Fighting Drug Charges In Stockton And Beyond
Have you been charged with a misdemeanor or felony drug charge in Central California? To contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer about drug charges in California’s Central Valley, contact Bird & Van Dyke, Inc.
Our attorneys handle all drug charges, including:
- Drug possession
- Drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute
- Distribution and manufacture
- Misdemeanor and felony charges
To schedule a consultation with an attorney at our Stockton law office, call 209-507-0479.
The Attorney You Choose Is Important
If you are facing drug charges, it is important to retain a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights. Attorney Bird, a partner at our law firm, is a former prosecutor and public defender for San Joaquin County.
As a former prosecutor and public defender, Ms. Bird understands critical issues in drug cases. If retained to handle your case, Ms. Bird will seek the suppression of any evidence obtained in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights. She will move on to dismiss charges not supported by probable cause. She will negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf. If the prosecution is unwilling to make a reasonable offer, Ms. Bird will be fully prepared to argue your case at trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes
Here at Bird & Van Dyke, Inc., our clients often come to us with questions when facing drug crime allegations. Here are a few of the ones we see most often, along with quick answers to get you started as you explore your defense options.
What are the potential penalties if I’m convicted?
It depends on the specific charge. For instance, simple possession is often a misdemeanor but could still lead to up to 12 months in prison. Aggravating factors can escalate the charges and sentences, however. For example, someone arrested for selling drugs while in possession of illegal substances, drug paraphernalia, weapons and large amounts of cash may face serious felony charges. These can carry steep financial fines, meaning a person could owe tens of thousands of dollars and face years or even decades behind bars.
Will a conviction affect my employment or immigration status?
Yes, a conviction, especially on felony charges, can make it difficult to find employment, rent an apartment or apply for financial aid to attend college. It can also put your immigration status in jeopardy, as a green card or visa could be revoked. Felony crimes involving moral turpitude could even lead to deportation.
What is the process and timeline for a drug crime case?
You must attend a hearing, enter a plea, and then decide whether to proceed with a trial or accept a plea bargain. If convicted at trial, you will also need to attend a sentencing hearing. This entire process can take up to six months in California.
Are there any diversion programs or alternative sentencing options available?
In some cases, nonviolent first offenders are allowed to participate in the drug court program. This program places the individual into a monitored treatment plan. The goal is to help those who are in possession of drugs due to addiction issues. If the treatment is successful and they complete the program, they may avoid spending time behind bars.
How will a drug charge impact my record, and can it be expunged?
A felony charge remains on your record permanently. However, it is sometimes possible to expunge or seal these records. Even if the record isn’t erased, it may be sealed from employment background checks, making it easier to find a job and create a positive future.
Contact Us
If you are facing drug charges in Central California and need to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, contact Bird & Van Dyke, Inc. To contact an attorney at our firm, call 209-507-0479 or contact us by e-mail.