Drug Trafficking Attorney in Torrance

Arrested for Drug Trafficking? Certified Legal Help Is Just a Call Away

If you're facing drug trafficking charges in Torrance, CA, you need a seasoned legal team that understands the complexities of the local legal system. At Law Offices of J. Patrick Carey, led by the accomplished Pat Carey, we bring significant experience and a strategic approach to your defense. 

Pat's background as a former Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney allows us to leverage insider knowledge to effectively challenge the prosecution's case.

Our commitment to defending your rights means we explore every possible legal avenue to weaken the charges against you. We understand that a drug charge doesn't equate to guilt, and our duty is to demonstrate the gaps and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s arguments. 

By utilizing state-of-the-art technology and keeping abreast of current legal developments, our firm ensures that your defense is as compelling as it is legally sound.

Trust a drug trafficking attorney in Torrance with elite credentials and insider prosecutorial knowledge. We’re Certified Criminal Law Specialists. Get your consultation today by calling (310) 695-1118 or reaching out online.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws in California

In California, "drug trafficking" is not defined by a single statute. Instead, it is a broad term that encompasses various offenses related to the illegal sale, transportation, importation, manufacturing, or distribution of controlled substances. These laws are primarily codified in the California Health and Safety Code (HSC). 

The severity of the charge and its penalties depend heavily on:

• The schedule/type of controlled substance
• The quantity (aggregate weight) of the substance
• The nature of the conduct
• Prior criminal history
• Aggravating factors such as sales to minors, sales near schools, or involving violence or weapons.

A drug trafficking attorney in Torrance must possess an in-depth understanding of these complex classifications, their interaction, and how they impact potential sentencing.

Key California Drug Trafficking Statutes:

• Possession for Sale of a Controlled Substance (HSC § 11351 and § 11378): This is one of the most common drug trafficking charges. It is illegal to possess (actual or constructive) a controlled substance with the specific intent to sell it. This applies to drugs like cocaine, heroin, opium, peyote, and certain prescription drugs (HSC 11351), or methamphetamine, ecstasy, and other non-narcotics (HSC 11378). The prosecution does not need to prove an actual sale occurred.
• Sale or Transportation of a Controlled Substance (HSC § 11352 and § 11379): This is another core drug trafficking statute. It prohibits transporting, importing, selling, furnishing, administering, or giving away certain controlled substances, or offering or attempting to do any of these acts.
• Drug Manufacturing (HSC § 11379.6): This felony prohibits manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, or preparing a controlled substance. This can involve operating a clandestine drug lab or cultivating large quantities of marijuana for sale.