Drug offenses include, but are not limited to: Under the Influence; Possession of Narcotics; Transportation of Narcotics; Possess Methamphetamine; Possession of Paraphernalia; Sales of Narcotics; Possession for Sale; Manufacturing Controlled Substance. These are main examples, but of course there are many other drug related offenses on the books. Competent representation can help you avoid jail time and combat the system which is stacked against people charged with drug offenses and the additional charges which stem from them.
Do not make the mistake of thinking that because you were in possession of drugs at the time of arrest you should just plead guilty. When represented at these hearings an attorney can arrange a plea-negotiation which will drastically limit the penalties that may be imposed. Experience in these cases and the courtrooms in the area are invaluable in any plea negotiations or trial preparation.
Regardless of whether you are charged with simple possession, possession for sale, transportation/distribution or manufacturing of drugs, an issue that is always a factor is the manner in which the drugs were obtained by the police. Criminal drug cases result from a variety of factual situations ranging from simple traffic stops or sophisticated undercover police sting operations to information obtained by way of a confidential police informant and search warrants. Often police violate a person’s constitutional rights in an effort to find drugs. Whatever the case, challenging the search for and seizure of the drugs is essential to any successful criminal drug case defense and must be done in every instance where appropriate. We fight to protect your constitutional 4th Amendment Rights!
Fortunately, in California, non-violent drug users have the opportunity to avoid jail sentences and, in some instances, have their cases dismissed through participation in court ordered drug treatment programs.