Pasadena Drug Trafficking Lawyer Near You

Former prosecutor dedicated to defending Pasadenans facing criminal charges. Call today to start your defense.

Attorney Antony Tung-hero
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A drug trafficking arrest is overwhelming. Our Pasadena criminal defense attorneys at Tung & Associates offer clear, fast, and compassionate defense when you need it most.

Why Choose Pasadena Attorney Antony Tung?

As a former prosecutor, Antony Tung understands how drug cases are built – and how to take them apart. He leads our Pasadena drug trafficking defense team with direct, strategic insight. Clients work closely with Antony and get real legal guidance, not runaround.

Local Experience. Personal Service.

We’re based just minutes from the Pasadena Courthouse. Our attorneys know the local judges, prosecutors, and court process inside and out. That local knowledge helps us protect your rights and push for the best outcome.

How We Defend You

We act fast. When you hire us, we:

  • Offer a confidential consultation
  • Investigate your case and evidence
  • Challenge illegal searches and violations
  • Build a personalized defense strategy

We Speak Chinese

We offer bilingual support in Mandarin, ensuring clear communication for you and your family.

Call Now for Help

Don’t wait. Call (626) 416-4668 for a confidential consultation. We’re here 24/7 to fight for your future.

What Does Drug Trafficking Mean Under California Law?

Drug trafficking in California involves more than just large-scale operations. It can include any act of selling, transporting, or distributing illegal drugs – even in small amounts.

What Law Defines Drug Trafficking in California?

Under California Health & Safety Code §11352, it’s a felony to sell, furnish, administer, give away, transport, or import controlled substances. That includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids without authorization.

This statute doesn’t require you to be caught in the act of selling – intent alone can trigger a charge if you’re found with drugs packaged for distribution, large quantities, or items like scales or baggies.

How Is Trafficking Different From Possession?

Simple possession typically means having drugs for personal use. It may qualify for diversion programs in some cases.

Drug trafficking, by contrast, involves selling or moving drugs, even from one neighborhood to another. It carries far heavier penalties and usually makes you ineligible for diversion.

For example, being pulled over on the 210 Freeway with a large amount of narcotics and packaging materials could be charged as trafficking – even if there’s no cash exchange or sale caught on record.

Can I Be Charged With Trafficking Without Selling Anything?

Yes. You don’t have to be caught selling. Transporting drugs in a car, mailing substances, or possessing drugs with signs of distribution (like multiple baggies or large sums of cash) can all lead to trafficking charges.

That’s why a strong legal defense is critical – to challenge assumptions and prevent overcharging based on weak or circumstantial evidence.

What Types of Drug Charges Do We Handle in Pasadena?

We defend clients against the full range of California drug charges – from first-time possession to major trafficking felonies.

What Are the Most Common Drug Offenses?

We routinely represent clients facing these charges:

Drug Possession (HSC §11350):Having a controlled substance for personal use. Often a misdemeanor, but still serious. May qualify for diversion or rehab programs depending on your history.

Possession With Intent to Sell (HSC §11351): When police believe you intended to distribute drugs based on quantity, packaging, or cash. A felony with heavier penalties than simple possession.

Drug Sales or Trafficking (HSC §11352): Selling or transporting drugs – even a short distance or single handoff – can trigger this felony charge. This is often what people think of as “trafficking.”

Drug Manufacturing (HSC §11379.6): Making illegal drugs like meth or concentrated cannabis. Even possessing certain chemicals or lab equipment can lead to this charge.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HSC §11364): Having items like pipes, syringes, or bongs. This is a misdemeanor, but often appears alongside more serious charges.

What Are Some Less Common, but Serious, Drug Charges?

We also defend against charges that are less common – but carry major consequences:

  • Prescription Drug Crimes: Selling or possessing medications like OxyContin or Xanax without a prescription. These cases are often charged similarly to narcotics cases.
  • Drug Crimes Involving Minors: Giving or selling drugs to someone under 18, or involving minors in distribution. These charges come with enhanced penalties.
  • Operating a Drug House (HSC §11366): Maintaining a location where drug use or sales take place – even if indirectly – can result in a felony charge.

Why Does It Matter to List These?

Police and prosecutors often file multiple overlapping charges. For example, someone arrested for having drugs in their trunk might face possession, possession with intent to sell, and trafficking – all at once.

That’s why you need a defense attorney who understands every type of drug charge and how they relate to one another. The goal is to challenge, reduce, or dismiss charges wherever possible – and protect your record.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking in California?

Drug trafficking is a felony with harsh consequences under California Health & Safety Code §11352.

What Could Happen If You’re Convicted?

You could face:

  • 3 to 9 years in prison
  • Up to $20,000 in fines
  • Felony record and limited probation options

Sentences increase with:

  1. Large drug quantities
  2. Multiple charges
  3. Transport across county/state lines
  4. Sales near schools or involving minors
  5. Federal prosecution (which may carry 10+ year minimums)

Why Hire a Lawyer Immediately?

These penalties are severe – but not always guaranteed. With early action, our attorneys can often reduce or fight the charges. At Tung & Associates, our Pasadena drug-trafficking lawyers move fast to protect your freedom and future.

How Can a Lawyer Defend You Against Drug Trafficking Charges?

