San Bernardino Drug Trafficking & Distribution Defense Attorneys

Serving Clients in Apple Valley, Victorville, Redlands & San Bernardino County, CA

At Bullard & Powell, APC., our seasoned trial attorneys bring over three decades of combined legal experience to the table. We understand the gravity of facing drug trafficking and distribution charges under California law. Our firm's approach is aggressive and strategic, ensuring we handle your case with the utmost seriousness, professionalism, and dedication.

Facing drug trafficking charges in San Bernardino County? Contact us today at (909) 771-2304 for a free, confidential consultation. We're here to help defend your rights and future.

Drug Trafficking & Distribution in California

Under California law, drug trafficking and distribution refer to the illegal transportation, sale, or delivery of controlled substances. This can involve various types of drugs, including but not limited to, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and prescription drugs such as opioids.

The extent of the charge will depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved, the intention to sell or distribute, the area of distribution, and whether minors were targeted or involved. Our San Bernardino drug trafficking defense attorneys at Bullard & Powell, APC. are well-versed in the intricacies of these charges and are ready to guide you through your legal journey.

Penalties for Drug Trafficking & Distribution

Convictions for drug trafficking and distribution can lead to severe penalties in California. 

These may include:

• Felony charges, with jail terms ranging from 3 to 9 years for a first offense.
• Heavy fines, potentially in excess of $50,000.
• Asset forfeiture, including cash and property involved in the drug trade.
• Mandatory drug education or counseling programs.
• Probation, with stringent conditions and regular check-ins.

The specific penalties vary based on the details of the case, such as prior convictions, the amount and type of substance involved, and other relevant factors.

Federal vs. State Drug Trafficking Charges

When facing drug trafficking charges, it’s important to understand the differences between federal and state charges. While both systems penalize the illegal distribution of controlled substances, the penalties and legal processes can differ significantly.

• State Charges: State drug trafficking cases are prosecuted under California’s drug laws. These cases generally involve trafficking within state borders. Penalties may vary based on the drug type, quantity, and circumstances.
• Federal Charges: Federal drug trafficking charges are much more serious and often result in harsher penalties. These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office and usually involve large-scale trafficking across state lines or international borders. Federal law often results in longer prison sentences, larger fines, and mandatory minimum sentences.
• DEA Involvement: Federal drug trafficking cases often involve the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which has more resources and jurisdiction to pursue larger-scale investigations and arrests. The DEA’s involvement can make federal cases more complicated and difficult to defend against.

Defenses for Drug Trafficking Charges

If you are charged with drug trafficking, there are several defenses that may be used to challenge the prosecution's case. Apart from entrapment and insufficient evidence, other potential defenses include:

• Lack of Knowledge: If you didn’t know the drugs were in your possession or vehicle, you could argue that you weren’t aware of the trafficking activity.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Under the Fourth Amendment, law enforcement must have legal grounds to search your property. If the search was unlawful, any evidence found, including drugs, may be inadmissible.
• Failure to Prove Intent: For trafficking charges to stick, prosecutors must prove that you intended to distribute the drugs. If they cannot establish your intent to sell or distribute, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.

Understanding the Difference Between Drug Trafficking and Drug Manufacturing

Drug trafficking and drug manufacturing are both serious offenses, but they have distinct legal definitions:

• Drug Trafficking: This refers to the transportation, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs. If you’re involved in any part of the distribution chain, including selling, transporting, or delivering drugs, you may be charged with trafficking.
• Drug Manufacturing: This involves the production or creation of illegal drugs, such as growing marijuana or synthesizing methamphetamine. Manufacturing charges often carry more severe penalties because they involve the creation of drugs, not just their distribution.

The law treats trafficking and manufacturing differently, with manufacturing typically leading to harsher penalties due to the involvement of drug production. Understanding these differences is crucial when building a defense strategy.

How Bullard & Powell, APC. Can Help You

At Bullard & Powell, APC., we believe in the principle of "innocent until proven guilty." Our San Bernardino drug trafficking lawyers are adept at identifying and implementing robust defense strategies to protect our clients' interests, no matter the odds or obstacles we may face. 

Potential strategies against drug trafficking charges may include:

• Insufficient Evidence: We will scrutinize the prosecution's case for weaknesses, such as questionable evidence or unreliable witnesses.
• Violation of Rights: If law enforcement violated your rights during the arrest or investigation, we will work to have the evidence dismissed.
• Entrapment: If you were induced to commit a crime that you would not ordinarily commit, we could argue entrapment.
• Mistaken Identity or False Accusation: We will rigorously cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses and provide evidence to prove your innocence.

Ask a San Bernardino Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Facing drug trafficking and distribution charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. However, you don't have to navigate this legal maze alone. At Bullard & Powell, APC., we're committed to providing you with an aggressive, effective defense, rooted in our extensive experience and a deep understanding of California drug laws.

Don't wait - the sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building a strong defense on your behalf. Contact Bullard & Powell, APC. today for a free consultation. We're here to help you take the first step toward safeguarding your rights and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between drug trafficking and drug possession?

• Drug trafficking refers to the transportation, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs, while drug possession simply involves having drugs for personal use. Trafficking charges carry more severe penalties due to the intent to distribute, while possession may result in less severe punishment, especially for first-time offenders.

How can the prosecution prove drug trafficking charges?

• Prosecutors must demonstrate that the accused knowingly participated in the illegal sale, transport, or distribution of drugs. This often involves presenting evidence such as large quantities of drugs, distribution tools (scales, baggies, etc.), or witness testimony.

Can I face both state and federal charges for the same drug offense?

• Yes, in some cases, you can be charged with both state and federal drug offenses if the crime involves crossing state lines or involves federal jurisdiction. This can result in facing harsher penalties, as federal charges tend to carry more severe sentences.

What are some examples of common drug trafficking defenses?

• Possible defenses include lack of knowledge (not knowing about the drugs), mistaken identity, or illegal search and seizure. Your lawyer may challenge the evidence or argue that law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation.

How does Proposition 47 impact drug trafficking charges in California?

• Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reduced the penalties for some low-level drug offenses, making them misdemeanors instead of felonies. However, it generally does not apply to drug trafficking or distribution charges, which still carry significant penalties.

What happens if I’m arrested for drug trafficking with a firearm?

• Being arrested for drug trafficking with a firearm can lead to additional charges, such as possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony. This could result in mandatory sentencing enhancements and even longer prison terms.

Can a diversion program help if I'm facing drug trafficking charges?

• While diversion programs are generally available for lower-level drug possession charges, they are less likely to apply to drug trafficking or distribution cases. However, it’s still worth discussing with your lawyer to determine if there’s any way to reduce the severity of your case.

Need a skilled defense attorney for your drug trafficking case? Contact us now at (909) 771-2304 to discuss your legal options with our experienced team.