Question 1

What should I do if I'm arrested on a drug or gun charge?

Accepted Answer

Stay calm, be polite, and do not resist. Invoke your right to remain silent clearly and firmly by saying 'I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want an attorney.' Then stop talking. Anything you say to police before speaking with an attorney can be used against you, and many cases are damaged by what a client said in the hours after arrest.

Question 2

What is the difference between simple possession and possession with intent to sell?

Accepted Answer

Simple possession is typically a misdemeanor for small amounts, while possession with intent to sell is a felony that carries far heavier consequences. Prosecutors often use factors like the quantity of drugs, how it was packaged, the presence of scales, large amounts of cash, or text messages to argue intent to sell even when the drug was for personal use. We challenge those inferences.

Question 3

Can a drug charge be reduced or dismissed?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, depending on the facts, your prior record, and the strength of the prosecution's evidence. Options may include challenging the legality of the search that produced the evidence, qualifying for a drug diversion program that results in dismissal upon completion, negotiating a reduction to a lesser charge, or taking the case to trial. We evaluate every path on day one.

Question 4

What is a drug diversion program and do I qualify?

Accepted Answer

California offers diversion programs, including those under Proposition 36 and Penal Code 1000, that allow first time offenders charged with simple possession to complete drug treatment instead of serving jail time. Successful completion results in dismissal of the charges. Eligibility depends on the specific charge and your prior record, and not every prosecutor's office applies these programs the same way.

Question 5

What happens if a gun was found in my car but it's not mine?

Accepted Answer

Prosecutors can charge constructive possession if they believe you knew the gun was there and had the ability to control it. This is a fact-intensive argument that we fight directly. The location of the gun, who had access to the vehicle, and whether your fingerprints were on it are all relevant. Shared access to a vehicle is one of the most common scenarios where we successfully challenge possession charges.

Question 6

Can a prior felony conviction affect a current gun charge?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A person with a felony conviction is prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under both California and federal law. If you are found with a firearm and have a prior felony, the charge is significantly more serious and the penalties are harsher. This is exactly why having experienced defense counsel from the very beginning matters.

Question 7

Will a drug conviction affect my immigration status?

Accepted Answer

Drug convictions can have severe immigration consequences including deportation, denial of citizenship, or bars on reentry into the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen, tell us immediately so we can factor immigration consequences into every decision we make about your case.

Question 8

How serious is a drug or gun conviction on my record long term?

Accepted Answer

Very serious. Beyond jail or prison time, a conviction can cost you professional licenses, housing opportunities, certain federal benefits, and your right to possess a firearm permanently in some cases. A felony conviction also counts as a strike under California's Three Strikes Law, which dramatically increases penalties for any future felonies.

Los Angeles Drug & Gun Charge Defense Attorney.

Penalties and consequences

Drug crimes we handle

Firearms charges we handle

Common Defenses & Tactics

Frequently Asked Questions

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