Chico Drug Possession Attorney

Possession of a Controlled Substance

California law prohibits the possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription from a licensed physician. The type and amount of drug involved, as well as the circumstances surrounding the alleged possession, will determine the potential penalties for the offense. Drug possession charges can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.

What Is Considered a Misdemeanor Drug Possession in California?

Possession of a small amount of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is a misdemeanor in California. The penalties for misdemeanor drug possession can include:

• Up to one year in a county jail
• A fine of up to $1,000
• Probation
• Community service

A first-time misdemeanor drug possession conviction can result in a sentence of up to one year in a county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A second misdemeanor drug possession conviction can result in a jail sentence of up to two years and a fine of up to $2,000. If you are convicted of a third misdemeanor drug possession offense, you could face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.

What Is Considered a Felony Drug Possession in California?

Possession of a large amount of a controlled substance without a valid prescription is a felony in California. The penalties for felony drug possession can include:

• 16 months to three years in prison
• A fine of up to $20,000
• Probation
• Community service

If you are convicted of a felony drug possession offense, you can face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. You could also be required to pay restitution to any victims of the crime. A conviction of felony drug possession can also result in the loss of your right to vote, the loss of your professional license, and the loss of custody of your children.

How Does the Prosecutor Prove Possession in California?

In California, the prosecutor must prove that you knowingly possessed a controlled substance in order to obtain a conviction. The prosecution must show that you knew the substance was present and that you knew it was a controlled substance. The prosecutor may attempt to show that you were aware of the drug by proving that you had a large amount of cash on you, or that you were in a high-crime neighborhood. You may be able to defend against these charges by hiring a drug possession lawyer.

Why Should I Hire an Attorney for Drug Possession Charges?

Drug possession can result in serious penalties, including jail time and fines. If you are convicted, you could also be required to pay restitution to any victims of the crime. A conviction of felony drug possession can also result in the loss of your right to vote, the loss of your professional license, and the loss of custody of your children.

If you are facing drug possession charges, you need an attorney who is experienced in California drug possession law. A drug possession lawyer from Robert L. Marshall Attorney At Law can thoroughly review your case and help you understand your legal options. Our team can provide you with a free and confidential consultation to discuss your case and help you better understand your legal rights.

Contact a drug possession lawyer from Robert L. Marshall Attorney At Law today at (530) 212-7766 to discuss your options in a free consultation.