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Synthetic Drugs Taking a Personal Approach to Law

SYNTHETIC DRUG Crime LAWYER in San Diego

The Law Office of George Gedulin Can Help You Face Your Charges

Synthetic drugs are dangerous, but are produced as a legal workaround so individuals throughout the country can get “legally high.” Synthetic marijuana may be branded as a perfuming product, and other synthetic drugs could be labeled bath salts or another cleaning or household product. These substances are not for human consumption, but that does not stop individuals (including young children) from using them to get high.

There are dozens of synthetic drugs being distributed behind the scenes and in retail stores, making them very difficult to identify and regulate. Many synthetic drug manufacturers change up the formula regularly to prevent a substance from being listed on the federally controlled substance schedule. Because the nature of synthetic drugs varies widely, prosecuting these cases can be difficult. Here is what you need to know if you have been charged with a synthetic drug offense:

SYNTHETIC MARIJUANA

Synthetic marijuana is often more concentrated than THC, and it is made with harsh chemicals applied to a non-regulated plant substance. The effects of synthetic marijuana may be more extreme than consuming the natural marijuana plant directly, and selling or distributing the substance is considered a misdemeanor in the state of California. In some cases, individuals facing their first offense may have the option of participating in a drug diversion program instead of going to jail. Synthetic marijuana is one of the more common types of synthetic drug cases we see today.

OTHER SYNTHETIC DRUGS

Other drugs that mimic the effects of methamphetamine, cocaine, and other controlled substances could be advertised as jewelry cleaner or bath salts. The drugs can be taken in a number of ways, but often produce varied and extreme effects in those who take them. They can often become more addictive than regulated controlled substances and may even do more physical harm to the body over time.

PENALTIES AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL

If you are prosecuted at the federal level for a synthetic drug offense, you could face a steep fine and up to a year in federal prison for possession. For trafficking activities including manufacturing, possessing with the intent to sell, selling, or distributing, the offense is considered a felony and could lead to $1 million in fines and up to 20 years in federal prison.

For small-scale activities, however, individuals are rarely prosecuted federally. Depending on the amount and the circumstances surrounding the offense, activities like manufacturing or possessing with the intent to sell could be considered a misdemeanor at the state level.

Finding a Synthetic Drug Defense Attorney in San Diego

The laws of synthetic drug use are complex, and many factors may affect the type of case a prosecutor will bring against suspects. Without the aid of a San Diego synthetic drug defense attorney who understands the limitations of the law on synthetic drugs in California and at the federal level, you could end up facing the maximum sentence for what the state thinks happened. At The Law Office of George Gedulin, we carefully investigate all synthetic drug cases to develop strong defense strategies. In many instances, the government has no case to prosecute at all. Many synthetic drug-related charges are thrown out.

Synthetic drugs can be dangerous and should be taken seriously, but that does not mean every synthetic drug case should be treated the same. Individuals misled by others, who became addicted to the substances, or who were looking for a legal solution for drug use should have access to the information and help needed to get their lives on track. If you or someone you love is facing a synthetic drug charge, you will need legal guidance in San Diego.

Reach out to The Law Office of George Gedulin for more information. Call (858) 281-4605 today to speak with our San Diego synthetic drug defense lawyer.

Successful Defense Cases

  • 16 Counts, Unlawful Sexual Intercourse with a Minor Sentence Reduced, All Other Charges Dropped

    Client charged with multiple sexual assault offenses, facingĀ 16 years in prison. Convicted of One Count of Sex with a Minor, 2 years Jail, All other charges dismissed.

  • 24 Count, Insurance Fraud Conspiracy, Grand Theft in excess of $250,000 Reduced Sentence, Other Charges Dropped

    Client charged as head of conspiracy to present false claims to insurance companies, losses over $250,000. Client facing 22 years in State Prison. Convicted of two counts of insurance fraud, sentenced to 2 years in jail, remaining charges dismissed.

  • Assault with semi-automatic Firearm, Criminal Threat, Domestic Violence Dismissed Charges

    Charges exposed client to 8 years in State Prison and two serious strike felonies. Court dismisses all gun related charges at preliminary hearing, client pleads to domestic violence charge only, no custody.

  • Felony Domestic Violence Arrest All criminal charges dismissed

    After arrest, defense investigation reveals that spouse was aggressor and caused harm to client, all criminal charges dismissed.

  • Felony Gun Possession, Felony Child Abuse Charges Dismissed

    Client charged with felony gun possession and endangering life of a child being in illegal possession of loaded weapons in the home. Potential 6 year Prison sentence. Child endangerment charges dismissed, NO Custody.

  • Possession of 5KG of Methamphetamine while Armed with Loaded Gun Probation and Other Charges Dismissed.

    Client facing 4 counts of possessing large quantity of Methamphetamine for sale and a loaded gun with no serial number. District Attorney offer of 6 years in State Prison. Ultimate resolution was a plea to gun possession only, probation and credit for time served with no additional jail time. All other charges dismissed.

  • Restraining Order, Accusations of Sexual Assault Case Dismissed

    Defense Victory at trial for restraining order, Judge dismissed complaint against client, finding victims allegations and testimony not-credible.

  • Shoplifting from Naval Commissary Case Dismissed

    Case Dismissed, record sealed in Federal Court

  • Welfare Fraud No Custody, Case Dismissed Following Probation

    6 Counts of Fraud by Misrepresentation and Perjury. Possible 4 year prison sentence maximum. Defense negotiated with prosecution for Diversion Program.

  • Marijuana Possession for Sale/Transportation Plea to Simple Possession, Probation and Fines,

    ½ pound of Marijuana, $5,000, baggies, scales and Marijuana storage paraphernalia, potential 4 years in jail, Defense argued insufficient evidence to prove sales of Marijuana or Drug Trafficking and filed motion to return all seized property.

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