Drug possession is a criminal offense that occurs when a person has one or more drugs (illegal narcotics) in his/her possession for use, distribution, or sale. 

Drug Possession – Criminal Charges

When a person is arrested for drug possession, he/she may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony drug offense.  The severity and classification of the drug offense will depend upon:

• the type of drug possessed
• the amount of drug possessed
• if the person intended to sell the drug in his/her possession
• the person’s criminal background
• if the person has had prior drug crime convictions

The factors mentioned above could also lead to sentencing enhancements if the person is convicted.  For example, a person that is arrested for possessing a small amount of marijuana would likely receive a lighter sentence than a person who is arrested for possessing a distributable amount of heroin.  Or, a person who possessed a drug for personal use would typically receive a less severe sentence than a person who possessed a drug with intent to sell.  

People who are convicted of drug possession in California may have to:  spend time in jail or prison, do community service, be placed on probation, attend drug and alcohol treatment programs, or pay fines.  

Los Angeles & San Fernando Valley Drug Possession Defense Law Firm

Have you been charged with drug possession in Los Angeles or in the San Fernando Valley?  If you answered “yes”, you may be wondering what you should do next.  The best thing you can do is to speak with an experienced drug crimes defense attorney who can help you understand both your legal options and your individual rights, like the attorneys at the Hedding Law Firm. 

At the Hedding Law Firm, we understand that many times people are improperly charged with drug crimes, like drug possession, due to illegitimate traffic stops or law enforcement misconduct.  Our law firm is staffed with aggressive defense attorneys who can help you contest your criminal charges by building a persuasive case that could potentially increase your chances of winning both in and of court.