Possession for Sale Lawyer in Los Angeles
Possession for sale charges carry serious criminal and life-altering consequences. our Los Angeles attorney provides strategic, experienced representation to protect your rights.
Possession for sale charges are far more serious than simple drug possession and can carry life-altering consequences. These cases often involve aggressive law enforcement tactics, complex evidence, and severe penalties.
At the same time, drug distribution allegations raise serious public safety concerns that demand firm legal action.
Definition of Possession for Sale Under California Law
Possession for sale is primarily governed by California Health and Safety Code Sections 11351, 11351.5, and related statutes, depending on the substance involved. A person may be charged when prosecutors allege that controlled substances were possessed with the intent to sell, rather than for personal use.
Intent to sell is not based solely on the amount of drugs found. Law enforcement often relies on surrounding circumstances such as packaging, cash, digital communications, scales, or prior allegations to support the charge. Importantly, no actual sale needs to occur for charges to be filed.
Because intent is subjective and often inferred, these cases frequently hinge on how evidence is interpreted rather than on direct proof.
Penalties for Possession for Sale in Los Angeles
Possession for sale is typically charged as a felony in California. Convictions may result in significant state prison sentences, large fines, formal probation, and a permanent criminal record. Certain substances, prior convictions, or alleged sales near schools or protected areas can substantially increase penalties.
A conviction can also lead to collateral consequences, including loss of professional licenses, employment barriers, housing issues, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Defenses to Possession with intent to Sale Charges
Being charged does not mean the prosecution can prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. One of the most common defenses is showing that the drugs were possessed for personal use, not for sale. In many cases, the amount alone does not justify an intent to sell allegation.
Other defenses may involve:
- challenging illegal searches and seizures
- questioning the credibility of confidential informants
- disputing ownership or control of the substances
- exposing flaws in forensic testing and chain of custody.
From an enforcement perspective, effective prosecution focuses on establishing intent, lawful evidence collection, and a clear connection between the defendant and alleged sales activity.
Why Choose Us
Possession for sale cases require a sophisticated legal strategy and a deep understanding of California drug laws. Our attorney is experienced in handling complex narcotics cases involving search warrants, digital evidence, and expert testimony.
We are known for thorough preparation, strategic negotiation, and strong courtroom advocacy.
Contact California Criminal Defense Center
If you are under investigation or have been charged with possession for sale, early legal representation can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact our possession for sale lawyers today for a confidential consultation. We are ready to review your case, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the legal process.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between possession and possession for sale?
Simple possession involves drugs for personal use, while possession for sale alleges intent to distribute, which carries significantly harsher penalties.
Can I be charged without evidence of an actual sale?
Yes. Prosecutors only need to prove intent to sell, which is often inferred from circumstances rather than a completed transaction.
Can possession for sale charges be reduced?
In some cases, charges may be reduced to simple possession or dismissed, depending on the evidence, legality of the search, and case-specific factors.