Downey Criminal Defense Lawyers
DOWNEY DRUG CHARGES ATTORNEYS
Downey Criminal Attorneys Arzili & Associates specialize in all cases involving drugs. They have handled hundreds of drug related offenses in the Downey Court with outstanding results.
Drug Cases primarily fall into three categories:
- Drug Possession for Personal Use;
- Under the Influence of a Drug,
- Possession of Drugs for Sale, Transportation & Manufacturing of Drugs.
The first two categories are customarily misdemeanors that carry a maximum of a year in county jail and probation. A charge of “Under the influence” carries a minimum of 90 days in the county jail, if you are not eligible for a drug treatment.
The type of drugs also makes a difference in punishment and treatment by the courts. Marijuana is customarily seen as a less serious drug than heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine. For example, possession of less than an ounce of marijuana carries a fine, while the same amount of cocaine could be charged as a felony.
The biggest distinction between drug cases is whether they are for PERSONAL USE or for SALE OR DISTRIBUTION.
Some of the factors that Judges and Prosecutors use to gauge whether drugs found are for personal use or for sale are:
- Quantity of drugs found;
- Packaging of Drugs; Many packages or one package;
- Empty Packaging Materials;
- Scales or measuring devices
- Large amounts of Cash in small denominations;
- Presence or Absence of personal use paraphernalia
- Pay/Owe Sheets;
- Pagers or Cell Phones
If you are looking to hire a top Downey Defense Attorney for your drug case, focus on three things:
- An Attorney that can challenge the search/seizure of the drugs. This is done through a formal motion to dismiss due to a search that is in violation of your 4th amendment rights. With that said, you need an attorney that knows this area like the back of their hand and can spot legal issues and attack them with a suppression motion. Arzili & Associates have handled hundreds of drug cases and are able to analyze the police’s actions thoroughly and find any discrepancies.
- An Attorney that knows all the drug classes and programs that you may be eligible for and can keep you out of jail. From outpatient classes to proposition 36 and Drug Court, we have handled tons of Drug Cases where clients have been spared jail time and given a chance at rehabilitation.
- An Attorney that knows your court. An old saying goes like this; A good lawyer knows the law, but a great lawyer knows the Judge. Today, knowing your Judges and prosecutors is just as important as knowing the law. Having the trust and respect of the decision makers in your court can make the difference between jail and freedom for you.
If you are facing drug charges in Downey Court, call the local experts at 562-907-4448.