4 Main Types of Drug Charges under California Law:

1. DRUG POSSESSION
   For most controlled substances, possession for personal use is a felony. Misdemeanor charges include marijuana (cannabis) possession, being under the influence of a drug, and possession of drug-related items called paraphernalia (pipes, bongs, etc.). To be convicted, the prosecution must prove that you knew about and controlled the drug in question. Even if you didn’t have drugs on you when you were arrested, you can be convicted if drugs were found in your car, house, or purse.
   
2. DRUG POSSESSION FOR SALE
   It is a felony to possess or buy illegal drugs that you intend to sell. The prosecution doesn’t have to prove that you sold them—just that you intended to sell them. Money need not change hands to be convicted of drug possession for sale.
   Intent to sell can be proven by evidence such as drug packaging (small bundles), weighing scales, cutting agents, people coming to/going from your home at all hours, fortified windows, conversations with police informants, undercover officers, or wiretapped telephone (cell, portable or landline) conversations.
   
3. DRUG TRAFFICKING
   California drug traffic laws prohibit the transporting, importing and selling/distribution of controlled substances. Transporting, importing, or selling drugs is a felony, unless you’re arrested with less than 28.5 grams of marijuana (cannabis) and the marijuana is for your own personal use then it is a misdemeanor. You can also be charged and convicted of trafficking if you aided, abetted, and conspired with anyone to sell or purchase illegal drugs.
   
4. MANUFACTURING DRUGS
   In California, it is a felony to: • Plant, cultivate (grow, care for) or harvest marijuana • Manufacture illegal drugs (such as methamphetamine or rock cocaine) or possess the chemicals necessary to manufacture illegal drugs.

Stephen G. Rodriguez is an experienced Los Angeles Drug Attorney. If you are undergoing Drug charges in Los Angeles, and need a criminal defense attorney, call Stephen G. Rodriguez at (213) 223-2173.