Drug Crime Lawyers in Temecula

In California, drug charges are taken seriously. Whether you were arrested for possession, distribution, manufacturing, trafficking, or prescription fraud, our team is here to help. A drug conviction may land you behind bars or result in steep fines.

The lawyers at Camarata & Fuller, LLP have more than 40 years of combined experience. We have handled thousands of cases and are proud of our results and reputation. See how we have helped many others handle their criminal charges by reading our testimonials.

How Are Drug Charges Handled in California?

Drug convictions can carry harsh penalties. For the chance to minimize your punishment or eradicate charges altogether, seek representation from our team of skilled legal professionals.

In 2014, Proposition 47 changed the sentencing for a variety of drug crimes in California. Now, several former felony possession charges are prosecuted as misdemeanors with a maximum sentence of one year in county jail.

Drugs crimes are penalized according to the schedule each drug is categorized under. For example, cocaine falls into Schedule I, whereas many opiates fall into Schedule II.

Treatment over Punishment

If you are struggling with drug addiction, you need help, not punishment. Thankfully, the California courts recognize this necessity and offer drug diversion programs for some defendants. As your advocate, we can suggest a program that could help to treat your addictions and set you on track toward a brighter future. The Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs has been actively encouraging drug diversion programs in the California courts since 1998.

Some courts operate under a pre-plea model, which means that the defendant can avoid prosecution by successfully completing a drug rehabilitation program. In a post-plea model, the defendant has to enter a guilty plea before completing his or her treatment. Sometimes, the conviction will be wiped from the defendant’s criminal record if the program is completed successfully. In post-adjudication cases, the defendant can begin a drug program after conviction, but he or she may still have to serve a sentence.

What About Marijuana?

In 2016, Proposition 64 legalized recreational marijuana use for adults over the age of 21. However, this law did come with provisions. Adults are only permitted to possess up to 28.5 grams of marijuana or eight grams of concentrated marijuana. New laws state that this drug must be consumed in a private residence or an establishment that is licensed for marijuana use. Anyone under the age of 21 is prohibited from possessing or using the substance. Marijuana users are not permitted to smoke weed in public places, near daycares or schools, or anywhere that tobacco is prohibited. Operating a vehicle under the influence of marijuana can result in a DUI.