Drug Charges Lawyer in Compton, CA. There's no such thing as a "good" drug charge to be accused of in Compton, CA. You could be accused of possessing them, selling them, or making them. These statutes regulate substances from methamphetamine to fentanyl. But they all share one thing in common: Major legal consequences.
Don't let these accusations derail your life. You need Compton, CA's premier criminal defense law firm on your case. You need the Law Offices of David S. Chesley.
Our local Compton drug charges lawyers will be by your side from day one. We will research the statute in detail, discuss defense tactics, and represent you all the way through trial. To begin fighting the charges, call our team at (800) 755-5174 or ask about a free case review online right away.
Compton, CA, Drug Charges Lawyer: Page Summary
Below, you can read about the importance of having a drug defense lawyer in Compton, CA, categories of drug crime allegations in Compton, the qualities your attorney should have, strategies we may use in your case, and more.
If you want to read about a specific topic, click on the appropriate link in the following menu to navigate to a specific topic and learn more:
- Top Reasons to Work With a Drug Crimes Defense Attorney in Compton, CA
- Popular Drug Types and Their Penalties
- Categories of Drug Charges in Compton, CA
- How Drugs Can Affect DUI Charges in Compton
- Top Drug Defense Attorney Qualities
- Strong Defense Strategies Our Attorneys Use in Drug Cases
- Avenues to Divert Your Drug Charges
- Impact of Drug Crime Convictions on Non-U.S. Citizens
- Drug Allegation FAQs
- Need a Drug Charges Lawyer in Compton, CA? Call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Today
- All the Drug Charges Our Team Will Fight Against
Get Help From a Compton, CA, Drug Charges Lawyer IMMEDIATELY
If you've been accused of a drug crime in Compton, CA, it's a big deal, no matter what. The same action can be interpreted by the state in multiple ways, meaning there's always a risk of years in prison.
The first reason you should work with a drug charges lawyer right away is to give you an understanding of the accusations. A simple possession case shouldn't be treated the same as a drug manufacturing case, and your defense attorney should have strategies to fight your particular charges.
The second reason to contact a local Compton, CA, drug charges lawyer first thing in your case is to stop yourself from making a mistake. After a police interview without proper legal representation, the charges could be elevated and the state's case strengthened. Your defense attorney can help you talk to police the right way, instead of incriminating yourself.
On top of that, your drug charges lawyer will leverage local court relationships to explore different defense avenues. Connecting with a lawyer early lets us build a defense before the prosecution has completed its case, and we can even move to dismiss charges if we can act before the state builds a compelling case.
Drug Types and Legal Context in Compton, CA:
When picking a Compton, CA, drug charges lawyer, you want someone who knows how the prosecution treats different drug types. In the following section, you can read about some of the substances against which we have practice defending related charges.
| Drug Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Prescription Drugs | While most prescription drugs are technically legal, it can be illegal to possess or use them without permission. |
| Ecstacy | A man-made psychoactive drug. This affects the brain's ability to process serotonin. |
| Cocaine | A highly addictive drug which can cause intense effects Its use can harm the brain, as well as several other organs. |
| Methamphetamine | A stimulant known to affect people's energy levels and emotional stability. |
| Opioids | A category of addictive painkillers. These include morphine, oxycodone, and heroin. |
| Heroin | An extremely dangerous drug made by processing morphine. Courts and prosecutors often treat heroin charges harshly. |
| Fentanyl | An extremely dangerous type of opioid — roughly 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, according to the DEA. |
Penalties vary significantly based on the type of drug, how much there was, prior record, and whether the charge is possession, possession-for-sale, or sale/transport. As a general framework:
- As long as you are only accused of simple possession, you can typically expect misdemeanor charges. These carry a maximum jail sentence of one year. However, keep in mind misdemeanor charges aren't a guarantee, and prosecutors treat some substances more harshly than others.
- Possession for sale, sale, transport, or manufacturing are are more serious charges. Most accusations are felonies, and the sentence can change based on the specific substance and quantity involved.
- Fentanyl carries additional exposure: Proposition 36 (2024) created a list of drugs, including fentanyl, which can trigger felony enhancement if possessed along with a loaded firearm.
- Most of the time, federal drug charges result in harsher, longer sentences.
