State and Federal Drug Trafficking Charges in California
Both the state and federal court systems use drug trafficking charges here in California. The Federal court steps in to handle criminal charges if the crime:
- Crosses state lines
- Involves certain amounts of money
- Is against the Federal government
The state court system will handle all other charges involving drug trafficking here in California. Both court systems had done serious penalties for individuals convicted of this drug crime. However, the Federal system has a reputation for dealing with drug trafficking more harshly.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Drug Trafficking and Illicit Drugs in Los Angeles
Drug trafficking involves moving and selling illicit drugs. The government “controls” illicit substances. There are several different categories of “controlled” substances throughout the country.
Individuals face drug trafficking charges for the misuse of:
Schedule I Drugs
Schedule I drugs are considered very addictive. These chemicals do not have medical uses. The government asserts that these chemicals are not safe to use even if supervised by a professional.
Schedule II Drugs
Schedule II drugs are also addictive. However, they have medicinal uses. Using them, even medically, can end up leading to dependence on the drug.
Schedule III Drugs
These drugs are not as addictive as Schedule I and Schedule II drugs. They have accepted uses in the medical community and are not as likely to lead to drug dependence.
Schedule IV and V Drugs
The least addictive drugs are considered Schedule IV and V drugs. They are unlikely to lead to dependence when used property. Their potential for abuse is very low.
However, misuse of these drugs can still lead to criminal charges.
Outcomes of a Drug Trafficking Conviction in California
It’s important to review the outcomes of a drug trafficking conviction here in California. State charges usually lead to fines and time in prison. Federal charges are often more severe than the charges used in state court.
Additionally, the Federal court system does not treat all drug trafficking convictions the same way. Individuals can face up to life in prison for crimes involving:
- One kilogram of heroin
- Five kilograms of cocaine
- 1,000 kilograms of marijuana
The Federal court system uses up to 40 years in prison for individuals convicted of crimes involving:
- 100 grams of heroin OR
- 500 grams of cocaine
And, finally, relatively minor penalties are used for individuals accused of crimes involving 50 kilograms of marijuana. This charge could lead to up to five years of time in the Federal prison system.
Defenses for Drug Trafficking Charges in Los Angeles
Drug trafficking convictions can have major impacts on your life here in Los Angeles. However, you do not have to face these charges alone. You can get legal help on your side right away by reaching out to a drug crimes lawyer in Los Angeles.
A lawyer can help you handle either state or federal charges. Your lawyer can work to:
- Help you during police questioning
- Block evidence against you
- Get your charges dismissed
- Have your charges reduced
- Assist during your bail hearing
Our team focuses on your unique needs after you are accused of drug trafficking here in Los Angeles. We can provide you with straightforward legal support and access to our experience handling drug crime charges. Allow us to begin working on a defense to help you avoid fines and incarceration.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Contact Us to Find Out More About Drug Trafficking
Want to learn more about drug trafficking in Los Angeles? Reach out to the Simmrin Law Group right now to get legal answers. Our drug trafficking lawyers in Los Angeles are prepared to help you right now.
We focus on handling state and federal charges. Find out more with a free consultation from our team. Reach us by completing our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.
p.rs-related-link-block{background:#f1f1f1;padding:10px 20px;border-radius:5px}
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form