Facing a possession of controlled substances charge in San Mateo County, California can threaten your future and lead to serious legal penalties. With 50+ trials defended and over 30 years of combined trial experience, Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys understands the high stakes of your case.
Our San Mateo County possession of controlled substances lawyers are ready to challenge the prosecution’s claims and fight for the best possible outcome. Call (650) 299-0500 or contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
How Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help You With Your Possession of Controlled Substances Case in San Mateo County, CA
At Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know how devastating a possession of controlled substances charge in San Mateo County can be. California’s drug laws are extraordinarily complex, but our legal team knows how to fight back against aggressive prosecution.
Our San Mateo County criminal defense lawyers have over 30 years of combined experience defending our clients’ rights. We are ready to take on your case and work for the best possible outcome.
If you have been charged with drug possession, our San Mateo County criminal defense lawyers will:
- Argue a lack of knowledge
- Defend against intent to sell charges
- Dispute constructive possession claims
- Challenge unlawful searches and seizures
- Take your case to trial, if necessary
A possession charge does not automatically mean a conviction. With a strategic defense, we may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a San Mateo County possession of controlled substances lawyer.
When Possession of a Controlled Substance Becomes a Criminal Offense in San Mateo County
If you are caught with a controlled substance, law enforcement will look at what type of drug it is, how much you have, and whether there is evidence that you intended to sell it. Simple possession is typically treated as a misdemeanor, but if officers believe you planned to distribute the drug, you could face felony charges.
Knowing how California classifies controlled substances and what separates personal use from intent to sell is critical when fighting a possession charge.
How California Classifies Controlled Substances
California divides controlled substances into five Schedules based on their medical use and potential for abuse. Schedule I drugs, such as heroin and LSD, have no accepted medical value and carry the harshest penalties. Schedule V substances, which include certain prescription medications, have the lowest potential for abuse and the least severe consequences.
Simple Possession vs. Possession With Intent to Sell
Simple possession means you had a controlled substance for personal use, which is often charged as a misdemeanor. Possession with intent to sell, however, can lead to felony charges if prosecutors argue that you planned to distribute the drug. Law enforcement may claim you intended to sell if you had large quantities, packaging materials, or other items linked to drug sales.
Penalties for Possession of a Controlled Substance in San Mateo County
The penalties you face depend on the type of drug, your criminal record, and whether there were aggravating factors. A misdemeanor possession charge could mean fines, probation, or a short jail sentence. Felony possession, especially with intent to sell, can result in years behind bars.
Legal statutes that may apply to your possession case include:
- California Health & Safety Code § 11350 – Makes it illegal to possess specific controlled substances without a valid prescription.
- California Health & Safety Code § 11351 – Criminalizes possession with intent to sell, which is always charged as a felony.
If this is your first offense, you may qualify for a drug diversion program that focuses on treatment instead of jail time. However, possession with intent to sell does not qualify for these programs and carries much harsher penalties, including significant fines and potential prison time.
Your San Mateo County possession of controlled substances attorney with Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, can help you understand what is at stake and how to fight back.
Defenses Against Controlled Substance Possession Charges in San Mateo County
A possession charge does not mean a conviction is inevitable. There are several defense strategies that can challenge the validity of the charges against you. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your defense may focus on unlawful searches, lack of evidence, or proving that the drugs did not belong to you.
Challenging Illegal Searches and Seizures
Law enforcement must follow strict procedures when conducting searches, and any violation of your rights could lead to evidence being thrown out. If officers searched your vehicle, home, or belongings without a valid warrant or probable cause, the prosecution may not be able to use that evidence against you.
Proving Lack of Knowledge or Possession
To convict you of possession, prosecutors must prove that you knowingly had control over the substance. If you did not know the drugs were present or they were found in a shared space, such as a car or apartment, you may have grounds to challenge the charges. A strong defense can argue that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Questioning the Accuracy of Lab Testing
Prosecutors must provide laboratory results that confirm the substance in question is a controlled drug under California law. Not all substances seized by law enforcement are illegal, and mistakes in testing can lead to wrongful charges. If there were errors in the testing process, chain of custody issues, or contamination of the substance, the results may be unreliable and inadmissible in court.
Work With a Possession of Controlled Substances Lawyer in San Mateo County
A possession charge does not have to define your future, but acting quickly is essential to building a strong defense. Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help you.
Our San Mateo County possession of controlled substances attorneys will evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and explore all legal options to protect your rights. Learn more about your defense options today by submitting a request through our contact form.