Redwood City Drug Possession Attorney

Drug Possession in the Bay Area

In California, drug possession charges are generally split into two categories: Simple Possession and Possession with the Intent to Sell.

If you or a family member has been arrested and charged with drug possession, you may have many concerns, worries, and questions about:

• Your legal options
• The prosecution process
• The potential consequences of a drug possession conviction

Talk to a Bay Area drug possession attorney from the Law Offices of Shelley D. Dwyer as soon as possible. Attorney Dwyer can discuss your options relating to possession charges involving methamphetamine, marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or prescription drugs.

Is Drug Possession a Felony or Misdemeanor in California?

A drug possession charge can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony based on a variety of factors including the type of drug involved and the amount of the drug in question.

What are the Consequences of a Drug Possession Conviction?

The penalties for a drug possession conviction in California vary depending on the amount and type of the drug. Additional factors, such as having a criminal history or having a firearm in your possession at the time of the arrest, could also affect sentencing. Possible consequences of a drug possession conviction include:

• Fines
• Jail or prison time
• Probation
• Community service

Redwood City drug possession attorney Shelley D. Dwyer’s skills will benefit you from the moment you call, through negotiation and handling your case, to trial if that is in your best interest. Countless defenses are available in any trial, from search and seizure violations to simple lack of evidence.

What Are the Different Drug Classifications in California?

According to California Health & Safety Code § 11053-11058, controlled substances are organized into five categories, or "schedules." Schedule I substances are considered to be the most dangerous with Schedule V substances having a low potential for abuse but can still have dangerous side effects.

What is Classified as a Schedule I Controlled Substances in California?

According to § 11054, Schedule I controlled substances can include but are not limited to:

• Heroin
• PCP
• LSD
• Ecstasy
• Cocaine base

What is Classified as a Schedule II Controlled Substances in California?

According to § 11055, Schedule II controlled substances can include but are not limited to:

• Cocaine
• Morphine
• Amphetamine
• Methamphetamine
• Vicodin
• Percocet

What is Classified as a Schedule III Controlled Substances in California?

According to § 11056, Schedule III controlled substances can include but are not limited to:

• Ketamine
• Testosterone
• Anabolic steroids
• Certain codeine compounds

What is Classified as a Schedule IV Controlled Substances in California?

According to § 11057, Schedule IV controlled substances can include but are not limited to:

• Xanax
• Valium
• Ambien
• Ativan

What is Classified as a Schedule V Controlled Substances in California?

According to § 11058, Schedule V controlled substances can include but are not limited to:

• Various cough medicines with codeine

Alternatives to Traditional Drug Penalties

One way to convince a judge of your sincerity about changing your ways is to enroll in a treatment program. Any harm you have done in conjunction with possession and use of drugs should be remedied wherever possible. Diversion programs such as deferred entry of judgment (DEJ) and Prop 36 are intended to address the root of your problem and keep a criminal conviction off your record.

By identifying creative approaches and thinking outside the box, attorney Shelley D. Dwyer has won a wide variety of drug possession cases. Judges, juries, and even prosecutors can be convinced to see your side of the story but it is imperative you have an attorney who focuses on criminal defense and has decades of practical experience. Any sentence you receive should address your problems, not simply punish you unfairly.

Contact a Bay Area Drug Possession Attorney

If you have been accused of drug possession, drug sales, driving under the influence of drugs, or another drug crime in the San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in California, contact us to schedule a free initial consultation.