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Drug Crimes

Drug Crime Lawyers in Bakersfield

California's Drug Crime Laws

Drug offenses, including marijuana-related charges, continue to be prosecuted across California, particularly in jurisdictions with strict enforcement policies. These charges can escalate quickly, depending on the circumstances. The presence of guns, cash, vehicles, or other factors often turns what might seem like a minor case into a felony offense.

Many drug cases involve complex search and seizure issues that require thorough examination. Law enforcement methods used to discover drugs may violate your rights under the 4th Amendment, making it crucial to scrutinize the legality of the search. Unlawful searches can provide grounds to challenge the evidence against you and potentially have your case dismissed.

Even seemingly minor drug offenses, such as simple possession, can have serious consequences. They can affect your ability to drive, jeopardize professional and vocational licenses, and create long-term obstacles in your personal and professional life. Recognizing these collateral consequences is key to building a strong defense.

The attorneys at Humphrey & Thompson understand the lasting impact that drug offense convictions can have on a client’s life. They are committed to reducing this potential damage through strategic and thorough defense strategies. If you’re facing drug crime accusations, hiring Humphrey & Thompson could make all the difference in safeguarding your future.

Contact Humphrey & Thompson today at to schedule a consultation with one of our Bakersfield drug crime attorneys.

Types of Drug Crimes

  • Possession: Possession is typically less severe than other drug crimes. Penalties vary based on factors such as quantity, conspiracy, location, firearms, and the type of drug involved. Possession may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.
  • Sales: Accusing someone of selling controlled substances or illegally obtaining pharmaceuticals can lead to severe criminal charges. Even being caught with a significant quantity of drugs in your possession can imply intent to sell or distribute, leading to severe penalties, such as state prison time.
  • Distribution: If law enforcement discovers a large amount of illegal drugs, charges can escalate far beyond simple possession. When drugs are thought to be intended for distribution, you could face felony charges with substantial sentences.
  • Manufacturing: Manufacturing controlled substances—such as methamphetamine, synthetic drugs, or cultivating large quantities of marijuana—carries some of the harshest penalties under state and federal law. Even possessing certain chemicals or equipment can lead to charges of attempted manufacture. Convictions often result in lengthy incarceration, steep fines, and enhancements if minors or hazardous environments are involved.
  • Trafficking: Drug trafficking involves the transportation, importation, or large-scale movement of controlled substances. This crime is prosecuted aggressively and may involve both state and federal authorities. Penalties depend on drug type, quantity, prior convictions, and whether the alleged conduct crossed state or international borders. Trafficking charges often lead to mandatory minimum sentences and multimillion-dollar fines.
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  • Charges Reduced/Dismissed

    Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration

    Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial.
  • Charges Reduced/Dismissed

    Felony Sex Crime

    Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail.
  • Case Dismissal

    Sexual Abuse

    Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial.
  • Case Dismissal

    Felony Sex Case

    Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely.
  • Case Dismissal

    Rape

    Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial.
  • Case Dismissal

    Sexual Battery

    Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed.
  • Jury Trial Acquittals

    Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors

    Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors

  • Avoid Sex Offender Registration

    Sex Offense

    Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Kern County 

Penalties for drug crimes in Bakersfield vary based on factors such as the type of drug, the amount involved, and the location of the incident. Other elements, such as prior criminal history, also influence the severity of sentencing. Prosecutors often carefully assess these factors when determining charges.

Convictions for drug crimes can lead to jail or prison time, heavy fines, mandatory rehabilitation programs, and probation. Additional consequences may include losing driving privileges, facing barriers to employment, and restrictions on housing opportunities.

If a crime involves minors or vulnerable individuals or occurs in a drug-free zone, penalties can become even harsher. Repeated offenses or connections to drug trafficking carry some of the most severe consequences.

Legal representation from Humphrey & Thompson can help you understand potential penalties and build a legal strategy aimed at achieving optimal results.

  • True Trial Attorneys
  • Responsive & Prompt Communication
  • Impressive Track Record in State, & Federal Courts
  • Client-Service Focused
  • Certified Criminal Law Specialists
    “Do yourself a huge favor and hire this man!!!”

    Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!

    - Former Client
    “I appreciate his efforts in sealing the case, keeping it off public record.”

    I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!

    - Aracele S.
    “Mr. Thompson and his team worked relentlessly to get my husband's case dismissed.”

    My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.

    - Jenna B.
    “I truly believe Kyle Humphrey made all the difference in the outcome of this case and my son's record is clean.”

    My son was wrongfully accused and charged with assault. I hired Mr. Humphrey to represent him because I heard he was the best and as my son is 19 years old, I did not want this bogus charge going on his record. Mr. Humphrey did an excellent job of representing my son from day one. I am happy to say that the charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. I HIGHLY recommend Kyle J. Humphrey.

    - Tina H.
    “They treated us with respect and protected my dignity.”

    Mr Humphrey and his staff we nothing short of amazing to me and my family. 

    - Jason G.
    “Kyle is very professional but at the same time feels like your talking to a long time friend.”

    Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.

    - Saijel P.
    “Kyle took the time to listen to me and my wife about our situation and provide valuable feedback.”

    I had an amazing experience with Kyle! He is a straight shooter and that was crucial for me to hear. I was able to keep all my rights, get my case dismissed and that was huge for me! Kyle was able to take a bad situation for our family and deliver results that allowed us to move forward and grow. I highly recommend Kyle and his team!

    - KC A.
    “Kyle is knowledgeable and an awesome attorney.”

    His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.

    - Joe S.
  • State bar of California Certified Specialist 2025
  • AV
  • Super Lawyers
  • AVVO
  • Top 100

Kern County Drug Crime Attorneys

We have been defending clients against drug crime charges for over 30 years. This extensive experience, combined with unique prosecutorial backgrounds, offers deep and unique insight into law enforcement tactics and the judicial process.

The attorneys at Humphrey & Thompson can meticulously analyze your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, helping craft a defense strategy that targets the reduction or dismissal of your charges. Whether you are dealing with possession or complex distribution allegations, our methods and relentless approach aim to deliver impactful results.

Contact Humphrey & Thompson online or call today to schedule a consultation with a Bakersfield drug crimes lawyer.

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