Drug Convictions in Sacramento

Drug possession is seen as a serious offense in almost all parts of the world, and similarly, in California, possession of certain controlled substances is considered a crime in many cases. In addition to this, California law criminalizes the possession of specified ingredients or precursors that may be used for making certain illegal substances, such as PCP or methamphetamine. Certain substances, like marijuana, are legalized in the state of California for recreational as well as medicinal uses. However, this doesn’t mean the possession of marijuana will not incur criminal prosecution. Possession with the intention of selling incurs punishments, fines, probation, rehabilitation programs, and even long-term prison sentences. If you are accused of any drug crime, you need to hire an experienced California drug defense attorney.

In this blog, Nagra Law Firm P.C. will share detailed insights into drug convictions in Sacramento, California, some of the common definitions of the terms used in drug convictions, penalties, and some common defense strategies. So read this blog till the end without missing any parts.

What is Drug Trafficking?

In legal terms, drug trafficking means being in illegal possession of illegal, contraband ingredients and substances in large quantities. Under the definition of drug trafficking, activities such as transporting, distributing, selling, buying, cultivating, and manufacturing are included as well. The punishments for drug trafficking are serious and may attract a sentence ranging from two years to life without parole in a state or federal penitentiary. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may rid yourself of the charges levied against you by hiring a California drug crime lawyer.

What is the Meaning of Being in “Possession of Drugs”?

Possession of drugs occurs when drugs or contraband are found directly on you or near you, such as in your car or bedroom, where you have direct control over them. Possession of drugs is further categorized as actual or indirect. Actual possession occurs when contraband is found directly near you. Indirect drug possession means you may not have drugs immediately on you, but they are with people or at places that are under your immediate control.

An example of indirect drug possession is when you are driving the car and drugs are found in your boot or with a third person, and both of you intend to use or sell them. Some of the best lawyers for drug charges in Sacramento state that both actual and indirect possession of drugs may attract criminal charges. If you find yourself in a similar situation, you may contact an experienced law firm in Sacramento such as Nagra Law Firm P.C. for legal consultation, and the law firm may succeed in getting you relieved of the charges.

Penalties for Drug Possession in Sacramento

While most drug possession charges may result in felony charges, there may be times when the prosecuting attorney may be charged with a misdemeanor. The penalties often depend on the quantity and type of drug the defendant is caught possessing. Prison time is usually mandatory, and if there are added circumstances like repeated offenses, selling drugs to a minor, or having a firearm alongside drugs, then more years may be added to the sentence.

If addiction is the reason for possession of drugs, hiring a drug crime lawyer with expertise in dealing with drug convictions in Sacramento may help you convert your sentence to a rehabilitation program. If you are a first-time drug offender and an addict, then Mr. Nagra from Nagra Law Firm P.C. may be able to increase your eligibility chances for one or more of the following conditions:

Deferred Entry of Judgment

If a defendant pleads guilty and spends six months in a drug treatment program, remaining drug-free for more than 12 months, the charge may be dismissed.

Proposition 36

A California Department of Health professional will determine the level of drug treatment for one year and whether the defendant/convict needs to be inpatient, outpatient, or whether the defendant would benefit from a halfway house.

Drug Court

In this one-year drug program, counseling, random drug testing, judicial reviews, and participation in a 12-step program are included.

Some Common Defenses Used by Lawyers for Drug Possession

The defendant held a valid prescription, authorizing the possession of drugs. The defendant was unaware of the drug possessions and did not initially possess them. The defendant did not know that the substance possessed was contraband or illegal. The possession of drugs was temporary, intended for disposal. However, if the sole reason for disposal was to avoid detection, this defense may not apply. The quantity of drugs caught was so minimal that it was unusable. The drugs were seized illegally through a search. In such circumstances, the defendant may be guilty of possession, but since the evidence was obtained illegally, it must be excluded, and the prosecution may not be able to prove the case.

Mr. Nagra suggests that to determine the best defense for your particular situation, it is advisable to consult a drug conviction lawyer and develop a solid strategy. By hiring good lawyers for drug charges and discussing your charges and circumstances in detail, you may be able to utilize any of the above defenses and get rid of the charges.

How Do We Help at Nagra Law Firm P.C.?

At Nagra Law Firm in Sacramento, we have extensive experience handling various types of drug convictions. Mr. Nagra stands out as one of the most experienced drug lawyers in the Sacramento region. With his guidance and legal counseling, you can successfully fight against the charges or secure a reduction in sentence. We first understand the circumstances of your case, gather evidence to support the defense and present a strong argument before the court. If you or someone close to you is facing a drug conviction, take the first step towards resolving the situation by scheduling a free counseling session with Mr. Nagra.