Many people assume that since recreational marijuana is legal in Santa Clara County, California, the state goes easy on people arrested for drug crimes. However, that assumption can be costly if you are facing a drug conviction. California aggressively prosecutes drug crimes. Therefore, hiring an experienced drug crimes defense attorney to handle your case is in your best interest.
For two decades, Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys have fought for the rights of the accused in northern California. Our criminal defense lawyers have over 30 years of combined experience handling criminal matters. They have won over 3,000 cases and over 50 trials.
Contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at (408) 217-8818 to schedule a free consultation with our Santa Clara County drug crimes lawyers.
How Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help You With a Drug Charge in Santa Clara County, CA
A conviction for a drug crime in Santa Clara County can have significant negative consequences on numerous aspects of your life. In addition to criminal penalties, you may face collateral consequences, including unemployment, losing child custody, and losing a professional license.
When you hire our top-rated Santa Clara County criminal defense lawyers, we handle all aspects of your drug charges, including:
- Completing a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to your drug arrest to gather evidence to sue in your defense
- Analyzing police reports and evidence in your case for inconsistencies, weaknesses, and exculpatory evidence
- Hiring leading expert witnesses when necessary to provide additional evidence to support your defense
- Explaining California drug laws and how they apply in your case
- Discussing the potential outcomes of a plea deal and a trial
- Negotiating a fair plea agreement if it is the best way to protect you
- Aggressively arguing your case at trial if your case goes to court
Our legal team includes a California State Bar Certified Specialist in criminal law. Our attorneys are highly rated by numerous organizations, including Avvo and Super Lawyers. They have been recognized as Top 40 Under 40, Rising Stars, Best Criminal Defense Attorneys by Expertise.com, and Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
Contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Santa Clara County drug crimes lawyer.
Overview of Drug Crimes in Santa Clara County, CA
The possession of controlled substances is prohibited by California law. However, the possession of prohibited drugs is not the only drug crime.
There are numerous drug crimes related to controlled substances, including:
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Prescription fraud
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Transporting a controlled substance
- Drug trafficking
Prosecutors often “pile on” as many charges as they can relate to a single instance. The purpose is to scare you with the possibility of multiple convictions, especially for serious crimes. If you fear the multiple charges, you are more likely to plead guilty to a charge or two in exchange for the prosecution dropping the other charges.
Criminal Penalties for Santa Clara County Drug Crimes
Drug crimes are wobbler offenses. Your charges are either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the charge and the circumstances of your case. Aggravating factors could increase a misdemeanor drug charge to a felony drug charge. Your criminal history, the type of drugs involved, and the amount of the drugs involved also determine the exact charges.
The penalties for drug crimes vary, so it is best to speak directly with a drug crimes lawyer about your case. However, the general penalties for a misdemeanor drug crime include:
- A maximum of one year in county jail
- Maximum fine of $1,000
- Probation
- Community service
- Mandatory drug treatment
Convictions for felony drug crimes could increase the fine up to $500,000 and add a prison sentence of nine years. However, those penalties could increase with enhancements for selling drugs:
- Near a school
- To a person with a felony record
- To someone receiving drug treatment or mental health treatment
- To someone who is pregnant
- Near a homeless shelter
Some defendants may be eligible to enter a drug diversion program where drug charges are dismissed upon completion of the program.
Collateral Consequences for a Drug Crimes Conviction in Santa Clara County, CA
In addition to probation, incarceration, and fines, drug crime convictions may also result in:
- Losing your gun rights
- Being fired from your job
- Problems with immigration status
- Having your driver’s license suspended
- Restricted child visitation
- Having trouble finding a place to rent or lease
- Being denied government aid
- Losing your right to vote
- Losing a professional license
Many of these consequences could create financial hardship, making matters worse. Before you plead guilty to drug charges, contact us to discuss your case with an attorney. There could be one or more defenses to drug crimes that could result in a dismissal or acquittal.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Santa Clara County Drug Crimes Attorney
If you or a family member are charged with a drug crime, contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys for help. Our Santa Clara County drug crimes lawyers fight to protect your rights. We have decades of experience that help our clients avoid convictions, jail time, fines, and other consequences of a drug crime conviction. Contact us today.