Experienced. Strategic. Results-Driven.
Facing drug charges in California can be overwhelming and life-altering. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a drug offense, your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. Law enforcement and prosecutors aggressively pursue drug crimes — especially in the wake of the opioid crisis and the rising popularity of fentanyl. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we provide experienced, strategic, and relentless defense to individuals facing a wide range of drug-related charges.
We understand the nuances of drug laws, and we know how to challenge the prosecution’s case at every stage. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor possession or a serious felony distribution charge, we are here to fight for your rights, freedom, and future.
Experienced Defense Against All Types of Drug Charges
We defend clients against all types of drug-related offenses, including:
- Simple Possession (HS §11350, §11377): Possession of controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, ecstasy, and prescription medications without a valid prescription.
- Possession for Sale (HS §11351, §11378): Prosecutors may charge you with this even if they lack direct evidence of a sale—possession of large amounts, cash, or packaging materials can be used against you.
- Drug Trafficking and Distribution: These cases often involve state and federal law. Convictions may carry mandatory minimum sentences depending on the quantity and substance involved.
- Drug Manufacturing / Cultivation (HS §11379.6): Includes meth labs, cannabis grows without proper licensing, and chemical manufacturing of synthetic drugs.
- Prescription Drug Crimes: Including possession, abuse, fraud, forgery, or distribution of medications like Xanax, OxyContin, or Adderall without a valid prescription.
- Marijuana Offenses (despite Prop 64): Unlawful cultivation, unlicensed distribution, or transporting large quantities can still lead to charges.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HS §11364): While often considered a lesser charge, it can still carry fines and complicate future legal issues.
We defend clients charged with crimes involving all drugs, including, but not limited to, fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, crack, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), Ketamine, Xanax, Adderall, OxyContin, Norco, and other narcotics or prescription drugs.
Fentanyl Charges: High Stakes, Harsh Penalties
Fentanyl has become a top priority for prosecutors across California due to its potency and link to accidental overdose deaths. Even a small amount can lead to serious felony charges — including possession for sale, transportation, or even involuntary manslaughter or second-degree murder under certain circumstances.
If you’re charged with a fentanyl-related crime, you could face:
- Lengthy prison sentences, including enhancements under California’s major narcotic offender statutes
- Federal drug trafficking charges, if the case crosses state lines or involves significant quantities
- Asset forfeiture, including seizure of money, vehicles, or property
We aggressively challenge the government’s evidence, including field tests, lab analysis, and the intent to sell — which is often assumed based on packaging, quantity, or other circumstantial evidence even in the absence of direct proof.
Protecting Your Rights from Start to Finish
Each case is unique, and we tailor our defense team and strategies to the specific facts and circumstances of each case. We work to secure the most favorable outcome possible — whether through pre-trial motions, negotiation, or trial.
We approach every case with a clear goal: to minimize or eliminate the impact of the charges on your life.
Common defenses include, but are not limited to:
- Illegal search and seizure: If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, we will aggressively pursue a motion to suppress the illegally obtained evidence. Success could lead to reduced charges or even a complete dismissal.
- Lack of possession or knowledge: Being near drugs, or with someone else who has drugs, is not enough by itself to establish unlawful possession.
- Entrapment: In some sting operations, law enforcement may go too far.
- Lack of intent to sell: Challenging claims based on packaging, quantity, cash, or other circumstantial evidence the prosecution will try to stretch to make their case.
We examine all aspects of every case, and will:
- Review the legality and accuracy of search warrants and wiretaps
- Examine whether confidential informants or undercover operations were used lawfully
- Analyze the prosecution’s lab results and chain of custody
We also explore alternatives to incarceration, including:
- Diversion programs
- Treatment Courts
- Deferred entry of judgment (DEJ)
- Rehabilitation and treatment options in lieu of jail
These options may lead to dismissal of charges upon successful completion.
Get an Aggressive, Skilled Advocate on Your Side
Don’t face drug charges alone. The prosecution is already building its case — let us start building your defense. With deep knowledge of drug laws and a track record of successful outcomes, the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright will immediately begin investigating your case, protecting your rights, and building a strong defense
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Take the first step toward protecting your freedom, your record, and your future.