There's no simple method to tell what kind of sentence you're facing based on your charges. Our drug defense attorneys can help — call our office for a free case evaluation and we'll walk you through what you're actually facing.
Marijuana in Compton, CA
Marijuana Description: Marijuana is a plant which is popularly smoked to get high. While the state used to have laws against its use, in 2016 the state passed Proposition 64, legalizing its recreational use.
Since local laws allow for limited use, marijuana (AKA cannabis) charges in Compton, CA, most often center around when and where it is used. For example, driving with an open package of marijuana is illegal, even if you are sober.
Marijuana Legal Overview:
- Legal in limited quantities for adults 21 and older
- Generally, it is legal to grow up to six marijuana plants for recreational purposes
- Federal law still makes marijuana usage illegal.
How Your Compton, CA, Drug Charges Lawyer Can Help: If you're up against marijuana-related charges, our attorneys are ready for your case. For example, we can show the legality of your ownership, show that you did not violate any regulations, and/or make the case that no laws were violated in the handling of the plant.
Different Types of Drug Charges in Compton, CA
The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is ready to defend you against drug charges in Compton, CA. Whatever charges you are facing, we're ready to defend your innocence. Read the sections below to learn more about the different categories of charges and how our criminal defense attorneys can help.
Drug Possession/Use Charges
Drug possession charges are some of the most basic in Compton, CA. All illegal chemicals can fall under this umbrella, and these charges can apply in any circumstance where you allegedly owned the illegal drugs, even if you didn't have them physically with you at the time.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance
- Hard Drug Possession
Your Compton, CA, drug charges lawyer can build defenses that cast doubt on whether or not the drugs were in your possession, and can be by your side every step of the way.
Relevant statutes: If you're accused of simple possession of a hard drug, you're liking facing charges for allegedly violating Health and Safety Code 11350, while possession of methamphetamine is instead covered by HS 11377. Both are typically charged as misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in county jail, for defendants without disqualifying prior convictions.
Drug Production/Transport/Distribution Charges
Accusations of drug production, transportation, and distribution take on the other side of a drug deal: The alleged seller.
- Manufacturing or Producing Controlled Substances
- Cultivation of Marijuana
- Maintaining a Place for Drug Sales/Use
- Drug Trafficking
- Transportation of a Controlled Substance
- Sale of Controlled Substance
- Drug Possession for Sale
These charges are almost always treated more harshly than possession/use charges. A drug crimes defense lawyer can help you negotiate a plea to a less serious offense.
Relevant statutes: HS 11351 covers standard drug dealing charges, formally known as "possession for sale." The exception is methamphetamine, which is covered by HS 11378. For these felony charges, each is punishable by two, three, or four years in state prison and fines up to $20,000. HS 11352 converse sale or transportaiont charges for most substances, while HS 11379 does the same for methamphetamine. These charges carry longer exposure — up to nine years if the transportation crosses non-contiguous counties. Unlike simple possession, these charges are generally not eligible for PC 1000 or Prop 36 treatment diversion unless your attorney can negotiate the charge down to simple possession.
Drug Charge Enhancements
California's drug charge enhancement laws can be very different from each other, but one thing connects them together: They don't qualify on their own. Before you can be charged with an enhancement, there has to be another criminal accusation.
It's even more important to hire an experienced Compton, CA, drug crimes lawyer to defend you in these cases, so that they can fight both the base charge and the enhancement.
Federal Drug Charges
A federal drug charge isn't a 'category' in the same way that the above types of charges are. What sets these apart is that the federal government is prosecuting you instead of the state government.
These can include anything from trafficking to running a drug ring, but to get the attention of the federal government, it typically will involve large quantities and/or crossing state lines. The penalties are often much harsher, such as a life sentence and substantial fines.
These are some of the most serious charges you can possibly face. And you need a a seasoned criminal defense lawyer with the resources to match the federal prosecutor. Our team of attorneys will learn your side of the story, research applicable laws, dissect the case against you, and do whatever we can to secure a positive result for you.
Compton, CA Drug Charges and DUIs
Drug cases often intersect with another type of case in Compton, CA: DUIs. Drug DUI defense cases cover a wide range of circumstances, including everything from driving while high on marijuana to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by prescribed medication. What's worse, you can be taken into custody if there is any amount of THC in your system while driving (as opposed to alcohol).
