

Bakersfield Drug Manufacturing Attorney
Protecting Your Rights Against Serious Drug Manufacturing Charges in Bakersfield, CA
Drug manufacturing charges are among the most serious criminal offenses under California and federal law. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for allegedly manufacturing or cultivating controlled substances in Bakersfield, your future could be on the line. A conviction could lead to lengthy prison sentences, massive fines, and a permanent criminal record. You need an experienced Bakersfield drug manufacturing lawyer who understands how to protect your rights and aggressively fight for the best possible outcome.
At Humphrey & Thompson, we provide strategic legal defense for clients facing drug manufacturing and cultivation charges throughout Kern County. Our criminal defense team has the knowledge and courtroom experience necessary to challenge evidence, negotiate favorable resolutions, and advocate for clients in both state and federal court.
Contact us at today to schedule a free consultation.

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What To Expect After Arrest
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The Attorneys You Need On Your Side
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Thousands of Successful Cases
What is Drug Manufacturing?
Under California Health & Safety Code §11379.6, it is illegal to manufacture, compound, convert, produce, derive, process, or prepare a controlled substance, either directly or indirectly. This law applies to both street drugs like methamphetamine or heroin and prescription medications such as opioids, if produced unlawfully.
Drug manufacturing also includes the cultivation of certain drugs—most notably marijuana—without proper licenses or in violation of California’s cannabis regulations. Even owning certain types of lab equipment or precursors can result in criminal charges if law enforcement believes they were used in the process of manufacturing drugs.
In many cases, manufacturing charges are filed in addition to possession, distribution, or conspiracy offenses, dramatically increasing the potential penalties.
Common Ways to Manufacture or Cultivate Controlled Substances
Law enforcement agencies in Bakersfield and across California are highly aggressive when it comes to cracking down on drug labs and illegal grow operations. Common scenarios that may lead to drug manufacturing charges include:
- Operating a Meth Lab: The production of methamphetamine typically involves the use of hazardous chemicals and makeshift lab equipment in homes, sheds, or garages.
- Marijuana Cultivation Without a License: Although cannabis is legal in California under certain regulations, unauthorized cultivation—especially in large quantities—remains a criminal offense.
- Producing Synthetic Drugs: Creating synthetic substances like MDMA, LSD, or fentanyl in unauthorized labs is a felony under state and federal law.
- Growing Psilocybin Mushrooms: Cultivating psychedelic mushrooms is illegal in California, despite increasing moves toward decriminalization in other parts of the country.
- Possessing Drug Manufacturing Equipment: Even owning glassware, solvents, or precursors like pseudoephedrine can lead to charges if connected to illegal manufacturing.
If you have been accused of any of these activities, it is crucial to retain a Bakersfield drug manufacturing attorney as soon as possible.
Penalties for Drug Manufacturing in California
Drug manufacturing is a felony offense in California and is punishable by severe criminal penalties.
Penalties for a state conviction include:
- 3 to 7 years in state prison for manufacturing or attempting to manufacture a controlled substance.
- Fines of up to $50,000.
- Enhanced sentences if minors are involved, if the operation is near schools, or if hazardous chemicals are used.
Manufacturing charges may be prosecuted under federal law if the case involves large-scale operations, cross-state activity, or certain controlled substances.
Here are the federal penalties:
- Minimum 10 years to life imprisonment for large quantities.
- Mandatory minimums apply depending on drug type and quantity.
Additional consequences include:
- Asset forfeiture (homes, vehicles, money).
- Probation or parole restrictions.
- Loss of professional licenses or employment.
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens.
Every case is different, and sentencing depends on a range of factors. At Humphrey & Thompson, we fight to get charges reduced or dismissed and seek alternatives to incarceration where possible.


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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
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Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Drug Manufacturing FAQs
The following are several frequently asked questions about drug manufacturing charges in Bakersfield, CA:
What should I do if I’m under investigation for drug manufacturing?
Do not speak to law enforcement without legal representation. Politely invoke your right to remain silent and contact a defense attorney immediately.
Is it still illegal to grow marijuana in California?
While personal cultivation of cannabis is legal under Prop 64, growing large quantities, selling without a license, or operating an illegal grow house can result in felony charges.
Can I be charged for simply having lab equipment or chemicals?
Yes, if the items are believed to be used for drug manufacturing. However, the prosecution must prove your intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Are drug manufacturing charges always prosecuted at the state level?
No. If your case involves large amounts of drugs, crosses state lines, or involves certain substances, it may be prosecuted in federal court, which typically carries harsher penalties.
Can I avoid prison time for a manufacturing charge?
Possibly. Diversion programs, plea bargains, and alternative sentencing may be available depending on your criminal history and the circumstances of the case.
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True Trial Attorneys
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Responsive & Prompt Communication
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Impressive Track Record in State, & Federal Courts
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Client-Service Focused
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Certified Criminal Law Specialists


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- Aracele S.
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!
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- Former Client
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!
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- Jenna B.
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.
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- KC A.
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!
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- Tina H.
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.

Speak to a Bakersfield Drug Manufacturing Lawyer Today
Drug manufacturing charges are serious and require immediate legal action. If you or a loved one is facing these accusations in Bakersfield or anywhere in Kern County, you need a skilled advocate who will stand by your side every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with a knowledgeable Bakersfield drug manufacturing attorney.

