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Enhancements: Additional penalties for large quantities, sales near schools (HS § 11353.6), or prior drug convictions.

Additional Consequences

Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens may face deportation, especially for felony convictions.
Employment Challenges: A criminal record limits job opportunities, particularly in roles requiring background checks.
Professional License Impacts: Affects licenses for professions like healthcare or law.
Civil Lawsuits: Victims may sue for damages if drugs caused harm, increasing financial liability.

Why Choose Rogers | Beltran LLP for All Drug Crimes Defense?

At Rogers | Beltran LLP, we bring extensive experience defending clients against all misdemeanor and felony drug crimes in Los Angeles, including but not limited to:

Possession of a controlled substance (HS § 11350)
Possession for sale (HS § 11351)
Sale or transportation (HS § 11352)
Possession of drug paraphernalia (HS § 11364)
Possession of marijuana for sale (HS § 11359)
Manufacturing a controlled substance (HS § 11379.6)

Our attorneys have a proven track record of securing dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea deals across the spectrum of drug offenses. We understand the complexities of California’s drug laws and leverage our expertise to challenge evidence, assert defenses like illegal searches or lack of intent, and protect your future. Our personalized, aggressive representation ensures the best possible outcome for your case.

What Else Should You Know About Drug Crimes in Los Angeles?

Drug crimes in Los Angeles are prosecuted aggressively due to the city’s efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse. Here are key details to understand:

The Drug Crimes Defense Process in Los Angeles

Investigation: Police investigate using seized drugs, lab tests, undercover operations, witness testimony, or surveillance footage, often involving narcotics units.
Arrest and Booking: You may be arrested and held without bail for felonies or released on bail for misdemeanors.
Court Proceedings: Your case involves arraignment, pre-trial motions, and possibly a trial. Plea deals may reduce charges to lesser offenses or secure diversion programs.
Diversion Programs: For misdemeanor charges or simple possession, programs like Proposition 36 or PC § 1000 may dismiss charges upon completion of drug treatment.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Drug Crimes Attorney

Navigating drug crimes requires legal expertise due to complex laws and severe penalties. Our attorneys at Rogers | Beltran LLP can:

Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, such as faulty lab tests or illegal searches, to seek dismissal or reduction.
Negotiate for diversion programs or lesser charges to avoid jail time.
Represent you in court to protect your rights and future.
Mitigate impacts on your employment, professional licenses, or immigration status.

How to Protect Yourself After a Drug Charge

Do Not Discuss the Case: Avoid talking about the incident with anyone except your attorney, as statements can be used against you.
Document Evidence: Keep records of prescriptions, witnesses, or events supporting your defense (e.g., proof of lawful possession).
Hire an Attorney Immediately: Early intervention can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.
Comply with Court Orders: Follow bail conditions to avoid additional charges.

Los Angeles-Specific Considerations

Urban Context: Los Angeles’s high-crime areas (e.g., South LA, Downtown, Hollywood) and aggressive narcotics enforcement increase drug charge allegations, often during traffic stops or raids.
Local Courts: Cases are heard in courts like the Los Angeles Superior Court, Compton Courthouse, or Van Nuys Courthouse, each with unique procedures.
Police Enforcement: LAPD uses advanced tools like drug-sniffing dogs, forensic labs, and digital forensics, which can be challenged for errors or bias.

Contact Rogers | Beltran LLP for Expert Defense Against All Drug Crimes in Los Angeles

No matter the drug charge you face, Rogers | Beltran LLP is here to help. Our skilled Los Angeles drug crimes attorneys have the expertise to defend against all misdemeanor and felony drug offenses, from possession and sale to manufacturing and paraphernalia charges. Visit www.rogersbeltran.com to learn how we can protect your future.

Call us today at (213) 900-9004 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Let us fight for your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.