When up against drug DUI charges, you don't just need a drug charges lawyer. You also need an expert Compton, CA, DUI defense lawyer who will fight your case both in criminal court and at the DMV hearing. Contact a lawyer right away — for most DUI accusations, if you wait longer than ten days to request a hearing, you lose your chance.
Top Compton, CA, Drug Charges Lawyer Qualitites
If you're looking for a drug charges lawyer in Compton, CA, it can feel impossible trying to decide which one to represent you. With so much at stake, you don't want to make the wrong choice.
Here are the top factors you want to look for in your drug crimes defense attorney:
- Extensive Experience defending clients in your situation
- Knowledge of how the district attorney approaches these cases
- Existing Relationships with prosecutors and judges in your jurisdiction
- A Reputation of Delivering Positive Outcomes when fighting drug charges for clients
- Availability Anytime in case an emergency occurs and you need help
At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we embody each of these qualities. We have over five decades of combined courtroom experience, including former prosecutors. We offer legal services throughout California. And we have delivered many victories for Californians.
We will always be honest with you about the state of your case, and you can get a hold of us 24/7 if something new develops.
Possible Defense Tactics Against Drug Charges
Whatever law you're accused of breaking, you have your own unique story to tell. Everyone in the Compton, CA, criminal courts is there under different circumstances, and you should have a unique defense plan to protect you.
We'll listen to your story and craft a powerful defense to fit. Below are some strong strategies your drug charges lawyer will consider:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: By getting evidence thrown out, the case against you can be weakened.
- Lack of Intent: In some cases, you can't be convicted if you broke the law on accident. For example, if police found illegal drugs in your car, but they weren't yours, and you weren't aware of them, you didn't transport them, legally speaking.
- Not Your Drugs: If the substance in question was, in fact, illegal, but belonged to another person, you shouldn't face possession charges.
- Entrapment: In rare cases, if an undercover police officer coerced you into buying or using illicit drugs, you may be exempt from a conviction.
- Prescription: These defenses hinge on your medical status, and if a doctor prescribed you a given substance.
- Plea Negotiations: In some cases, where it's not reasonable for the alleged offender to have the charges dropped entirely, a positive outcome can still be achieved through a plea deal.
If someone's accused you of a drug crime in Compton, CA, reach out to one of our lawyers now.
Compton, CA, Drug Charge Diversion Options:
Compton has diversion and treatment options available — be sure to ask your Compton, CA, drug charges lawyer about whether or not they apply to your case. To qualify, defendants must meet legal guidelines. Below are two of the most relevant programs:
PC 1000 Drug Diversion
California PC 1000 Deferred Entry of Judgment is often a very helpful, positive outcome for individuals accused of simple possession. The program typically includes drug education classes, requirements to stay sober, and regular drug testing. If you go through the PC 1000 program and complete it without any issues, your original charges are dismissed, keeping a criminal conviction off of your record. This protects you from many of a conviction's collateral consequences.
Proposition 36 (2024)
Proposition 36, which took effect in December 2024, changed California's approach to repeat drug offenses. It's important to understand that this is a different, newer law than the Proposition 36 passed in 2000, and it approach drug offense diversion from a unique angle.
Under the modern version, To qualify, an individual must have at least two prior drug convictions on their record. If so, the new charge can be handled as a "treatment-mandated felony," rather than a misdemeanor as originally charged.
Rather than an automatic alternative to jail, this creates a choice: complete court-mandated treatment, and the case can be dismissed with the arrest sealed; if you don't take this option, you'll have to fight the felony charge, with a prison sentence of up to three years. The law also heightened potential drug crime sentences, depending on the quantity and type of substance, and updated firearm-related enhancement laws to include fentanyl on the list of relevant substances.
Your Compton, CA, drug charges lawyer is here to help you understand the charges, help you decide what route to take, and come up with a strategy that maximizes your chances of a positive outcome.
How a Drug Conviction in Compton, CA, Affects Immigration Status
For immigrants in Compton, CA, you're facing even more serious consequences than a U.S. citizen — fortunately, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is experienced in both criminal defense and immigration law.
