Let a Well-Versed Sonoma County Drug Crime Lawyer Help
When you have been charged with a drug crime in Sonoma, California, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Significant criminal charges may result from an alleged instance of possession or even the appearance of the intent to distribute. From that point forward, your entire life can feel like it is being turned upside down.
The Law Offices of Andres Rico, P.C. serves clients facing situations like this. Preserving our clients’ future and fighting for their rights is what we do every day. Our team of legal professionals takes a proactive approach to drug-related criminal cases. When a challenge arises, our Sonoma County drug crime lawyer will identify the issue and immediately look ahead to what comes next.
In Sonoma County, a drug charge can take you in a range of directions. It is possible to have those charges reduced or even dismissed. However, these options are not available to those who do not plan ahead. Contact an experienced Sonoma County drug crime lawyer today to start creating a strong defense against the loss of your freedom.
What Are the Different Types of Drug Crimes in Sonoma County?
The Law Offices of Andres Rico has the experience you need to defend your rights against a drug charge in Sonoma County. The state of California has a diverse set of laws regarding drug crimes. Here is an overview of the most common drug crimes encountered by our law practice:
- Drug Possession. In California, the laws on drug possession are those related to possession for personal use and possession with intent to sell. Personal possession charges would typically result in misdemeanor charges. On the other hand, possession with intent to sell is a felony and carries with it a potential prison sentence of up to five years
- Drug trafficking and distribution. Transporting and intending to sell drugs at scale is when trafficking and distribution charges tend to be made. When a person possesses more drugs than their personal use would allow for, or if materials (bags, scales, etc.) are found on a person or their property, it can be expected that trafficking and distribution charges may follow an arrest.
- Manufacturing or cultivation of drugs. Cannabis cultivation is strictly regulated by the State of California. An unlicensed cultivation operation, or a legal operation that exceeds the legal limit for total plants grown, may result in criminal charges.
In all these scenarios, the team at the Law Offices of Andres Rico puts pressure on the prosecutor’s office by closely examining law enforcement’s actions. If an illegal search of your property has occurred, you can argue that the evidence obtained should be inadmissible in a trial.
Contact a Sonoma County drug crime lawyer at the Law Offices of Andres Rico today for more information about how we can help you fight erroneous drug charges.
What Are Possible Defenses to a Drug-Related Criminal Charge in California?
The circumstances of a case will determine the defenses available to an accused person. An experienced Sonoma County drug crime lawyer knows which defenses are most effective in a particular case. Consider the following:
- An illegal search of your vehicle or home, when used as a defense, can be extremely effective. There is a range of circumstances under which an officer could have obtained evidence to substantiate a drug charge. However, the means by which the officer obtained the evidence is important. A Sonoma County drug crime lawyer knows how to analyze an arrest to determine if it was lawful.
- Testing mistakes and the failure to properly store evidence are a defense in California. Drug samples are typically sent to a laboratory for analysis. The drug must be analyzed to determine if it is laced with another substance. How evidence is stored relates to chain-of-custody issues. By arguing these defenses, you can challenge the prosecutor’s proof of the alleged drug crime.
Can I Avoid Jail Time Through a Diversion Program?
Possibly. Diversion programs in California give qualified individuals (usually first-time or low-level offenders) the opportunity to avoid jail by completing court-approved requirements. These may include attending counseling, receiving treatment, completing education programs, or performing community service. If completed successfully, the criminal charges against you will be dropped, so you won’t have to go to jail, and you can avoid a conviction on your record. Whether or not you qualify for diversion depends on what you were charged with, your criminal history, and what diversion programs are offered in Sonoma County. Your attorney can advise you on whether diversion is available in your situation and fight to get you into a diversion program if it is.
What is the Difference Between “Simple Possession” and “Possession for Sale”?
The intended use of a controlled substance will determine whether a Simple Possession crime is charged or its counterpart, Possession for Sale. Simple possession of a drug (marijuana, for instance) signifies the drug is for personal use. Compare this to possession for sale, which carries the implication of an intent to sell the drug.
How Does the “New” Proposition 36 Affect My Case?
Known as the “Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act,” Proposition 36 was passed by the California Legislature in November 2024. Harsher penalties and “Treatment-Mandated Felonies” for drug possession are the hallmarks of the new law. Specifically, if you have been charged with possession of a hard drug, such as fentanyl, and have two or more prior convictions for drug offenses, the new arrest may lead to you being charged with a “treatment-mandated felony.” Individuals in this situation are generally given the option to choose a court-approved treatment program or serve up to three years in state prison.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Andres Rico for Your Drug-Related Case?
The Law Offices of Andres Rico has the experience you need to defend against a drug charge. Skilled both at the negotiation table and in the courtroom, Mr. Rico takes the responsibility of serving our clients seriously. Every client we serve receives personalized attention and a strategy tailored to the specifics of their case.
For a free case review, please contact our office today. An attorney must be able to fight for their clients’ rights. At the Law Offices of Andres Rico, that is our assurance to each client we represent.