A strong defense starts with knowing how prosecutors think – and where their cases fall apart.

What Defense Strategies Could Apply to Your Case?

At Tung & Associates, we build tailored strategies based on the facts. Common defenses include:

Illegal Search and Seizure
If police searched your home, car, or phone without a warrant or probable cause, we may get that evidence thrown out.

Lack of Knowledge or Possession
You can’t be guilty if you didn’t know the drugs were there – or if they weren’t yours.

Entrapment
If police pressured or tricked you into committing a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise done, we can challenge the charge.

Unreliable Informants
Many cases rely on confidential sources. We question their credibility and, when needed, file motions to disclose or suppress their testimony.

Miranda Violations or Coerced Statements
If your rights weren’t read or your statements were forced, we fight to keep them out of court.

Bad Evidence or Mishandling
We challenge lab tests, question drug weight or composition, and examine whether evidence was properly stored and tracked.

Reducing Charges
When possible, we push to reduce trafficking charges to possession, opening the door to lesser penalties or diversion.

Why These Strategies Matter

Every case is different. That’s why we don’t use shortcuts – we examine every detail. Our goal is simple: get charges dropped, reduced, or beat them in court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Trafficking Charges

Can I avoid jail for a first-time drug trafficking charge?

Possibly – but it depends on your case. Drug trafficking is a felony, and jail time is common. However, if you have no prior record and the facts are in your favor, we may be able to negotiate reduced charges or probation. Acting quickly gives you the best shot.

What should I do if I’m arrested in Pasadena for drug trafficking?

Stay calm and protect your rights.

  1. Remain silent– don’t answer questions without a lawyer.
  2. Don’t consent to any searches.
  3. Call us immediately at (626) 416-4668.
  4. Avoid talking about your case with anyone else. The sooner we get involved, the more we can do to help.

Will my case be handled in state or federal court?

Most Pasadena drug cases stay in California state court. But if your case involves large amounts, multiple states, or federal agencies like the DEA, it may go federal. Federal cases are more complex and carry longer sentences – but we’re prepared to handle both.

Why hire Antony Tung as my defense lawyer?

Antony Tung is a former prosecutor with insight into how drug cases are built – and how to take them apart. Clients work directly with him, not just staff. We know Pasadena courts, offer 24/7 help, and speak Mandarin. Our team fights hard and treats every client with respect.

Types of Criminal Cases We Defend

Our criminal defense attorneys in Pasadena focus solely on defending the accused

DUI Charges

Caught up in a DUI charge? You’re not alone, and this doesn’t have to define your future. Our Pasadena DUI lawyers are here to challenge the evidence, defend your rights, and fight for the best outcome every step of the way.

Felony DUI Charges

Felony DUI charges can feel like your world is crashing down. But don’t panic. Our Felony DUI Lawyers in Pasadena know how to thoroughly examine the prosecution’s case and advocate for reduced charges or even dismissal. You’ve got options, and we’ll help you use them.

Assault with Deadly Weapon Charges

Charged with assault using a deadly weapon? This is serious, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Pasadena assault with a deadly weapon lawyers dig deep into every detail of your case to uncover what happened and build a powerful defense on your behalf.

Assault & Battery Charges

Sometimes things escalate fast, and suddenly you’re facing assault and battery charges. Let our Pasadena assault and battery lawyers step in and bring clarity, strategy, and strong legal defense to your side. We’re ready to stand up for your story.

Attempted Murder Charges

Being accused of attempted murder is overwhelming, but there’s still time to take control of your future. Our Pasadena attempted murder lawyers have handled high-stakes cases like this before, and we’re ready to challenge every piece of the evidence and defend your freedom.

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence accusations can damage everything you’ve built. Whether it’s a misunderstanding or a false claim, our Pasadena domestic violence lawyers help protect your rights and fight to preserve your name, your family, and your future.

Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking charges come with major consequences. But one charge doesn't define you. Our Pasadena drug trafficking lawyers bring bold, strategic defense to every case, challenging the investigation and pushing back hard against the state’s case.

Homicide charges

Homicide charges demand serious defense from day one. Our Pasadena homicide lawyers works fast to uncover the facts, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible resolution. When everything’s on the line, we’re the team you want in your corner.

Kidnapping Charges

Accused of kidnapping? It’s a charge that can carry massive penalties and lifelong consequences. Our Pasadena kidnapping lawyers are here to cut through the noise, challenge weak claims, and put your side of the story front and center.

Murder Charges

Facing a murder charge is terrifying, but always remember that you have the right to a powerful defense. Our Pasadena murder lawyers bring passion, precision, and relentless drive to protect your future and uncover the truth in every case we take on.

Robbery Charges

Robbery charges can lead to harsh penalties, but a strong defense can make all the difference. Our Pasadena robbery lawyers are ready to dig deep, find the facts, and fight to protect your freedom and your future.

Our Locations

Pasadena, California

Tung & Associates

790 East Colorado Blvd, 9th Floor Pasadena, CA 91101

Phone:(626) 416-4668

Los Angeles, California

Tung & Associates Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney

445 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Phone:(626) 416-4668

San Jose, California

Tung & Associates, APLC

84 W Santa Clara St #700, San Jose, CA 95113

Phone:(408) 332-5883

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