Drug Crime Attorney in Contra Costa County

 3. Major Federal Drug Crimes

21 USC § 841(a)(1)   (Distribution/Manufacturing/Possession with intent to Distribute)

This has a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years and a possible five year mandatory minimum and maximum 40 years if certain weight standards are met. (21 USC 841(b)(1)(B)).  The ten year mandatory minimum and maximum life sentence is triggered by even larger quantities. (21 USC 841(b)(1)(A))

21 USC § 846 (Conspiracy/Attempt)

The conspiracy involves simply helping the larger drug conspiracy.  The help does not need to be large and the penalty is the same as for distribution.

21 USC § 843(b) (Use of a Communication Facility to Facilitate Drug Felony)

These are often called “phone counts” and they carry a four year maximum for each use of a telephone to arrange a drug transaction.  Plea bargains often end up with “phone counts” because they avoid the labyrinth of mandatory minimum penalties.

21 USC § 848 (Continuing Criminal Enterprise - “Drug Kingpin Statute”)

This is the granddaddy of drug crimes.  It carries a mandatory minimum 20 years year sentence and can have life imprisonment.   It is drug organization oriented but a drug organization need only have a leader and four other people.

     4. Licenses, Business Reputation & Divorce (How Small Crimes Can Have Large Impacts)

Our focus is on the higher stakes drug cases but sometimes a small drug case, a first time driving under the influence (of drugs or alcohol) or other rather minor offense can have major life impacts.

       A. Physicians

If you are a doctor a DUI can derail your career and while less devastating than a potential drug kinpin life sentence, it is daunting.  That DUI can stay with you like a burr in the tail of a cat.

     B. Divorce Custody Disputes

Likewise drug or alcohol cases which are small can greatly impact on child custody.  People involved in a contentious divorce can lose custody, have only supervised custody or be forced to have an alcohol sensor installed in their car following a DUI drug or alcohol arrest.

     C. Corporate Executive

 The Impact of Arrests on Professional and Personal Life

Professional Repercussions

In the corporate world, the arrest of a CEO or a key engineer can have significant implications, particularly during critical phases such as funding rounds. Such incidents are likely to be uncovered during due diligence processes, potentially affecting investor confidence and the company’s future prospects. Furthermore, as one ascends the corporate ladder, any arrest can be leveraged against them, with a conviction causing irrevocable damage to their career.

Broader Social Consequences

This issue extends beyond the corporate sphere. Schoolteachers, coaches, and even parents hosting their children’s friends are not immune. In communities such as Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, and other areas near our Lafayette office, news of an arrest can spread rapidly. A conviction can severely disrupt daily life, affecting one’s reputation and social standing.

Conclusion

It is imperative to seek expert legal representation to mitigate the consequences of an arrest and protect one’s professional and personal life. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of defense to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.

5. Thinking Out of the Box to Get You Out of the Box

Choosing the Right Drug Defense Lawyer

Caution with Online Searches

When searching for “the best drug lawyers” or “lawyers near me” on Google, be cautious. Many results may include out-of-town firms or 1-800 cookie-cutter services. Contra Costa County boasts some of the finest drug defense lawyers in the state, who will provide your case with the personal attention it deserves. This personal attention is not merely a comforting notion; it is crucial for drug cases, which are often driven by informants and require a highly specialized, case-by-case approach. For anything beyond minor cases, a focused and individualized defense is essential. Our team thinks outside the box and dedicates the necessary attention to your case.

Certified Criminal Defense Specialists

Both Daniel Horowitz and Daniel Russo are certified as Criminal Defense Specialists. The State of California prohibits the use of the term “specialist” by lawyers unless they are certified by the State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization. As of January 29, 2024, Daniel Horowitz is one of only seven certified specialists in criminal defense in Contra Costa County.

 The best lawyer to defend drug charges is a lawyer with both expertise and who is a good personal fit for you. If you believe that Daniel Horowitz and his legal team may meet your needs, please contact us at 925-291-5388

Learn more: The Criminal Process Explained by the California Courts with Comments by Daniel Horowitz (lawyersinlafayette.com)