Ventura Drug Sales & Distribution Lawyer
Aggressive Defense Against Drug Sales & Distribution Charges in California
If you have been charged with drug sales or distribution in California, you could be facing severe penalties, including felony charges, prison time, and hefty fines. Law enforcement takes these offenses seriously, and prosecutors often push for the harshest punishments.
Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today!
Facing drug sales or distribution charges? Get the legal defense you need. Call (877) 378-6147 now or contact us for a confidential consultation.
At the Law Offices of Adam L. Pearlman, we provide experienced legal defense for individuals accused of drug-related offenses. Our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges whenever possible.
What Constitutes Drug Sales & Distribution?
Drug sales and distribution refer to the transportation, sale, or intent to sell controlled substances. Prosecutors don’t need to prove an actual sale occurred—simply having a large quantity of drugs, packaging materials, or large amounts of cash can be used as evidence to charge you with intent to sell.
Examples of drugs commonly associated with sales and distribution charges include:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy/MDMA
- Marijuana (in illegal quantities)
- Prescription drugs (such as oxycodone or Xanax, without a prescription)
California Laws on Drug Sales & Distribution
Under California Health and Safety Code §11351, it is illegal to possess drugs with the intent to sell. The penalties depend on the type and quantity of the drug, but common consequences include:
- Felony charges
- Up to four years in state prison (or more for large quantities)
- Substantial fines
- Asset forfeiture (law enforcement may seize your money or property)
- Deportation for non-citizens
If you are accused of selling drugs near a school, playground, or other protected area, penalties may be even more severe.
How Prosecutors Prove Intent to Sell
Prosecutors often use circumstantial evidence to argue that you intended to sell drugs rather than keep them for personal use. Some of the factors that may be used against you include:
- Large quantities of drugs – More than a personal-use amount suggests intent to sell.
- Packaging materials – Small baggies, scales, or containers can indicate distribution.
- Large amounts of cash – Especially in small denominations.
- Frequent communication with buyers – Text messages, calls, or social media messages.
- Statements made to law enforcement – Anything you say can be used against you.
Our defense strategy focuses on challenging the prosecution's evidence and ensuring that your rights are protected.
Potential Defenses Against Drug Sales Charges
Being charged does not mean you will be convicted. A skilled Ventura drug sales attorney can explore legal defenses such as:
- Lack of intent to sell – If there is no clear evidence of sale intent, charges may be reduced.
- Unlawful search and seizure – If police conducted an illegal search, evidence may be suppressed.
- Entrapment – If law enforcement coerced or pressured you into selling drugs, this may be a defense.
- Mistaken identity – If the drugs were not in your possession or belonged to someone else.
- Violation of your rights – If your Miranda rights were not read, your case may be challenged.
Federal vs. State Drug Distribution Charges
While most drug sale charges fall under California state law, in some cases, federal authorities get involved—especially if large quantities of drugs, interstate trafficking, or organized crime are suspected. Federal drug convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences, making strong legal representation even more critical.
If your case involves federal charges, our firm is prepared to provide aggressive defense and work to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Drug Sales or Distribution
If you are facing drug sales or distribution charges, it is critical to act fast and avoid making mistakes that could hurt your case. Follow these steps:
- Remain silent – Do not answer police questions without an attorney present.
- Do not consent to searches – If officers search your home, car, or phone, they must have a warrant.
- Avoid discussing your case – Do not talk about your charges with anyone except your lawyer.
- Contact a lawyer immediately – The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances.
FAQ: Drug Sales & Distribution Charges in California
What is the difference between drug possession and drug sales?
- Drug possession means having drugs for personal use, while drug sales involve selling or intending to sell drugs. The penalties for sales are much harsher.
Can I be charged with drug sales even if I wasn’t caught selling?
- Yes. Prosecutors can use circumstantial evidence—such as drug quantity, packaging materials, or cash—to argue that you intended to sell.
Is marijuana distribution still illegal in California?
- Although recreational marijuana is legal in certain amounts, selling without a license or possessing large quantities is still a criminal offense.
What should I do if I was caught with a large amount of drugs?
- Call a lawyer immediately. A Ventura drug sales attorney can assess whether the police violated your rights and explore legal defenses.
Can I get a drug sales charge reduced to possession?
- Possibly. With the right legal strategy, an attorney may negotiate a plea deal to reduce the charge from sales to possession, which carries lighter penalties.
What are the penalties for selling drugs near a school?
- Selling drugs near a school, park, or public area where children are present can result in enhanced penalties, including additional prison time.
How can a lawyer help with a drug sales charge?
- A skilled lawyer can challenge evidence, argue constitutional violations, negotiate reduced charges, or even get your case dismissed if errors were made during the investigation.
Contact a Ventura Drug Sales & Distribution Lawyer Today
Drug sales and distribution charges can have life-altering consequences, but a strong defense strategy can make all the difference. At the Law Offices of Adam L. Pearlman, we fight aggressively for our clients to challenge the prosecution’s case and seek the best possible outcome.
Experienced Drug Crimes Defense – Contact Us Now!
Don’t face serious drug charges alone. Our skilled legal team is ready to help. Call (877) 378-6147 or contact us to discuss your case today.
