Defending Clients Against Drug Accusations
If you've been charged with a drug crime, or if you have a family member or friend facing drug charges, you need to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands how the criminal justice system works when it comes to drug cases.
I'm San Diego attorney Jim Pokorny, and I have been defending people against drug charges and other criminal charges for more than 30 years. I work hard to keep my clients out of jail through a vigorous criminal defense. Contact me for a free phone consultation.
Understanding Illegal and Prescription Drug Laws
If you've been charged with any crime involving illegal drugs — including simple possession, possession with intent to distribute, possession for sale, manufacturing, distribution, importation or conspiracy — you face some potentially serious consequences. I regularly defend clients against charges involving drugs such as the following:
- Methamphetamine
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Hashish
- LSD
While the basic legal procedures and criteria for conviction are the same regardless of the drug involved, the sentencing guidelines are often very different for different drugs.
Another increasingly common type of drug charge is prescription fraud or unauthorized possession of prescription drugs. These allegations typically involve highly addictive drugs such as OxyContin and Vicodin.
Highly Experienced in State and Federal Court
Depending on the exact nature of the accusation, a drug charge may be brought in either state court or federal court. I am experienced at defending clients in the state courts in San Diego County and the federal courts in the Southern District of California.
The possible consequences of a drug charge depend on your specific situation. Federal drug charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences that give judges very little discretion. For some minor state charges, alternatives to jail such as diversion programs and work furlough are available for some people at various stages in the criminal justice process.
I also understand that many people are concerned about how drug charges will affect their driver's licenses, professional licenses and criminal records. I regularly address these issues both during the case, and after a case. As part of my practice, I help clients expunge their records when the option is available.
If you've been charged with a drug crime in California state or federal court, don't hesitate to contact me.
