Experienced Drug Crime Defense Attorney

“As a prosecutor, I handled or worked on over a hundred drug cases and did jury trials on both possession and ‘sales’ cases.  These cases have particular problems that require technical solutions, particularly with the searches, informants and the expert testimony used by the Prosecution to prove sales or possession for sales.” — Ryan J. Couzens

Facing drug charges in California can be overwhelming, as the legal consequences vary widely from misdemeanors to felonies, potentially leading to significant fines, probation, or even state prison time. The severity of penalties often depends on factors such as the type and quantity of the controlled substance, intent (personal use vs. distribution), and the presence of firearms.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug-related offense, our firm is here to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and pursue the best possible outcome for you.

Understanding Drug Charges in California

Drug-related offenses can range from simple possession to more serious allegations such as possession for sale, transportation, and manufacturing. Certain aggravating factors—such as being caught with drugs near a school, having a firearm at the time of the offense, or possessing large quantities—can elevate charges to felonies with harsher penalties.

For example:  Possession of drugs with a firearm – Under Health & Safety Code § 11370.1, if a loaded firearm is found alongside a controlled substance, the offense automatically becomes a felony, regardless of the drug quantity.

Alternatives to Jail for Drug Offenses

For many non-violent drug charges, California law provides alternative sentencing programs that can reduce or even eliminate jail time. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for:

• Pre-Trial Diversion – Completion of a drug education or treatment program may result in charges being dismissed.


• Deferred Entry of Judgment (DEJ) – A guilty plea is entered, but no conviction is recorded if all program requirements are met.

• Drug Court Programs – Allows for treatment and rehabilitation instead of incarceration.

Our defense team works to leverage these legal options whenever possible, helping clients avoid harsh penalties and focus on recovery and rehabilitation.

Illegal Searches & Violations of Your Rights

Many drug investigations involve searches of individuals, vehicles, homes, or personal property. If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during a search or arrest, evidence against you could be suppressed or your case dismissed entirely.

We thoroughly examine every detail of your case, challenging:

• Unlawful traffic stops & searches


• Warrantless home or property searches


• Illegal surveillance or entrapment tactics


• Violations of due process

We understand constitutional law and can defend you by exposing law enforcement errors and violations of rights.

Defending Against a Wide Range of Drug Charges

Our law firm provides strong legal representation for individuals facing a variety of drug-related charges, including:

• Possession of a Controlled Substance – (Health & Safety Code § 11350)


• Possession for Sale of a Controlled Substance – (Health & Safety Code § 11351)


• Transportation of a Controlled Substance – (Health & Safety Code § 11352)


• Cultivation of More Than Six Marijuana Plants – (Health & Safety Code § 11358)


• Possession for Sale of Marijuana – (Health & Safety Code § 11359)


• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – (Health & Safety Code § 11364)


• Possession of a Controlled Substance and a Loaded Firearm – (Health & Safety Code § 11370.1)


• Manufacturing a Controlled Substance – (Health & Safety Code § 11379.6)

Why Choose Our Firm?

• Experienced in California Drug Laws – We understand the complexities of drug statutes, sentencing enhancements, and alternative sentencing programs.


• Aggressive Defense Strategies – We thoroughly investigate cases to identify legal weaknesses, constitutional violations, and improper police conduct.


• Dedicated & Personalized Legal Support – Every case is unique, and we work closely with clients to craft the strongest defense strategy possible.

• Knowledge of the Other Side—Ryan Couzens worked sixteen years as a prosecutor and was named “Attorney of the Year” twice by his peers; Mr. Couzens 

Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today!

If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in California, don’t face the legal system alone. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense will be. Contact our firm today at (916) 603-2000 for a free consultation, and let us fight to protect your rights and secure the best outcome for your case.