Drug Crimes Lawyer in Riverside, California

The “war on drugs” has been raging for decades, both in California and across the nation. Police are constantly on watch for suspected offenders, especially people who may be engaged in drug trafficking, possession for sale, transportation, and manufacturing activities. In many cases, charges are brought mistakenly against people who are not actually involved in the drug industry. If you or a loved one has been accused of a drug crime, it is important that you talk to a criminal defense lawyer about your right to defend yourself against any pending charges. San Bernardino and Riverside County drug crime attorney Gregory H. Comings has been defending people against these charges for more than 21 years.

As an experienced criminal attorney, Gregory H. Comings understands drug laws, the inner workings of the legal system, and the steps that need to be taken to protect the legal rights of someone who may be facing months, years, or even decades of incarceration if they are convicted on drug charges under California law. Attorney Comings can advise clients about the likelihood of a conviction based upon the evidence against them, and he vigorously works alongside defendants to pursue a favorable outcome to their case.

The Severity of Drug-Related Charges in Riverside

In Riverside and throughout California, drug-related charges are governed under the California Uniform Controlled Substances Act and carry severe penalties. If you’re accused of crimes like possession for sales, trafficking, or manufacturing, you face potentially life-altering consequences, including:

• Substantial fines,
• Probation, and
• Lengthy prison sentences.

California enforces strict drug laws, requiring a skilled Riverside drug crimes attorney to defend your rights.

Types of Drug Crimes

In Riverside, drug offenses are categorized based on factors like substance type, quantity, and intended use. Understanding the nature of these charges is essential in building a defense and mitigating penalties.

Possession Charges

Drug possession charges in California can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the quantity and type of substance. A small amount of mushrooms may be charged as a misdemeanor, while possession with intent to sell is typically a felony, carrying harsher penalties. A conviction can mean mandatory counseling, significant fines, and even jail time—impacting employment, housing, and personal reputation.

Trafficking and Distribution

Drug trafficking and distribution offenses are among the most serious drug-related crimes because they involve the movement and sale of controlled substances such as cocaine. Trafficking convictions often lead to long prison terms, heavy fines, and lasting damage to personal and professional reputations.

An experienced drug crimes lawyer can investigate the circumstances to ensure that law enforcement followed the proper legal procedures when they investigated and arrested you. If your attorney finds violations of your rights, they will work to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Manufacturing Controlled Substances

Manufacturing controlled substances, such as methamphetamine or other illegal drugs, is a high-stakes felony in California. Manufacturing-related charges bring severe consequences, often including multi-year prison sentences, steep fines, and parole restrictions.

If you’re facing these charges, a skilled drug crime attorney can examine every aspect of the case, from law enforcement procedures to potential defenses, such as lack of intent or improper evidence collection.

A person who has been accused of a crime has certain legal rights. Some of these rights – such as the right to counsel and the right to a trial by jury – stem directly from the U.S. Constitution. Other rights exist as a result of the federal courts’ interpretation of certain portions of the Constitution. For example, the Fifth Amendment states that no person shall be compelled “to be a witness against himself” in a criminal proceeding, and an important decision by the U.S. Supreme Court interpreted that right to require that police inform a criminal suspect that they have the “right to remain silent.”

This is one of the Miranda rights that people must be informed of before they are taken into custody and interrogated.

How a Knowledgeable Riverside Drug Crimes Attorney Makes a Difference

Drug charges demand a comprehensive, strategic defense. Hiring an experienced defense attorney who knows California drug laws and the Riverside court system can be pivotal to protecting your future. Gregory H. Comings has over 21 years of experience helping clients by challenging evidence, negotiating favorable plea deals, and advocating for alternative sentencing.

Protecting Your Constitutional Rights

Drug-related arrests often involve complex legal issues, such as search and seizure laws, potential entrapment, and evidence chain-of-custody requirements. A knowledgeable drug crimes attorney ensures your constitutional rights remain intact. For instance, if law enforcement unlawfully searches your property, the evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. 

Gregory H. Comings, as a dedicated drug crime lawyer, can help Riverside County and San Bernardino residents assert all of their rights under the Constitution as well as state and federal laws. For example, he will work hard to convince the court that evidence obtained in violation of a defendant’s state, federal, or constitutional rights should be excluded if their case goes to trial. He can carefully review the details surrounding your arrest to see if the authorities may have engaged in illegal tactics, such as entrapment, the use of a bogus informant, or a misstatement on their report. Unless the State of California can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were in possession of an illegal substance in a sufficient quantity to be convicted of the offense with which you were charged, it may be possible for your case to be dismissed or pleaded down to a lesser charge, depending on the evidence.

Alternative Options: Drug Courts and Rehabilitation Programs

Some individuals facing drug charges qualify for alternative sentencing through Riverside’s drug courts or rehabilitation programs. These programs focus on treating addiction instead of imposing jail time, offering options like counseling, regular drug testing, and community service. Drug court participation may lead to a reduced sentence or dismissal upon successful completion for many first-time offenders. Attorney Comings can guide you through these alternatives, working to secure a path that prioritizes rehabilitation over incarceration.

Why You Need a Riverside Drug Crimes Lawyer on Your Side

Drug charges bring overwhelming stress, often with long-term effects on your career, family, and freedom. With a knowledgeable Riverside drug crimes lawyer, you can develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation, whether challenging the evidence, negotiating a plea, or pursuing the best possible outcome in court. Attorney Comings is dedicated to defending your rights and safeguarding your future. 

Seek Representation from a Drug Crime Attorney in Riverside County or San Bernardino

If you have been charged with a drug crime, you need to talk to a Riverside drug crimes attorney sooner rather than later. To consult skillful San Bernardino and Riverside County drug crime lawyer Gregory H. Comings about your case, call or contact us online and ask for an appointment. Our office has Spanish interpretive services available. We also represent people who need  help fighting charges of sex crimes,  domestic violence, and other violent crimes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If I Am Arrested for a Drug-Related Crime?

Stay calm, avoid making any statements without an attorney present, and exercise your right to remain silent. Immediately contacting a defense attorney for a drug offense ensures early defense preparation.

Can Drug Charges Be Dropped or Reduced?

Depending on the evidence and the specifics of your case, a criminal defense lawyer can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate for reduced charges, or work toward charge dismissal based on case details.

What Is a Drug Diversion Program?

A drug diversion program offers rehabilitation-focused sentencing through treatment and counseling instead of jail time. Successful completion may lead to dismissed charges, helping individuals avoid long-term penalties.

Will a Drug Conviction Affect My Employment?

A drug conviction can impact employment opportunities, especially in jobs requiring background checks. Skilled legal representation can help reduce conviction risks or minimize their impact on your record.

Are Drug Charges Always Felonies?

Drug charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on substance type, amount, and intent. Understanding these distinctions helps you and your attorney tailor an effective defense.

Resources:

• SUBSTANCE USE SERVICES. Riverside County Department of Mental Health, link