Beverly Hills Drug Crime Lawyer
Drug Distribution in California
Drug distribution is defined as the delivery or transportation of an illegal narcotic substance from one location to another. In order to be convicted of distribution, there are a few things that the prosecution must prove.
Control: the individual must have had control or ownerships over the illegal substance. A person cannot be convicted just for being in close proximity to the drugs.
Amount: there must be more than mere traces of the drug. The volume should be large enough for sale or consumption. The drug must also be in a form that is ready for consumption.
Intent: the packaging of the drug can signal its intended use. If the drugs are separated into different packets, then that might signal that the individual meant to distribute it.
Knowledge: the criminally charged person must have known of the drugs existence and purpose to be convicted.
If all of these can be adequately proved, then you could be convicted of drug distribution. In your sentencing, a judge might also consider any prior drug convictions and your targets. Those who were distributing to minors may be given more severe penalties.
To make sure that you have competent legal representation, talk to our Beverly Hills criminal defense lawyers at The Law Office of Peter Berlin. With over 15 years of experience, we have successfully handled many different types of drug cases. Our team of legal professionals was even able to reduce charges for a client that had sold drugs to a police officer!
Penalties for Drug Distribution
According to the California Health and Safety Code 11352, any person who is convicted of drug distribution may be charged with a felony punishable by three to five years in prison, fines of up to $10,000, and license suspension. If the crime involves a minor, then the prison sentence may be increased to nine years. Any distribution that occurs within 1,000 feet of a school or playground during their operational hours will be considered minor involvement.
Defense from Our Beverly Hills Criminal Defense Attorneys
When you come to us for assistance, we will thoroughly research the details of our case so that we can find evidence to defend the charges against you. If the police made an illegal search and seizure or violated your rights in another way, then we may be able to suppress the evidence in court! No matter the complexity of your case, our Beverly Hills drug crime lawyers are ready to support you through the entire process. Our main goal is to meet all your needs, so we are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Take advantage of your free case evaluation now!