Synthetic Drug Crime Attorney in San Diego

The Law Office of George Gedulin Can Help You Face Your Charges

Synthetic drugs are dangerous, but are produced as a legal workaround so individuals throughout the country can get “legally high.” Synthetic marijuana may be branded as a perfuming product, and other synthetic drugs could be labeled bath salts or another cleaning or household product. These substances are not for human consumption, but that does not stop individuals (including young children) from using them to get high.

There are dozens of synthetic drugs being distributed behind the scenes and in retail stores, making them very difficult to identify and regulate. Many synthetic drug manufacturers change up the formula regularly to prevent a substance from being listed on the federally controlled substance schedule. Because the nature of synthetic drugs varies widely, prosecuting these cases can be difficult. Here is what you need to know if you have been charged with a synthetic drug offense:

Synthetic Marijuana

Synthetic marijuana is often more concentrated than THC, and it is made with harsh chemicals applied to a non-regulated plant substance. The effects of synthetic marijuana may be more extreme than consuming the natural marijuana plant directly, and selling or distributing the substance is considered a misdemeanor in the state of California. In some cases, individuals facing their first offense may have the option of participating in a drug diversion program instead of going to jail. Synthetic marijuana is one of the more common types of synthetic drug cases we see today.

Other Synthetic Drugs

Other drugs that mimic the effects of methamphetamine, cocaine, and other controlled substances could be advertised as jewelry cleaner or bath salts. The drugs can be taken in a number of ways, but often produce varied and extreme effects in those who take them. They can often become more addictive than regulated controlled substances and may even do more physical harm to the body over time.

Penalties at the Federal Level

If you are prosecuted at the federal level for a synthetic drug offense, you could face a steep fine and up to a year in federal prison for possession. For trafficking activities including manufacturing, possessing with the intent to sell, selling, or distributing, the offense is considered a felony and could lead to $1 million in fines and up to 20 years in federal prison.

For small-scale activities, however, individuals are rarely prosecuted federally. Depending on the amount and the circumstances surrounding the offense, activities like manufacturing or possessing with the intent to sell could be considered a misdemeanor at the state level.

Finding a Synthetic Drug Defense Attorney in San Diego

The laws of synthetic drug use are complex, and many factors may affect the type of case a prosecutor will bring against suspects. Without the aid of a San Diego synthetic drug defense attorney who understands the limitations of the law on synthetic drugs in California and at the federal level, you could end up facing the maximum sentence for what the state thinks happened. At The Law Office of George Gedulin, we carefully investigate all synthetic drug cases to develop strong defense strategies. In many instances, the government has no case to prosecute at all. Many synthetic drug-related charges are thrown out.

Synthetic drugs can be dangerous and should be taken seriously, but that does not mean every synthetic drug case should be treated the same. Individuals misled by others, who became addicted to the substances, or who were looking for a legal solution for drug use should have access to the information and help needed to get their lives on track. If you or someone you love is facing a synthetic drug charge, you will need legal guidance in San Diego.

Reach out to The Law Office of George Gedulin for more information. Call 858-943-6591 today to speak with our San Diego synthetic drug defense lawyer.