Frequently Asked Questions

Drug Crime Defense in Orange County, California

What is a drug crime?

A drug crime is a criminal offense that involves a controlled substance. The government regulates certain substances that are considered to be dangerous or to have a high potential for abuse. Under state and federal law, it is a crime to possess, use, distribute, traffic, manufacture and cultivate controlled substances, including both illegal narcotics as well as prescription drugs.

What are the types of drug crime cases your firm handles?

The experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Fred Thiagarajah handle all types of drug crime cases throughout Orange County, including: prescription fraud, drug possession, possession for sale, drug distribution, drug cultivation, drug manufacturing, drug trafficking, drug importation, DUI of drugs, and cases involving medical marijuana. We handle drug cases in state, federal and juvenile court.

Why do I need an attorney?

When you are facing criminal charges of any kind, including those related to drugs, you will need a professional to protect your rights. At this time, you are in danger of facing criminal charges and the possibility of serious penalties if you are convicted. You will need an Orange County drug crime attorney to communicate your side of the story, ensure your Constitutional rights are not violated, and fight for a positive case result through negotiation or litigation.

What are some penalties that I may face for a drug crime conviction in Orange County?

The specific penalties for a drug crime conviction will vary greatly depending on the particular case. A defendant may be at risk of facing imprisonment in county jail or state prison, fines, probation, court-ordered rehabilitation or treatment, and/or community service. The severity of these penalties will most often depend on the nature of the offense (for example, whether it is simple possession or drug trafficking) as well as the type of drug and the amount involved.

Will I qualify for alternative sentencing to avoid jail time?

Under California's Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act, a defendant facing first or second-time non-violent drug charges may qualify for alternative sentencing in order to avoid imprisonment. If you are interested in seeing whether you may qualify, it is important to discuss your unique case with an experienced lawyer.

Contact an Orange County drug crime lawyer at the Law Offices of Fred Thiagarajah today.