Most drug cases start with a search. Whether that search was lawful, and whether the evidence shows possession or intent to sell, decides what the case is really worth.
HS 11350 / 11377
Misdemeanor or felony
Possessing a controlled substance, such as cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, or methamphetamine, without a valid prescription.
Exposure
Usually a misdemeanor, up to one year in county jail, with diversion often available. Certain prior convictions can make it a felony, and repeat cases can be charged as a treatment-mandated felony under HS 11395.
HS 11350 · HS 11377 · HS 11395 · Full guide →
HS 11351 / 11378
Felony
Possessing a controlled substance with the intent to sell it. Prosecutors usually rely on quantity, packaging, scales, cash, or messages.
Exposure
HS 11351 (narcotics such as cocaine or heroin): two, three, or four years under PC 1170(h). HS 11378 (such as methamphetamine): 16 months, two, or three years.
HS 11352 / 11379
Felony
Selling, furnishing, or giving away a controlled substance, or transporting it for sale. Transporting only for personal use is not covered.
Exposure
HS 11352: three, four, or five years under PC 1170(h). HS 11379: two, three, or four years. Transporting across non-contiguous counties carries more.
HS 11364
Misdemeanor
Possessing a device used to unlawfully inject or smoke certain controlled substances.
Exposure
A misdemeanor carrying a fine and possible county jail time. Often resolved through diversion.
The ranges above summarize the statutes as maximums and minimums, not predictions. Enhancements, prior convictions, and the specific facts can change them, and many cases resolve with diversion, reduced charges, or dismissal. This is general information, not legal advice, and no outcome is guaranteed. Statute links go to California Legislative Information.
other practice areas
01
DUI, reckless driving, suspended license, hit and run, evading, vehicular manslaughter.
7 charges →
02
Domestic violence, assault with a deadly weapon, battery, criminal threats, attempted murder, murder.
9 charges →
03
Petty and grand theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, receiving stolen property, embezzlement, auto theft.
8 charges →
04
Concealed firearm, felon in possession, loaded firearm in public.
3 charges →
05
Indecent exposure, solicitation, failure to register.
3 charges →
06
Vandalism, resisting arrest, probation violations, warrants, expungements.
5 charges →
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Legal Lion
Criminal defense in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Riverside County. Direct representation from Raja Rafay Shahid. Legal Lion was founded in 2020.
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