Distribution

Bakersfield Drug Distribution Defense Attorney

Protect Your Rights Against Drug Distribution Charges in Kern County

Drug distribution allegations are among the most challenging cases in California’s legal system. These offenses bring harsh penalties that may jeopardize your professional future, personal freedom, and financial stability. Prosecutors pursue aggressive strategies to secure convictions for offenses such as distributing, trafficking, manufacturing, or transporting illegal substances. You could face years of prison time, crippling fines, probation conditions, and long-lasting repercussions like losing professional credentials or custody rights of your children.

Acting swiftly to protect yourself is vital.

At Humphrey & Thompson, we defend individuals facing drug accusations with a strong, results-driven approach. Drawing on a wealth of courtroom experience, including significant time served as prosecutors, we approach each case with an informed perspective. Our legal team prioritizes challenging prosecutorial weaknesses, scrutinizing unlawful searches, and highlighting evidentiary gaps to defend your rights. With a history of success, we are steadfast in tackling even the most challenging cases.

Contact Humphrey & Thompson at (661) 760-7678 today to arrange a consultation with a Bakersfield drug distribution defense attorney.

California Drug Distribution Laws Explained

Under California law, drug distribution refers to the act of transporting, delivering, selling, or possessing with the intent to sell controlled substances. These charges are significantly more severe than possession cases, as they imply the intent to supply others with illegal substances. Evidence such as packaging materials, scales, large drug quantities, or communication records pointing to sales can all support accusations of intent to distribute. Understanding this legal distinction is critical in building an effective defense.

Distribution differs from related offenses like possession, manufacturing, and trafficking by focusing on the act of supplying illegal substances. For example, possession usually pertains to drugs intended for personal use, while manufacturing involves producing controlled substances. Trafficking, often associated with multi-state or international operations, carries harsher penalties under federal jurisdiction. These distinctions matter because each charge requires unique penalties and requires specific defense strategies.

The level at which your case is prosecuted impacts what penalties you could face. Drug distribution may proceed as either a state or federal case, depending on the circumstances. State charges bring consequences like extended prison terms, hefty fines, and probation. Federal charges, however, often involve more severe sentencing due to mandatory minimum sentences, with penalties increasing based on drug types and amounts involved.

Successfully navigating these laws requires precise legal preparation to confront the challenges presented by prosecutors.

Defense Strategies for Drug Distribution Charges

Successful defense strategies depend on the specific circumstances surrounding each case.

Common tactics range from proving a lack of intent, where a defendant argues they were unaware of the drugs’ presence or purpose, to citing violations of constitutional rights, like illegal searches. Arguments related to entrapment or insufficient evidence, such as doubts about the prosecution’s ability to substantiate intent or involvement, are also frequently used.

Our attorneys meticulously analyze case details to uncover weaknesses in the evidence and prosecution’s narrative. This may involve challenging the credibility of the arresting officers or witnesses, uncovering procedural errors, or disputing the chain of custody for evidence. By exposing these faults, we can argue for reduced charges, lighter sentencing, or even case dismissal. Strategic planning and execution in court are key to achieving favorable outcomes.

Penalties for Drug Distribution Convictions

California’s drug distribution laws impose significant penalties based on factors such as the amount and type of drugs involved and the specifics of each case.

For smaller amounts of controlled substances, penalties could include two to four years of imprisonment and fines reaching $20,000. However, distributing dangerous substances like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine could lead to much harsher sentences. Aggravating factors, like involving minors or working near schools, often lead to enhanced punishments.

Federal drug distribution charges are even more consequential, with mandatory minimum sentences starting at five years or more. These cases include large-scale trafficking and steep financial penalties alongside extended jail time. Additional factors, such as prior convictions, play a role in determining punishment. Due to the scope and severity of these cases, the ability to anticipate and counter legal challenges is vital.

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Meet Our EXPERTS

“I appreciate his efforts in sealing the case, keeping it off public record.”
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!

- Aracele S.
“Mr. Thompson and his team worked relentlessly to get my husband's case dismissed.”
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.

- Jenna B.
“Kyle is very professional but at the same time feels like your talking to a long time friend.”
Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.

- Saijel P.
“Do yourself a huge favor and hire this man!!!”
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!

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Mr Humphrey and his staff we nothing short of amazing to me and my family.

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“Humphrey and Thompson are exceptional in criminal defense cases.”
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)

- Cesar M.
“Kyle took the time to listen to me and my wife about our situation and provide valuable feedback.”
I had an amazing experience with Kyle! He is a straight shooter and that was crucial for me to hear. I was able to keep all my rights, get my case dismissed and that was huge for me! Kyle was able to take a bad situation for our family and deliver results that allowed us to move forward and grow. I highly recommend Kyle and his team!

- KC A.
“Kyle is knowledgeable and an awesome attorney.”
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.

- Joe S.

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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration

Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial.
Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Felony Sex Crime

Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail.
Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse

Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial.
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case

Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely.
Case Dismissal
Rape

Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial.
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery

Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed.
Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors

Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense

Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register

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How a Kern County Drug Distribution Defense Attorney Can Support Your Defense

Defending drug distribution charges requires comprehensive knowledge of the legal system and a tactical approach. Partnering with Humphrey & Thompson connects you to a team that has managed over tens of thousands of cases and achieved a remarkable 90% track record of success in criminal defense. We rigorously address issues like unlawful evidence collection, flawed investigative methods, or prosecutorial errors. Beyond courtroom advocacy, we engage in negotiations to explore alternatives, including reduced charges, plea bargains, or diversion programs suited to your case.

With backgrounds as prosecutors, we understand the strategies employed to convict defendants and leverage that insight to build your defense. Over three decades of dedication to criminal law has earned us a reputation for achieving results in complex and high-stakes cases. Our firm takes on challenging cases other attorneys avoid, offering you a relentless advocate committed to your defense. With translating services available and 24/7 access to our team, you benefit from personalized, comprehensive, and accessible legal representation.

Contact the Bakersfield drug distribution defense lawyers online or call (661) 760-7678 for aggressive legal advocacy today.

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