There are a wide range of drug offenses of which someone could be accused. Some of the most common charges with which our attorneys have experience include simple possession, possession with the intent to distribute, transportation or sale of a controlled substance, and drug trafficking. All come with severe, long-term consequences, so any drug-related charge must be taken seriously.
If you have been charged with a crime involving controlled substances, we strongly recommend speaking with a knowledgeable Temecula drug lawyer as soon as possible. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has handled thousands of drug-related cases with a proven track record of success. We know how these cases are handled at the local level and could skillfully fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Simple Possession
In the state of California, it is unlawful to possess a controlled substance without a prescription. According to California Health and Safety Code 11350, a controlled substance is considered any drug listed on the state’s Schedule of Controlled Substances. These drugs include methamphetamines, Heroin, Cocaine, Xanax, oxycontin, hydrocodone, Vicodin, and LSD. Several defenses can be effective in a simple drug possession case. Some of these defense strategies include:
- The defendant had a valid prescription for the controlled substance in question.
- The controlled substance was found during an illegal search and seizure by law enforcement.
- The defendant was not aware they possessed a controlled substance.
- The substance in question was not a controlled substance.
- The controlled substance belonged to someone else.
An attorney in Temecula could determine what defense works best for a particular drug case.
What are Drug Diversion Programs?
The state’s pretrial diversion law, California Penal Code 1000 PC, allows individuals arrested on certain misdemeanor drug offenses, such as possession of a controlled substance, the opportunity to receive alternative sentencing. Defendants may have their charges dismissed if they successfully complete a court-appointed drug diversion program. If they complete the program and all of its requirements, the charges will be dropped, avoiding both jail time and a criminal record. A lawyer in Temecula could determine if you are eligible to complete the drug diversion program as an alternative to jail time in your case.
Proposition 47
Back in 2014, voters in California approved Proposition 47. The proposition reclassified lower-level drug crimes such as possession of a controlled substance from a felony to a misdemeanor. Prop 47 was implemented to address jail overcrowding by reducing the penalties for these crimes. Those serving time on certain felony charges can petition the court to have their conviction reduced to a misdemeanor, therefore decreasing the current terms of their sentence.
Hiring an Aggressive Temecula Drug Attorney
Having skilled and aggressive legal representation on your side can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case. If you have been charged with a controlled substance-related offense, it is in your best interest to consult with an aggressive Temecula drug lawyer.
Our seasoned defense attorneys have the experience and professional connections necessary to get you the best possible resolution to your case. We firmly believe that everyone is innocent until proven guilty and are committed to aggressively defending you against these charges. Contact our offices today for a free consultation. Our compassionate attorneys could explain your charges and the criminal justice process and develop an effective game plan to help get you the results you need.