Possession for Sale Defense in Van Nuys
Facing a California Drug Charge? Get Direct Access to Scott Spindel.
An accusation of possession for sale or transportation for sale can threaten your freedom, employment, professional license, immigration status, and family responsibilities. Drug trafficking is a broad description, not necessarily the charge listed on a California criminal complaint. Prosecutors may instead allege possession for sale, transportation for sale, selling, furnishing, or another offense based on the substance, quantity, packaging, money, communications, statements, and alleged movement involved.
Our firm handles drug crime and criminal defense matters. Scott Spindel has defended criminal cases in California courts since 1994. We examine the charge and evidence before advising you about police questioning, searches, court appearances, and other immediate decisions.
Call (818) 797-9212 to discuss your charges directly with our Van Nuys criminal defense firm.
Health & Safety Code Sections 11351 & 11352
California Health and Safety Code section 11351 addresses possession of certain controlled substances with the intent that they be sold. The prosecution generally must establish knowing possession or control, knowledge of the substance’s nature, a usable amount, and intent to sell.
California Health and Safety Code section 11352 covers conduct involving specified controlled substances, including sale, transportation for sale, furnishing, administering, or giving away. A transportation-for-sale allegation requires evidence connecting the substance’s movement to an intent to sell, not simply proof that it changed locations.
The distinction between these charges can depend on evidence such as:
- Possession or control: Where the substance was found and who allegedly had authority over the location, vehicle, container, or property.
- Intent to sell: Whether packaging, scales, cash, communications, surveillance, or statements indicate alleged sales activity rather than possession.
- Transportation: Why the substance allegedly moved and what evidence connects that movement to a proposed sale.
- Knowledge: Whether the accused knew the substance was present and understood its controlled character.
How We Evaluate the Prosecution’s Evidence
We review searches, seizures, police reports, and the circumstances surrounding the discovery of alleged drugs. This includes whether officers had lawful grounds for a stop, whether a warrant was valid and properly executed, and whether statements were obtained in accordance with constitutional protections.
Physical proximity alone doesn’t always establish knowing possession or control. We examine alleged ownership, access to the location, witness accounts, photographs, digital communications, financial records, testing, and the handling of the substance.
Chain of custody is the documented path evidence takes from seizure through storage, testing, and presentation in court. Gaps in that record, laboratory problems, conflicting accounts, or unsupported assumptions about packaging and cash may weaken the prosecution’s interpretation of the evidence.
Direct Representation From Scott Spindel
You work directly with Scott Spindel rather than being redirected to an associate unfamiliar with your circumstances. He personally handles communication and legal representation, providing one-on-one attention as the proceedings develop.
We explain the allegations, available evidence, upcoming hearings, and decisions that require your input. You receive clear guidance whether the charge is at arraignment, in motion practice, under negotiation, or being prepared for trial.
Preparing a Drug Charge for the Van Nuys Court
Van Nuys Courthouse West, which handles misdemeanor and felony criminal proceedings, is part of the Los Angeles Superior Court’s Northwest Judicial District. The assigned courthouse doesn’t determine the result. The filed charge, admissible evidence, procedural history, and available defenses remain central to preparation.
Proceedings may include arraignment, pretrial hearings, motions, negotiations, and trial, depending on their posture. We confirm court dates and release conditions, review the complaint and reports, and assess prosecution proposals in light of the evidence and your priorities.
We Fight For Our Clients
Hear What They Have To Say
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"Scott is a rock star – I highly recommend him"Through my company I have worked with thousands of attorneys over the last 19 years, and Scott Spindel stands out as one of the best. He cares about his clients, responds in a timely manner, is vigilant with his evaluation of evidence, is wildly smart, and is awesome in trial -- the jury loves him -- which is crucial for a successful defense attorney. With this amazing combination of skills and gifts, you will not find a better attorney to represent you.- David
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"Reassuring confidence."When I got my DUI I was in complete disarray. Between my family, business, and future, I was having trouble sleeping due to constant anxiety. Not only was I involved in an accident, but I had an extremely high BAC. Needless to say, I feared for the worst. After talking with 3 separate lawyers, I then met with Scott, who after 1 meeting I knew he was the right attorney for me. Not only did Scott manage to keep me out of jail, but he was also able to reduce my alcohol program from 9 months to 6 months which is rare for BAC as high as mine was. If you're having concerns, or questions about which attorney you should use, please meet with Scott. I promise you that he'll definitely not disappoint!- Jarrod
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"Excellent Service"After my second DUI in 5 years, I needed a lawyer. I hired Scott because he made me feel confident with my case and I was right in hiring him. He helped me throughout the whole process, allowed me to email him anytime with any questions, and reassured me when I needed it the most. He is a very educated man and did an excellent job handeling my case. I would recommend hiring Scott if you are ever caught in my kind of situation.- anonymous
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"Compassionate and Diligent!!!"Scott was so caring and supportive throughout the entire process. I thought my DUI was going to ruin things for my family and work but Scott got it dramatically reduced both in record and financially. Even though I made some mistakes in the process, Scott graciously corrected my mishaps and made everything virtually painless! He has also represented and coached others I know through some very harrowing legal situations with amazingly positive results.- Kristen
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"BEYOND GRATEFUL"I am beyond grateful with Mr. Scott Spindel for not only giving me peace of mind but answers to my questions in a time when I felt extremely anxious and overwhelmed. I happened to find him while browsing online and I am so glad that I did!!! He went out of his way to help me and made the necessary phone calls I needed regarding a matter even before knowing whether I would need legal counsel or not. Who do does that?! Scott did!! I hope his efforts don’t go about unnoticed I am truly amazed by how caring and helpful he was with me. I definitely will give him a call if I need an attorney down the road :) & would definitely recommend to anyone. Thank you so much Scott!!!- Nancy
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"CHARGES: FELON IN POSSESSION | DISPOSITION: SENTENCE REDUCED"I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything you have done for me. I know with my record I was very lucky to receive the deal that I got. There’s not too many lawyers that take the time out and really deal with their clients, but you have done a remarkable job. I just wish there were more lawyers like you. I just wanted to let you know that your work is appreciated.- A.K.
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"CHARGES: POSSESSION OF DRUGS FOR SALE | DISPOSITION: CASE DISMISSED – REFILED – CASE DISMISSED"Thank you for seeing Alex’s case through not only one victory but two! A skilled and dedicated attorney makes all the difference; certainly, no one can say that we do not know this first hand. Alex has truly benefitted from your level of expertise, which we can attest, is a cut above. We, therefore, wished to express our sincerest gratitude for your level of dedication to the case and your hard work. Scott, as a result of "this" experience, Alex has greatly matured. For one, his immediate goal to focus on his studies and to detach himself from the friends who are not of the best influence have resulted in his recent honor student status and his making more responsible, educated decisions. He also has become determined and focused on matters that are important to his growth as an individual; your belief in Alex and the work that you have done on his behalf played a significant role in myriad ways including a change in his depth of personal perspectives and character. Thank you again, Scott. You are truly skilled in every way an attorney can be to make a difference. We recommend you highly and deeply appreciate your counsel, advocacy and friendship.- C. & A.K.
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"CHARGES: DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE | DISPOSITION: CASE DISMISSED"All I can say is, thank you - thank you -thank you. Thank you for stopping your ski run on the side of the mountain in Idaho to discuss my case during our first phone conversation. Thank you for your professionalism. Thank you for being up-front and honest. Thank you for exceeding my expectations, and then some. THANK GOD for your knowledge of the law. Finally, thanks for just being a bro during these trying times. Hope to never need your services again, hehe.- DR. P.
