In the state of California, it is illegal to use and possess illicit drugs. Possession is defined as the act of knowingly and intentionally having access to such drugs, particularly those drugs that have not been acquired with a valid prescription, and can involve either physical possession or constructive possession (having the ability and intent to use the drug). During criminal proceedings, it is the responsibility of the prosecution to prove that the individual being charged with drug possession did so with a clear understanding that the drugs were illegal and controlled substances, and that the individual had ready access to said controlled substances. However, one instance of possession is hardly indicative of extreme criminal behavior, and should therefore be rigorously defended against with the assistance of a skilled Newport Beach drug crime defense attorney.
For first time offenders, it is especially important to remember that past behavior is indicative of future behavior, and that a single discretion pertaining to drug possession will be examined in relation to past behavior. According to California state law, there are drug possession programs set in place to alleviate charges brought against an individual, essentially erasing the drug possession charge all together after successful completion of the program. In fact, California Penal Code 1000.4 explicitly states that “upon successful completion of a deferred entry of judgment program, the arrest upon which the judgment was deferred shall be deemed to have never occurred. Furthermore, if an individual accused of drug possession successfully completes such a program, and remains innocent of drug possession or any other infraction for a total of 18 months following the drug possession charge, then the case is dismissed completely.
While it may seem as though your case is minor enough that charges brought against you will not be terribly severe, it is still highly recommended that individuals charged with drug possession retain the services of an experienced Newport Beach drug crime lawyer who will work towards achieving the best possible outcome for the future of the accused. Drug charge convictions can be held against individuals when seeking employment, so it is vital that a proper defense be mounted right from the start. Failure to mount a strong defense can ultimately have ramifications that far outlast events that transpired in the court room, and can forever negatively impact an individual’s way of life.
Maltaise Cini, Attorney At Law, represents individuals who are facing drug crimes charges, particularly drug possession charges. For more information about how Maltaise Cini can potentially earn the best possible outcome given the circumstances of your arrest. An experienced Newport Beach drug possession defense attorney will protect your rights in a court of law.
Contact Maltaise Cini at her office today at (949) 660-1389 to discuss your Newport Beach drug possession charge.