San Diego Drug Offenses Lawyer

Charged With a Drug Crime in San Diego County? Protect Your Rights and Your Future.

California takes drug offenses seriously—and so should you. A conviction for a drug-related crime can result in jail time, steep fines, mandatory treatment programs, and a permanent criminal record that could affect your job, your immigration status, your professional license, or your ability to secure housing. And if you’re facing felony charges, the consequences only get more severe.

At Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, we understand how stressful and confusing it can be to face drug charges. Whether you’ve been arrested for simple possession or are accused of selling or transporting controlled substances, San Diego drug offenses lawyer Anthony Vargas offers knowledgeable, focused defense rooted in years of experience as both a public defender and private attorney. He serves clients throughout San Diego County, appearing regularly at courthouses in Chula Vista, El Cajon, Vista, and beyond.

Common Drug Charges in California

California law covers a wide range of drug-related offenses, from low-level misdemeanors to serious felonies. Some of the most common drug charges we handle include:

Simple possession of a controlled substance
Possession for sale (Health & Safety Code § 11351)
Sale or transportation of a controlled substance (HSC § 11352)
Possession of drug paraphernalia (HSC § 11364)
Manufacturing drugs or narcotics (HSC § 11379.6)
Marijuana-related offenses, including illegal cultivation or distribution
Prescription drug fraud
Driving under the influence of drugs (DUID)
Juvenile drug offenses

Whether the alleged drug is methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, LSD, fentanyl, prescription medication, or something else, we take the time to understand the specifics of your case and tailor your defense accordingly.

Misdemeanor or Felony?

Many drug crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances. This type of offense is known as a “wobbler” in California. Factors that influence how a charge is filed include:

The type and quantity of the substance
Whether there was evidence of intent to sell or distribute
Your criminal history
Whether minors were involved
Where the alleged offense occurred (e.g., near a school or park)

For example, possession of a small amount of certain drugs for personal use may be charged as a misdemeanor, while the same case with packaging materials or a large quantity could lead to felony possession for sale charges. As an experienced San Diego drug offense defense lawyer, Anthony Vargas can often argue successfully for lesser charges at the start of the case, improving your chances of obtaining a favorable result.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Offenses?

Drug penalties in California vary widely based on the charge and circumstances. Possible consequences include jail or prison time, fines and court fees, mandatory drug counseling or treatment, community service or probation, loss of driving privileges, loss of employment or professional licenses, and deportation for non-citizens.

However, not every drug charge leads to jail. California has several diversion programs and alternative sentencing options, especially for first-time offenders or those struggling with addiction. For example, Anthony can help determine if you’re eligible for Pretrial Diversion (PC § 1000), which allows you to complete treatment or education in exchange for dismissal of charges. Alternatively, having your case heard in a San Diego County Drug Court means the court will be focused on rehabilitation and recovery over punishment. Another option is Deferred Entry of Judgment, which may be available in limited cases depending on the nature of the offense and your record.

Building Your Defense

Anthony Z. Vargas approaches every drug case with the goal of minimizing consequences and protecting your future. He carefully reviews the facts to build a strong defense, which may include:

Challenging the legality of the search or seizure
Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully
Arguing lack of knowledge or intent
Challenging possession (actual vs. constructive possession)
Raising issues with lab testing or chain of custody
Negotiating for reduced charges or entry into diversion programs

You are innocent until proven guilty. You don’t have to accept the charges against you without a fight—and you don’t have to face the system alone.

Don’t Speak to Police Without a Lawyer Present

If you’ve been arrested or contacted by law enforcement about a drug investigation, your first instinct may be to explain your side of the story. Don’t do it. Anything you say can and will be used against you—even if you think you’re helping yourself. The smartest thing you can do is invoke your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. This protects your rights and gives you the best chance at a successful outcome.

Anthony Vargas – A Former San Diego Public Defender on Your Side

Anthony Vargas has handled hundreds of criminal cases, including a wide range of drug offenses. As a former Deputy Public Defender in San Diego, he’s seen how prosecutors approach drug cases—and how to defend against them. He brings that experience to every case he handles, working directly with you from start to finish and never handing you off to a junior associate or assistant.

Whether you’re facing your first offense or you have a prior record, whether you’re a young adult, a parent, a college student, or a working professional, Anthony will treat your case with the seriousness and attention it deserves.

Call Our San Diego Drug Crime Lawyer Today for Immediate Assistance

If you’ve been arrested or charged with a drug offense in San Diego, time is critical. Early intervention can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Contact Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law to get started today. Anthony will take the time to listen to your story, explain your options, and begin building a San Diego drug crime defense that’s focused on protecting your rights and your future.