Nevada County Drug Crime Lawyer

Nevada County Drug Crime Attorney

For those facing drug-related offenses in Nevada County, California, the stakes are high. Drug crime penalties can include jail time, hefty fines, and mandatory drug treatment. You’ll also end up with a permanent criminal record. But the Nevada County drug crime lawyer of Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, can help. Our team provides robust defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances.

Nevada County Drug Crime Statistics

In 2023, California saw 19,654 drug charges across the state, which is 7.6% of the total crimes reported. Drug crime cases are often complex. No matter the drug charges against you, California prosecutors aggressively pursue drug-related offenses. Without an experienced legal advocate, you could face the full brunt of the legal system.

Punishments for drug possession in California depends on these factors: type of drug, amount of drug, intention to sell the drug, your criminal record, and details of your case. All play roles in how you will be charged.

When you hire a drug crime lawyer, you gain legal representation who challenges evidence, negotiates for reduced penalties, and protects your constitutional rights. With over a decade of criminal defense experience, Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, knows how local courts operate, what prosecutors prioritize, and how to navigate the legal process effectively.

Classification of Drug Crimes

California classifies drug offenses based on the type and amount of the drug, your criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Drug crime penalties vary widely.

Misdemeanor charges include possession of small amounts of marijuana, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of drug related paraphernalia.

Penalties for misdemeanor charges can include:

• Time at the county jail
• Fines
• Probation
• Mandatory drug treatment programs

Felony charges may result from possessing a controlled substance, even for personal use. Often, prosecutors try to prove the defendant intended to sell or distribute the controlled substance even though there is no direct evidence of a sale. Due to the impacts of drug use and sales on the community, drug charges are prosecuted very strongly in Nevada County.

Penalties for felony charges can include:

• Lengthier prison sentences
• Steep fines
• A felony criminal record that can impact future career, licensing, and housing plans
• Mandatory registration as a narcotics offender
• Parole or supervised release conditions

Aggravating factors can enhance penalties. These factors can include crimes that happened near a park or school, and if minors were involved. The use of firearms or if firearms were found with the drugs can also escalate sentencing. You’re also more likely to get a harsher penalty if you have an existing criminal record. The number of violent and drug offense convictions has increased over the years, making up 26.1% of offenses that led to incarceration.

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, Jennifer Granger has successfully represented clients in Nevada County, CA for Drug Crimes. Possible outcomes to a drug offense proceeding are time served in a county jail or state prison, forfeiture of property involved in the crime, payment of fines, and loss of a license.

Drug Transport

California defines transportation of narcotics as the unlawful transference of a controlled substance from one place to another by any means. How severe the penalty is, is contingent upon the circumstances of the case. But, the courts are not lenient on anyone convicted of drug transportation, because of other dangerous criminal activities often involved with it.

The drug type and amount transported, the location, and whether you are a repeat offender are important factors in your case.

Drug Sales

The sale of drugs in Nevada County, CA is a serious offense; one that can lead to a felony charge on your criminal record. Drug Sales includes transporting, importing, and sale or distribution of controlled substances. These charges, depending on the circumstances, can come with a variety of penalties.

Because of the detrimental effects that illegal drugs have on society, California courts are dedicated to punishing individuals charged with drug crimes.

Defending Drug Crimes Cases in Nevada County

Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, is known for her tenacity in the courtroom. Since every case is different, a different defense strategy is necessary for each charge and client. Some of the more common defense strategies include:

• Illegal search and seizure: If the police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence collected may be inadmissible.
• Lack of possession: Prosecutors need to prove that you knowingly possessed a substance. If you were unaware that the drugs were in your possession, the charges may be dropped. An example of this would be if you borrowed a friend’s car and didn’t know there were drugs hidden inside.
• Entrapment: If you were coerced into committing the offense by law enforcement, you may have a valid defense.
• The substance was not a controlled drug: Lab errors or cases of mistaken identity of the substance can be grounds for dismissal.
• Diversion programs: For nonviolent offenders, we fight for diversion programs that allow you to avoid jail time and get help.

The team at Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, thoroughly investigates all evidence, files appropriate motions, and pursues every available avenue to protect your freedoms.

Why Choose Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law?

Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, is a dedicated advocate for drug crime offenders in Nevada County. With a strong track record of handling complex drug crime cases and decades of experience, our team combines legal skills with a personalized approach to each case. We emphasize clear communication, honest advice, and a strategy tailored to your life.

Our team is familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures through the Nevada County Superior Court at 201 Church Street in Nevada City. If you’re looking to hire a drug crime lawyer in Nevada County who will fight for your rights and future, Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, can be the advocate you need for success.

FAQs About Nevada County, CA Drug Crime Laws

Q: How Much Does a Drug Crime Lawyer Charge?

A: The amount it costs to hire a drug crime lawyer varies based on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the location. High-profile and multi-defendant cases can come with higher costs. Some attorneys charge a flat fee, while others charge hourly. During your initial consultation, you can ask your attorney about fee schedules and payment plans.

Q: How do you win a Drug Possession Case?

A: Winning a drug possession case typically involves challenging the prosecution’s evidence and protecting the defendant’s constitutional rights. Common defense strategies include arguing unlawful search and seizure, lack of knowledge or intent, or mistaken identity. If law enforcement did not follow proper protocol, the case could be dismissed. Having a skilled defense attorney on your side can give you a better chance of having a successful outcome in your case.

Q: Is Possession of a Drug a Felony in California?

A: In California, simple possession of most controlled substances is typically charged as a misdemeanor for first-time, nonviolent offenders. Possession may be charged as a felony under certain circumstances, however. This can include instances of possession of certain substances, such as heroin or cocaine. The arrest happening near a school or while you’re in possession of a weapon could also escalate charges.

Q: How to Beat a Drug Paraphernalia Case?

A: To beat a drug paraphernalia case, a defense attorney can challenge the legality of the search and seizure. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, the evidence may be excluded. Another defense is demonstrating that the item in question has a lawful purpose and was not intended for drug use. If ownership or possession cannot be clearly established, the case may be dismissed.

Contact Our Experienced Nevada County Drug Crime Lawyer

If you’re facing drug-related charges in Nevada County, don’t wait to seek help. Early intervention is essential for building a strong case, and having a Nevada County drug crime attorney can make all the difference in your success.

Contact Jennifer Granger, Attorney at Law, today to schedule a confidential consultation. Your rights and freedom are on the line, and we’re ready to advocate for you.