California Drug Court
If you have been charged with a nonviolent drug crime in California, you may be able to have your charges dismissed. Some defendants charged with nonviolent drug crimes are eligible for a California program known as “drug court”, which involves a voluntary process for someone with drug charges to go through treatment rather than incarceration or other punishment. California drug court is an option for those charged with either misdemeanors or felonies, and it is most likely to be granted to someone charged with:
- Drug possession
- Marijuana possession
- Being under the influence of drugs
However, some defendants with higher-level charges can still be eligible for drug court, particularly after a plea deal with the prosecution. These more serious charges can include:
- Drug possession with intention to sell
- Transportation or sale of drugs
- Lower-level offenses with prior criminal charges
If the defendant is accepted into drug court, they must obey all court orders and fulfill all conditions of the program to avoid jail or prison time. The court monitors the defendant’s program. The process of having one’s drug charges dismissed could include individual and/or group therapy, routine drug testing, or counseling. Drug court judges use “graduated sanctions and rewards”, which is a carrots-and-sticks approach to monitoring the program. If the participant follows the direction of the court, they could have their court appearances reduced or even graduate from the program early. However, the judge can punish bad behavior with reprimands, community service, or expulsion from the program.
If you have been charged with a drug-related crime and need legal assistance, 4criminaldefense is here to fight on your behalf. Call (818) 783-5700 for a FREE consultation, and we can discuss your case.
Email Mr. Vallens directly at: jvv@4criminaldefense.com or visit our sites for more info:
www.4criminaldefense.com and www.westlakecriminaldefense.com