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Bakersfield Drug Possession Lawyer

Facing Drug Possession Charges in Kern County?

A drug possession charge can flip your life upside down, but it doesn’t have to define your future. Whether it’s a small amount of marijuana or more serious allegations involving meth, heroin, cocaine, or prescription drugs like Oxycodone or Xanax, these charges don’t just threaten your freedom—they can impact your career, relationships, and reputation. 

At Humphrey & Thompson, we don’t just see a case; we see a person with a story worth defending. Our team knows the ins and outs of Bakersfield’s courts and uses that knowledge to challenge weak evidence, expose procedural errors, and fight aggressively for your rights. With years of experience and a tailored approach for every client, we can help you take control of what feels like an uncontrollable situation. 

Don’t wait—your future is worth protecting. Call Humphrey & Thompson today at (661) 760-7678 for a consultation with a seasoned Bakersfield drug possession attorney.

Understanding Drug Possession Laws in California

Drug Classifications Under State & Federal Law

California’s drug laws align with the federal Controlled Substances Act and categorize substances into five schedules. These schedules determine the potential penalties for possession based on the drug type’s accepted medical use and abuse risk.

The schedules break down like this:

  • Schedule I Drugs (e.g., heroin, LSD, MDMA): These are classified as having no accepted medical use and carry the highest penalties for possession.
  • Schedule II Drugs (e.g., methamphetamine, cocaine): While these have approved medical applications, their misuse is treated seriously, often resulting in heavy penalties.
  • Schedules III–V include prescription medications, such as steroids or painkillers, where penalties can differ depending on the specific circumstances.

Typical Penalties for Drug Possession

Penalties vary significantly based on whether the offense includes marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, or controlled prescription drugs. 

While marijuana possession may lead to relatively lenient consequences, like fines, substances like methamphetamine can lead to long prison sentences, especially when aggravating factors such as possession near schools are involved.

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criminal law specialists

Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
    “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.
    “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!

    - Former Client
    “In a society where justice is fading, Kyle Humphrey truly is the light in the dark.”

    He values his clients and understands their individual needs. He will work hard to guarantee that justice is served for everyone involved. He is honest and supportive throughout the entire process. We will never forget what Kyle has done for us.

    - Felicia E.
    “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.
    “I truly believe Kyle Humphrey made all the difference in the outcome of this case and my son's record is clean.”

    My son was wrongfully accused and charged with assault. I hired Mr. Humphrey to represent him because I heard he was the best and as my son is 19 years old, I did not want this bogus charge going on his record. Mr. Humphrey did an excellent job of representing my son from day one. I am happy to say that the charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. I HIGHLY recommend Kyle J. Humphrey.

    - Tina H.
    “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.
    “Mr. Thompson is the most honest and hardworking lawyer I have ever come across.”

    He was straight forward, informative, and very easy to work with from inception to completion. I strongly suggest reaching out to Mr Thompson should you need the services offered by his office!

    - Rob B.
  • 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

Why Choose Humphrey & Thompson for Drug Possession Defense in Kern County?

With over 30 years of dedicated criminal defense experience, Humphrey & Thompson has successfully handled innumerable challenging drug possession cases. Our attorneys played pivotal roles during the “War on Drugs” era, gaining decades of practical knowledge that still informs our defense tactics today. Having managed over tens of thousands of cases with a success rate exceeding 90%, we are equipped to provide the defense strategies needed to contest serious accusations.

Strategies we employ include, but are not limited to:

  • Scrutinizing the evidence presented by the prosecution.
  • Investigating law enforcement procedures for rights violations.
  • Proactively defending clients’ constitutional protections.

If you’re facing drug possession charges, it’s time to defend your rights effectively. Call (661) 760-7678 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Bakersfield drug possession lawyer.

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