Recent years have seen a heightened attention to – and an increase in – the prosecution and penalties for drug offenses. In light of California’s three-strike law, for example, mere possession of any type of drug carries the possibility of a sentence of 25 years to life. Even absent any concern over three-strike implications, individuals charged with drug offenses in California can face severe consequences, and thus need the kind of aggressive defense provided by the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower.

One of the first things we try to establish is whether there was probable cause to make an arrest in the first place, and whether specific procedures were followed in making a stop or arrest. Effective legal representation is also important because most people are not aware that, in addition to any sentence imposed by the Court, the DMV can suspend your driver’s license for six months if you plead guilty to possession of any drug. An alternative to license suspension is a one-day drug diversion class. Lengthier drug diversion programs offer an alternative to jail time and, upon successful completion, the charges are dismissed from the individual’s record altogether.

The decision on whether a drug offense is charged as a felony or a misdemeanor depends on the type of drug and the amount found in your possession. If you’re found with less than 28 grams of marijuana, for example, the case can be filed as a misdemeanor. In many cases, in fact, those charged with growing or selling any drug are not eligible for the drug diversion program – although effective legal representation can find ways around this provision as well.