San Diego Controlled Substance Sales Defense Lawyer
In California, drug sale charges are among the most serious drug-related offenses a person can face. While simple possession might be charged as a misdemeanor, allegations of selling or intending to sell controlled substances almost always lead to felony prosecution—and with it, the possibility of years behind bars, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record.
If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for selling drugs in San Diego County, your next steps are critical. You need experienced San Diego drug sales defense lawyer in your corner immediately. At Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, we deliver calm, confident, and strategic legal defense to people facing the most challenging moments of their lives. As a former Public Defender with extensive trial experience, Anthony knows what it takes to fight these charges and protect your future.
California’s Drug Sale Laws
The primary law governing drug sales in California is Health & Safety Code section 11352, which makes it a felony to sell, furnish, administer, or give away controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, LSD, and certain prescription medications without legal authority. Section 11351 applies when a person is accused of possessing a drug with the intent to sell it, even if no actual sale occurred.
These offenses can apply in many different scenarios—whether you were allegedly caught in the act, arrested during a sting operation, or found with drugs and other items suggesting an intent to distribute. Unlike personal possession charges, where rehabilitation and diversion programs may be available, cases involving sales are treated far more harshly by prosecutors.
What Counts as “Sale” or “Intent to Sell”?
You don’t have to be caught exchanging drugs for money to face a sale charge. In fact, law enforcement and prosecutors will often rely on circumstantial evidence to support an arrest and prosecution. Common indicators of intent to sell include:
- A large quantity of drugs, more than expected for personal use
- Individually packaged substances (such as baggies or balloons)
- Scales, ledgers, or pay-owe sheets
- Large amounts of cash
- Text messages or communications related to drug transactions
Unfortunately, this kind of evidence can be misinterpreted or taken out of context. A person might be in possession of someone else’s property, or they may have a legitimate reason for having certain items in their possession. That’s why it’s so important to have a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer challenge the assumptions being made about your intent.
Penalties for Drug Sale Convictions
A conviction for selling or possessing drugs for sale can carry serious consequences. Under Health & Safety Code §11352, penalties include:
- Three, four, or five years in state prison for most offenses
- Additional time if the offense occurred near a school, involved minors, or included particularly large quantities
- Hefty fines, sometimes up to $20,000
- Probation, often with strict terms, drug testing, and supervision
If you have a prior drug conviction or strike offense, sentencing enhancements could result in significantly more prison time. And unlike misdemeanor drug cases, diversion and other alternative sentencing programs are typically not available in sale cases.
Anthony works hard to reduce or eliminate enhancements, explore potential sentencing alternatives where possible, and negotiate for reduced charges when the facts allow. And when a case must go to trial, he’s prepared to present a strong, compelling defense that challenges the prosecution’s assumptions and protects your rights.
Defending Against Drug Sale Allegations in San Diego
Every case begins with a thorough investigation. Anthony will scrutinize every aspect of your arrest and the prosecution’s case against you—looking at the legality of the search or seizure, the reliability of any informants, the chain of custody of the drugs, and any supposed evidence of intent to sell.
Many drug sale cases involve undercover operations, informants, or surveillance. If these tactics violated your constitutional rights or involved entrapment, that could form the basis for a motion to suppress evidence or even dismiss the case entirely.
In some situations, we may be able to argue that the drugs were for personal use, not for sale. While that’s still a criminal offense, it is significantly less serious and may open the door to treatment-focused resolutions such as diversion or deferred entry of judgment.
Every case is unique, and Anthony’s approach is always tailored to the facts at hand. Whether through aggressive negotiation or courtroom litigation, his priority is to safeguard your freedom and future.
Your Rights Are at Stake—Don’t Speak to Police Without a Lawyer
If you’ve been arrested or questioned in connection with a drug sale investigation, it is essential that you assert your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Law enforcement officers may try to pressure you into talking by making promises or threats. Don’t fall for it.
Anything you say can be twisted to support the case against you, even if you’re trying to explain or clarify. Protect yourself by calling an attorney immediately. The sooner Anthony gets involved, the more opportunity there is to intervene, challenge unlawful procedures, and begin building a solid defense.
Defending Against Drug Sale Cases Across San Diego County
Anthony Z. Vargas represents clients facing drug sale charges throughout San Diego County, appearing regularly at courthouses in San Diego, Chula Vista, Vista, and El Cajon. He is known in these courtrooms for his preparation, professionalism, and tireless advocacy on behalf of his clients.
As someone who has spent years defending people in some of the county’s busiest criminal courts, Anthony understands how these cases play out from both sides. He knows what prosecutors are looking for and how to respond effectively—whether that means challenging evidence, negotiating reduced charges, or taking your case to trial.
Speak With a Skilled San Diego Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Today
A drug sale charge is not something you should face alone. With your freedom, reputation, and future on the line, having the right lawyer by your side can make all the difference. At Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., Attorney at Law, we help you understand what you’re facing, explore your options, and take the right steps toward a better outcome.
Call our San Diego drug sales lawyer today for a confidential consultation to discuss your options. Let Anthony Vargas put his knowledge, experience, and dedication to work for you.