Los Angeles Ecstasy Defense Attorneys

Defending Clients Against Los Angeles Ecstasy Charges

Also known as Molly or MDMA, Ecstasy is a synthetic substance that alters mood and perception. Chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens, this drug produces sensations of pleasure, increased energy, emotional warmth, and distorted time and sensory perception. Ecstasy is a controlled substance that is illegal to possess, sell, or distribute. If you are facing Ecstasy charges, consult with an experienced Los Angeles drug crime defense attorney as soon as possible.

What Are the Different Types of Ecstasy Charges in California?

Drug crimes involving Ecstasy are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law in California. Possible charges include:

• Possession of Ecstasy: For a first offense, this crime carries up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Penalties may be more severe for a second or subsequent offense.
• Possession of Ecstasy for sale: Possession of MDMA for sale is a felony in California. Upon conviction, you could serve 16 months, two years, or three years in prison and pay a fine of up to $10,000.
• Transportation of Ecstasy: This is a felony offense, punishable by a prison sentence of two to four years and/or a fine of up to $10,000. When Ecstasy is transported from one county to another noncontiguous (not sharing a border) county for sale, the prison sentence may be increased to three to nine years.
• Sale or distribution of Ecstasy: Sale of Ecstasy is a felony that carries a prison sentence of two to nine years.

What Are the State Laws on Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in California, meaning that it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Possession of this drug is a violation of the California Health and Safety Code Section 11377. Under state law, it is a crime to have possession of, be under the influence of, sell, transport, manufacture, traffic, or operate a motor vehicle under the influence of MDMA.

What Are the Possible Defenses Against Ecstasy Charges in California?

Our experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys can thoroughly examine the prosecution's case against you and challenge every flaw. Depending on the circumstances of your case, possible defenses against Los Angeles Ecstasy charges include the following:

• Arguing that the Ecstasy did not belong to you or that you were not aware of its presence
• Questioning the accuracy of the drug testing methods or measurements used to determine the amount of Ecstasy involved
• Challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to the arrest
• Arguing that possession was for personal use only and not for sale
• Asserting the legal defense of entrapment – you only possessed or sold Ecstasy because law enforcement lured or coerced you into doing so

What Are the Consequences of a Conviction of Ecstasy Charges in Los Angeles?

California imposes severe penalties for drug crimes involving Ecstasy. A conviction could mean jail or prison time and significant fines. It can also leave you with a criminal record that could negatively impact your future employment, housing, and other prospects. If the conviction is for driving under the influence of Ecstasy, your driver's license could be suspended or revoked. For non-citizens, there could be immigration consequences, including possible deportation.

If you have been charged with a drug crime involving Ecstasy in California, your best course of action is to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away. Contact Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460. Our firm has a history of success defending clients against drug crime charges. We can advise of your legal options, negotiate skillfully with the prosecution for a plea agreement, or provide a strong defense against the charges in court.