Drug Crime Lawyer in Oakland
More Than 25 Years Defending Drug Charges in Alameda County
At Demetrius Costy Law, we defend people facing drug charges in Oakland and Alameda County. We closely examine the alleged substance, laboratory evidence, witness accounts, and circumstances of any search or seizure. We also assess whether prosecutors can connect the controlled substances to you and prove every required element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Attorney Demetrius Costy has more than 25 years of criminal defense experience and has represented clients in large, complex Bay Area drug cases. His documented results include dismissals in a 19-kilogram cocaine case and a 300-pound marijuana case, along with reduced charges in other cases. We personally manage your defense from the first call through court appearances, so you know who is handling your case.
Arrested on drug charges? Schedule your free consultation online or at (510) 254-3945 today.
Types of Drug Charges in California
California drug cases can involve controlled substances, meaning drugs regulated by law, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, other narcotics, and prescription medications. The specific allegation can depend on the substance, quantity, alleged purpose, location, prior record, and circumstances surrounding the seizure.
Possession for sale and distribution allegations may rely on packaging, scales, cash, communications, witness statements, or laboratory testing. No single item has the same significance in every case. We review the complete record rather than accepting the prosecution’s interpretation of the evidence.
Typical drug crimes in California include:
- Simple drug possession for personal use
- Possession with intent to sell
- Drug paraphernalia possession
- Drug manufacturing
- Drug distribution
- Drug trafficking
Potential Penalties, Diversion & Defense Issues
Consequences vary according to the charged statute, substance, alleged conduct, prior convictions, enhancements, and whether the case is prosecuted in state or federal court. Simple possession, possession for sale, transportation, distribution, and manufacturing have different legal elements and potential penalties. A conviction or plea can also affect immigration status, employment, professional licensing, housing, firearm rights, or driving privileges, depending on the offense and personal circumstances.
Some cases may qualify for diversion, a process that can allow an eligible person to complete court-ordered conditions before the case may be dismissed. Under California Penal Code section 1001.95, a misdemeanor diversion order may continue for up to 24 months, but eligibility and terms are case-specific. Alameda County also has an adult drug court program that may combine treatment, supervision, and court oversight for eligible participants. Our criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether either option applies.
We examine whether officers had a lawful basis for the search, whether seized items were properly handled, and whether laboratory or witness evidence is reliable. We also address related driving privilege issues when a drug case affects your license. Our goal is to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and pursue the most practical strategy available under the facts.
Talk with an Oakland Drug Attorney Today
Our firm has handled thousands of cases, with documented past outcomes that include dismissals, acquittals, reduced charges, recalled warrants, and cases in which clients avoided jail. Every case is different, so we give you realistic guidance rather than promising a particular result.
You can expect direct representation, prompt returned calls, and plain-language explanations of the charges and strategy. We remain available between court dates, communicate with prosecutors directly, and stay present during long or unpredictable court days. Same-day appointments, fair fees, and payment flexibility are available.
Call us 24/7 for a free consultation at (510) 254-3945.
