Fresno Drug Manufacturing Attorney

Defeating drug manufacturing charges can only be done with the help of a skilled Fresno drug manufacturing attorney. Spending years as both a defender and a prosecutor, California drug lawyer Michael McKneely understands that people are often treated unfairly when it comes to drug crimes. Common consequences for a drug manufacturing charge, for example, include spending years in state prison and paying enormous fines. If you have been charged with drug manufacturing, you are likely worried about these penalties.

He also knows that, with the right defense strategy, it is often possible to get drug charges dismissed or reduced. Call Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer today at (559) 443-7442 to see how Mike can help.

Defining Drug Manufacturing

Drug manufacturing falls under the legal umbrella of the California drug trafficking statutes. Section 11379.6 of the California Health and Safety Code defines drug manufacturing as participating in or offering to participate in the manufacturing of a controlled substance. Among the drugs that are illegal to manufacture are prescription drugs, methamphetamine, cocaine, and LSD.

Many drug crimes can be brought in both state and federal court. Prosecutors and police agencies generally collaborate to determine which court system will handle the case. Lower level drug crimes, and those involving smaller quantities of drugs, are commonly tried at the state level. However, a case may be taken to federal court if the arrest is made by a federal agent, there are large quantities of drugs involved, the crime falls within federal jurisdiction, or drug manufacturing is charged. Most federal drug manufacturing cases in California involve large operations or pose a significant threat to public safety.

Drug Manufacturing Penalties

While some lower level drug offenses are considered misdemeanors, all drug manufacturing charges in Fresno are punishable as felonies. The penalties for drug manufacturing are harsh, especially when the nonviolent nature of most drug crimes is considered. Common sentences for drug manufacturing include:

• Drug Manufacturing – 3, 5, or 7 years in county jail and a fine of up to $50,000
• Offering to Participate in Drug Manufacturing — 3, 4, or 5 years in county jail
• Drug Manufacturing Where Children Reside – Additional term of up to 5 years

Certain elements in a crime, known as aggravating factors, can result in an additional sentence. These drug manufacturing enhancements include:

• Manufacturing drugs that contain PCP, methamphetamine, or GHB
• Manufacturing with prior criminal convictions
• Manufacturing methamphetamine or PCP which results in bodily injury or death
• Trafficking drugs near a rehabilitation treatment center

Talk to a Fresno Drug Manufacturing Attorney Today

With the help of a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer in Fresno, many strategies may be available to prove your innocence and defend your freedom. To speak with a criminal defense attorney from Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer today, call (559) 443-7442.