Drug Crimes Defense Attorney In Yuma, AZ

Drug charges in Arizona carry serious consequences, from probation and fines to years in prison. Whether you're facing a first-time possession charge or allegations of drug trafficking, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands Arizona's drug laws, knows how to challenge the prosecution's evidence, and can fight to protect your freedom.

Attorney Joshua Cordova defends clients throughout Yuma County against all types of drug-related charges. He has helped individuals facing possession, distribution, manufacturing and trafficking allegations get charges reduced or dismissed through strategic defense, evidence challenges and negotiation with prosecutors. If you've just been arrested, call immediately - we handle emergency criminal arrests 24/7.

Drug cases often involve constitutional issues like illegal searches and seizures. Police must follow strict rules when stopping vehicles, searching homes and seizing evidence. If your rights were violated during your arrest, that evidence may be suppressed and your charges could be dismissed. Mr. Cordova carefully reviews every detail of your case to identify violations and build the strongest possible defense.

Drug Charges We Defend In Yuma

Arizona prosecutes a wide range of drug offenses, from simple possession to large-scale trafficking operations. Mr. Cordova defends clients facing all types of drug-related charges, including:

• Methamphetamine Possession and Sales: Meth charges are aggressively prosecuted in Arizona and carry mandatory prison time for amounts over the threshold.
• Cocaine, Heroin and Fentanyl Charges: Possession, distribution or trafficking of these controlled substances can result in lengthy prison sentences.
• Prescription Drug Fraud: Obtaining prescription medications through false prescriptions, doctor shopping, or theft can lead to felony fraud charges.
• Drug Paraphernalia: Possession of items used to consume, manufacture or distribute drugs, often charged alongside possession offenses.
• Drug Trafficking and Transportation: Moving drugs across state lines or within Arizona, often charged as a Class 2 felony with 5-15 years in prison. These charges frequently occur alongside weapons offenses.
• Manufacturing or Production: Operating drug labs or cultivation operations, including marijuana grow houses.
• Possession With Intent To Sell: Prosecutors may upgrade simple possession to distribution charges based on the amount, packaging, scales, or cash found during arrest.

Each type of charge comes with different penalties and defense strategies. Mr. Cordova will analyze the specific facts of your case to determine the best approach for fighting the charges against you.

Penalties For Drug Crimes In Arizona

Arizona imposes some of the harshest drug penalties in the nation. The severity of punishment depends on the type of drug, the amount involved and whether you have prior convictions.

Possession charges are typically classified as Class 4 or Class 6 felonies. For a first-time offense, you may be eligible for probation, drug treatment programs or diversion. However, subsequent offenses or possession of large amounts can result in several years in prison.

Sales and trafficking charges are serious felonies with mandatory prison time. Trafficking offenses often carry sentences of 5 to 15 years or more, depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Arizona law sets threshold amounts—if you're caught with more than the threshold, prosecutors can charge you with intent to sell or trafficking, even if you had no intention to distribute.

Drug-free school zone enhancements increase penalties if the offense occurred near a school, park or other designated area. These enhancements can add years to your sentence and eliminate probation eligibility.

Beyond prison time, a drug conviction creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, student loans and firearm rights. That's why it's critical to fight your charges with an experienced defense attorney who can pursue dismissal, reduction or diversion alternatives.

Common Defenses Against Drug Charges

Every drug case is different, but several defense strategies can be effective in getting charges reduced or dismissed:

• Illegal Search and Seizure: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches. If police searched your car, home or person without a warrant or probable cause, the evidence they found may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of Possession: Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly possessed the drugs. If drugs were found in a shared vehicle, residence or public area, you may argue that they didn't belong to you or that you had no knowledge of their presence.
• Lack of Knowledge: You cannot be convicted of drug possession if you didn't know the drugs were there. This defense is common in cases where drugs are found in luggage, vehicles or areas you don't control.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a drug offense you wouldn't have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
• Chain of Custody Issues: Prosecutors must prove that the drugs seized from you are the same drugs tested and presented in court. Breaks in the chain of custody can cast doubt on the evidence.
• Crime Lab Errors: Drug testing and analysis must be conducted properly. Lab mistakes, contamination or misidentification can lead to wrongful charges.

Mr. Cordova will investigate the circumstances of your arrest, review police reports and evidence, and identify the most effective defense strategy for your case.

Diversion Programs And Alternative Sentencing

Arizona recognizes that addiction and substance abuse are often at the root of drug offenses. For first-time offenders or those with minimal criminal history, diversion programs offer an opportunity to avoid prison and get treatment instead.

Proposition 200 allows first-time drug possession offenders to receive probation and drug treatment instead of prison. This Arizona law applies to simple possession charges and can keep you out of jail if you comply with the program's requirements.

Drug Court is a specialized court program for individuals with substance abuse issues. Participants receive intensive supervision, treatment and support services. Successful completion can result in charges being dismissed or significantly reduced.

Not everyone qualifies for diversion programs. Eligibility depends on the type of charge, criminal history and the prosecutor's willingness to approve alternative sentencing. Mr. Cordova will evaluate whether you're a candidate for diversion and advocate for your participation in these programs when appropriate.

Why You Need A Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

Drug charges are not something you should face without legal representation. The prosecution has access to law enforcement resources, crime labs and experienced attorneys whose job is to convict you. You need someone on your side who can level the playing field.

Mr. Cordova understands Arizona's drug laws, knows how to challenge evidence obtained through illegal searches, and has experience negotiating with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed. He will review every aspect of your case, from the traffic stop or search warrant to the lab results and witness statements. Learn more about Mr. Cordova's experience and credentials.

Many drug cases are won or lost based on constitutional violations during the arrest. Did police have reasonable suspicion to stop you? Did they have probable cause to search your vehicle? Was the search warrant valid? These questions can determine whether the evidence against you is admissible in court. Ready to discuss your case? Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Don't assume that just because drugs were found, you will be convicted. Prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, and Mr. Cordova will hold them to that standard. Whether through suppression of evidence, negotiation for diversion, or taking your case to trial, he will fight for the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes