Drug charges
Being accused of a drug-related offense is common in our society today. Local, state and federal governments pour billions of dollars into the notion of a “war on drugs,” often raising serious questions about a person’s right to be free from unlawful search and seizure.
If you have a reasonable expectation of privacy and the police unlawfully invade or interfere with that right, a strong case for suppression or dismissal may be possible, depending on the circumstances.
Building an aggressive defense
With the right lawyer, an aggressive and effective legal defense to a California drug charge is possible. An experienced attorney can thoroughly analyze your case and determine the most effective strategy to challenge the charges against you.
Whether the charge is possession, sales, or another allegation involving methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, PCP, or another controlled substance, the evidence should be thoroughly reviewed and challenged where appropriate.
Consequences and strategy
A drug conviction can carry harsh punishment, including fines, asset forfeiture, registration requirements, jail, or prison. Some drug cases should be taken to trial, while others may be favorably resolved through negotiation or alternative sentencing. The right strategy depends on the facts of the case.
Alternative sentencing regarding drug charges
Drug offenses are punishable with incarceration, but in some cases it may be possible to obtain alternative sentencing that can help avoid all or part of a jail sentence. An evaluation by a qualified substance-abuse expert may help show the court that the client and society could benefit more from treatment than incarceration.
Three forms of sentence alternatives discussed on the archived page were deferred entry of judgment, Proposition 36, and drug court. Each has its own requirements and merits, and availability depends on the facts and current law.
Deferred entry of judgment
Deferred entry of judgment may provide an alternative outcome in qualifying drug cases. The archived page described a process in which a defendant enters a plea and may later seek to withdraw it after satisfying program requirements.
Proposition 36
The archived page described Proposition 36 as emphasizing treatment rather than incarceration for certain qualifying, lower-level drug cases. Eligibility is case-specific and governed by current law.
Drug court
Drug courts combine treatment and social services with close oversight by a judge and probation to ensure that defendants comply with program requirements.
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Early intervention and vigorous preparation are crucial.
The Law Offices of Mark Anthony Raimondo are available 24/7 at 661-827-8000.