Orange County Drug Crimes Attorney

Charged with a Drug Crime? Act Now.

Have you been charged with a drug crime in Newport Beach? It is important that you seek aggressive legal representation. Drug Crimes in California carry harsh penalties against individuals who are convicted. These penalties can have a long-term impact on your future. Because of this, it is critical to retain the services of an experienced and knowledgeable Orange County drug crime defense attorney to handle your case.

Law enforcement agencies and local prosecutors pursue drug-related offenses with particular intensity. As a result, even a first-time offense can lead to significant legal consequences.

Our Orange County drug crimes lawyer, Alan Castillo - Attorney at Law, has represented clients against all types of criminal charges for more than 25 years and is well aware of the potential penalties that you may face if convicted. Our goal is to begin investigating every aspect of your situation immediately, determine with you the best legal course of action, and fight tirelessly for the favorable outcome you need.

Discuss your case in a FREE consultation with our Orange County drug crime attorney.

Drug Charges & Arrest Procedures in Newport Beach

Drug arrests are usually handled by the Newport Beach Police Department with support from Orange County task forces or state agencies. Common charges include possession of controlled substances, possession with intent to sell, distribution, trafficking, and prescription drug fraud. The seriousness of a case often depends on where and how the alleged offense occurred, especially if it took place near schools, parks, or entertainment areas.

After an arrest, law enforcement must follow specific legal procedures such as advising you of your rights and properly handling any evidence. When officers fail to do so, such as through an unlawful search or a lack of probable cause, I can challenge the legality of the arrest and seek to have any improperly obtained evidence excluded. This review is the foundation of my defense work and often determines how much leverage we have to negotiate or fight the charges.

Drug cases in Newport Beach are prosecuted through the Orange County Superior Court system under state and local law. Some first-time offenders may qualify for diversion or treatment programs under California Penal Code Section 1000. I help clients determine eligibility and complete every requirement, working toward outcomes that focus on rehabilitation and record protection rather than punishment.

Consequences of a Drug Arrest & Conviction

A conviction for a drug-related offense in Orange County can affect far more than your immediate freedom. Beyond fines or incarceration, it can lead to probation, mandatory counseling, community service, and the loss of important personal and professional opportunities. Even a misdemeanor conviction can appear on background checks, limiting housing options, employment prospects, and eligibility for certain licenses.

I focus on protecting clients from these lasting consequences. By scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence, challenging the legality of searches, and negotiating with prosecutors when appropriate, I work to reduce or eliminate penalties that can follow you for years. In some cases, pursuing diversion, treatment, or deferred judgment programs can help you avoid a criminal record entirely.

For professionals such as healthcare workers, teachers, or licensed contractors, a conviction can threaten a career built over decades. I understand how these outcomes can ripple through every part of your life and tailor my defense strategies to safeguard not only your case, but your livelihood and reputation.

My goal is to ensure that a single allegation does not define your future. Whether through dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing, I fight to limit the long-term effects of a drug case and help you move forward with stability and dignity.

Over 25 Years of Proven Legal Experience

Drug-related charges vary widely, from relatively minor misdemeanors to major felonies. In addition to this, drug-related charges mean different things to different people. While a misdemeanor possession charge may be a minor incident for one person, it could very well be life-changing for another.

Over more than two decades, I have represented clients facing a wide array of drug charges, including marijuana possession, cocaine distribution, methamphetamine manufacturing, and prescription medication-related offenses. Having practiced extensively in Newport Beach and greater Orange County, I have developed a strong understanding of how local judges and prosecutors approach these matters and what outcomes may be available. My familiarity with local court procedures allows me to offer strategic advice about plea negotiations, pretrial diversion options, or rehabilitation programs.

Why Choose Our Newport Beach Drug Crimes Lawyer

When your freedom and future are at stake, immediate action can make a difference in how your case unfolds. I provide the direct, informed representation that every person facing a drug-related charge deserves.

When you work with me, you can expect:

• Direct Access to Your Attorney. You work with me, Alan Castillo, throughout your case. I handle every aspect personally rather than passing your defense to an associate. This ensures consistent communication and focused representation from start to finish.
• Local Insight & Courtroom Experience. With extensive experience in Newport Beach and Orange County courts, I understand how local judges and prosecutors approach drug cases. This familiarity allows me to anticipate strategies, negotiate effectively, and identify opportunities that may not be immediately visible to others.
• Proactive Defense Strategies. I move quickly to review police reports, evaluate search procedures, and uncover potential rights violations. This includes examining enforcement actions near locations such as Fashion Island, local beaches, and other high-surveillance areas where procedural errors are common.
• 24/7 Accessibility & Clear Communication. I maintain open lines of communication and provide updates as your case progresses. You will never be left wondering about the next step or the status of your defense.

Schedule your free consultation by contacting me today at (949) 234-6525.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a drug arrest in Newport Beach?

Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not make statements to the police or attempt to explain your circumstances until you have spoken with a drug arrest attorney in Newport Beach. Request legal representation at the earliest opportunity. I offer prompt, direct communication so you are supported from the moment of your arrest through every step of the legal process.

Are there alternatives to jail for first-time drug offenders?

Yes, many first-time drug offenders may be eligible for alternatives to incarceration. Options often include pretrial diversion, participation in drug court, or completion of community-based treatment programs. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and your criminal record, as well as how your case is handled in court. As a drug crime lawyer, I work with clients to present the strongest possible case for diversion.

How can hiring a drug defense attorney help my case?

Choosing the right drug defense attorney in Orange County can have a major impact on your case’s outcome. As your legal advocate, I will investigate every step of your arrest, gather evidence to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s case, and challenge any mistakes or constitutional violations made by Newport Beach law enforcement. Because I am familiar with local prosecutors’ philosophies and the practices of area judges, I am well-positioned to negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or—  when needed — deliver strong trial advocacy.