Can You Avoid Jail in Marijuana Drug Charges?
Posted on | January 12, 2012 | No Comments
If you have been arrested for or charged with a marijuana offense in California you may be worried and rightfully so. Society in general looks down on drug offenses and accordingly the laws regarding drug offenses can be harsh.
However, an experienced California drug charge defense attorney can provide several defense options. In a first offense drug charge you may be eligible to participate in a program that enables you to avoid incarceration such as:
• California Drug Court. Which is a program that lasts a minimum of one year, and involves participation in drug counseling, drug testing, 12-step programs, and court reviews. The program has specific goals and objectives aimed toward rehabilitation as opposed to incarceration.
• Proposition 36. The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act, also known as Proposition 36, was passed in 2000. The passage of Proposition 36 changed state law to allow first and second offenders of nonviolent, simple drug possession cases to receive treatment instead of incarceration. The program typically lasts for one year and the type of treatment you receive is determined by an expert from the Department of Health.
• Deferred Entry of Judgment. In a deferred judgment you are convicted of a crime, but the court gives you a second chance. After completing the terms of probation (fines, probation appointments, therapies, etc.) your conviction is removed from your record. However, if you violate the terms of your probation the court can order you to jail without any hearing because you have already pled guilty. Typically only individuals with no previous records are eligible for a deferred judgment.
A California drug crimes defense attorney can ensure your best defense
Facing any drug possession charge can be daunting. And having an experienced attorney on your side can ensure you receive the best defense available to you. Contact the Law Office of Lance Dacre online or call 707-534-1854 to discuss your marijuana drug charges case.
Tags: California drug charge defense attorney > California Drug Court > criminal charges california > criminal defense attorney > Criminal Defense Lawyer > criminal drug charges > criminal drug charges attorney > criminal drug charges attorney california > criminal law > Deferred Entry of Judgment > Deferred Entry of Judgment california > Drug Possession > Drug Possession attorney > Drug Possession attorney california > Marijuana Drug Charge > Marijuana Drug Charges > Proposition 36 > Proposition 36 california > Redlands Criminal Defense Attorney