Drug Crime Defense Lawyer in Stockton, CA

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.

Penalties And Consequences Of Drug Charges

Drug charge penalties depend on the type and amount of substance involved, your prior criminal history and whether charges are filed at the state or federal level.

At the state level, simple possession may result in misdemeanor charges with up to one year in county jail. However, possession with intent to distribute, manufacturing or trafficking elevates the charge to a felony. Felony convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences and higher fines.

Federal drug charges involve mandatory minimum sentences that judges cannot reduce.

Other consequences include:

• Employers run background checks. Many jobs disappear the moment a drug felony shows up.
• Your driver’s license can be suspended, even if no car was involved in your charge.
• Professional licenses can be revoked.
• Immigration status may be at risk because a single conviction can trigger deportation proceedings.
• Federal student aid can become unavailable for years.

These losses follow you long after any jail time ends. That is why having the right defense from the beginning matters so much.

What To Do After Being Arrested

If you have been arrested on drug charges:

• Stay silent: You have the right to remain silent. Use it because anything you say can be used against you in court.
• Request an attorney: Ask for a lawyer immediately and repeatedly until one is provided.
• Document everything: Write down details about your arrest, including officer names, badge numbers and what was said.
• Preserve evidence: Keep receipts, text messages or any materials that support your version of events.
• Avoid making statements: Do not try to explain yourself to officers, even if you believe it will help.

The sooner we have your case, the sooner we can protect your rights.

Why Bird & Van Dyke, Inc., For Drug Charges Defense?

Our Stockton firm gives you personal, one-on-one attention. Ms. Bird spent years as a prosecutor and public defender right here in San Joaquin County. She knows exactly how prosecutors build drug cases and how to tear them apart.

Our results speak for themselves. We have defended everything from simple possession to federal trafficking cases. We live and work in the Central Valley, appear in these courts every week and know the players.

If we take your case, Ms. Bird will fight to suppress illegal evidence, move to dismiss weak charges, negotiate hard and take the case to trial if needed.

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.