The federal government can initiate removal proceedings for most drug convictions, with one narrow exception: a simple possession charge with 30 grams or less of marijuana (not for distribution). This can impact lawful permanent residents ("green card" holders) as well as visa holders, and it can be a factor independent of whether or not the conviction includes a jail sentence.
Some important things to keep in mind:
- Simple possession for personal use (for the majority of drugs) is generally a deportable offense, but is not automatically classified as an "aggravated felony" — this means that you'll have access to some important immigration relief options.
- Possession for sale, sale, or trafficking convictions are far more likely to be treated as aggravated felonies, which can trigger mandatory deportation with little to no opportunity for relief or future re-entry.
- How a charge is pleaded matters enormously. Under Padilla v. Kentucky, defense counsel is supposed to tell you about these immigration consequences before you make a plea. An attorney who understands both sides can negotiate a resolution — such as a plea to a non-drug offense, or a disposition that avoids specific "aggravated felony" language — that defends your legal status in the country, as well as your criminal record.
Because immigration consequences are triggered by conviction, not just sentence, it's important to avoid mistakes from the very start of your case. If you are an immigrant fighting a drug crime allegation, tell your attorney immediately — they should take immigration factors into account when working on your case.
Drug Charge Frequently Asked Questions
If I'm not found guilty, do drug charges appear on a background check?
An arrest can appear on some background checks even without a conviction. If your case is resolved through PC 1000 or a completed Prop 36 treatment program, you may be able to have the arrest sealed or the record cleared — an attorney can help you explore these options.
Do I have to talk to police if I'm caught with drugs?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions beyond identifying yourself, and ask for a lawyer right away — making a mistake early on can cause major consequences down the line.
Can I get my record sealed after a drug conviction in Compton, CA?
If you were given probation, you may be eligible for expungement under Penal Code 1203.4, though eligibility depends on the specific charge and your record. The conviction can still potentially be used as grounds for deportation, though, which is why non-citizens need immigration-aware counsel handling both the criminal case and any later cleanup.
What's the difference between PC 1000 and Proposition 36 diversion?
PC 1000 is available for qualifying first-time or low-level possession offenses and leads to dismissal after completing education and testing requirements. The 2024 version of Proposition 36 applies to repeat offenders facing a treatment-mandated felony and requires completing a court-supervised treatment program to avoid the felony consequences. Your eligibility is ultimately determined by the underlying charge and your existing record.
Does Compton, CA, prosecute drug possession charges as felonies?
Simple possession of most controlled substances for personal use is typically a misdemeanor for first-time offenders. Possession with intent to sell, manufacturing, or trafficking charges are generally felonies regardless of prior record.
Don't Gamble With Your Freedom: Talk to Our Compton, CA, Drug Charges Lawyers Today
This isn't a time to settle for "good enough." Your future matters, and it depends on working with the right defense attorney. Our team is ready to stand by your side.
The Compton, CA, drug charges lawyers at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley have experience defending against countless drug crime accusations. We have relationships in courts across California. We explore every avenue to find the right path forward for our clients.
We also aid with the following legal services in Compton, CA:
- Domestic Violence Lawyer
- Sex Crimes Lawyer
- Immigration Lawyer
- Theft Lawyer
- Violent Crimes Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyer
Talk to your Compton drug charges defense lawyer today at (800) 755-5174 or reach out online to schedule a confidential case evaluation.
Every Drug Charge Our Lawyers Defend Against:
- Bringing Drugs into a Jail or Prison
- Cocaine
- Cultivation of Marijuana
- Drug Crimes with Firearm Enhancements
- Drug Diversion Programs
- Drug-Free School Zone Violations
- Drug Possession for Sale
- Drug Trafficking
- Ecstasy
- Federal Drug Charges
- Fentanyl
- Fentanyl-Specific Enhancements
- Hard Drug Possession
- Heroin
- Illegal Search and Seizure Defense in Drug Cases
- Maintaining a Place for Drug Sales/Use (HS 11366)
- Manufacturing or Producing Controlled Substances
- Marijuana
- Marijuana Charges
- Methamphetamine
- Opioids
- PC 1000 Drug Diversion
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Prescription Drugs
- Proposition 36
- Sale of Controlled Substance
- Transportation of a Controlled Substance
- Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance (HS 11350)
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