Monder Law Group - News
Legal & Social Consequences of Selling Drugs in California
Every year, illegal drugs ruin tens of thousands of lives in California and hundreds of thousands more across the US. In fact, according to the CDC, in September 2023 there were over one million overdose deaths in the US, more than 10,000 of which were in the Golden State.
However, those are overdose deaths alone. What about addiction-induced family violence, severe traumatic injuries caused by drug quarrels, innocent lives lost just because they accidentally stumbled upon a drug deal in progress?
The numbers are exorbitant – and they’re a daily reality, so it’s no wonder that state and federal governments aggressively pursue and trial those who distribute illegal drugs. But, what does that mean for those charged with drug-related crimes, aside from having to find the best drug sales lawyer in San Diego to provide strategic defense in the court of law?
What are the consequences of being a drug dealer?
Drug trafficking, commonly known as “dealing”, is a felony offense involving the illegal sale, distribution, or transportation of controlled substances. In California, it is governed by the Health and Safety Code (HSC), specifically HSC §11352, which outlines the following penalties for perpetrators:
- Prison time ranging from 3 to 9 years;
- Fines of up to $20,000;
- Felony probation in lieu or in addition to imprisonment;
- Asset forfeiture, including money and property obtained through or used in trafficking.
However, the abovementioned sentences apply only if there are no aggravating circumstances, such as:
- Presence of previous violent or drug-related offenses;
- Transporting large quantities of drugs (varies for each type of drug);
- Selling to or involving minors in sales;
- Distributing drugs to vulnerable individuals (e.g. recovering addicts, pregnant women, etc.)
- Dealing drugs near rehabilitation clinics or similar facilities.
If these and similar aggravating circumstances are present, the sentence can be subject to further enhancement including an additional 3-5 years in jail and fines of up to $20,000.
It should be noted that drug trafficking can be tried as a federal offense, depending on the type (Schedule) of a controlled substance, whether the volume of drugs exceeds a certain amount, and whether they were transported across national borders. Federal charges carry much more severe penalties than state ones, including up to life imprisonment and millions of dollars in fines.
In addition, a conviction for drug dealing can result in long-term consequences beyond the aforementioned state/federal penalties, including:
- Difficulties finding employment: Employers are often reluctant to hire individuals with criminal records, especially for positions of trust and responsibility.
- Difficulties finding housing: Similarly to employers, landlords and property managers are disinclined in leasing to applicants with criminal records.
- Civil rights restrictions: In some instances, drug trafficking convictions may result in a person being stripped of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or possess firearms.
- Professional licensing restrictions: Certain professions, such as healthcare, law, education, and finance, may impose restrictions or outright ban individuals with criminal records from obtaining licenses and certifications necessary for their careers, further stifling employment and advancement opportunities.
Considering how felony offenses stay on record for the rest of one’s life (unless expungement is granted, which is a rare occurrence), it is easy to conclude that being charged for drug dealing is a grave matter that must be approached with the utmost seriousness, preferably with the help of a specialized lawyer.
Where can I find a highly proficient drug sales lawyer near me in San Diego?
Monder Criminal Lawyer Group is a collection of proven specialists, dedicated to providing aggressive and unyielding legal representation to individuals charged with drug-related crimes. We are ready to stand firm by your side and advocate for your rights using all of our experience, expertise, and every other resource at our disposal.
Count on our team to meticulously examine every detail of your case and tailor an ideal strategy for your specific circumstances, giving you the best shot at a beneficial outcome of your case. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation at our Downtown San Diego offices and let us ensure your rights are protected all the way.
