Santa Rosa Drug Possession Attorney
Facing a drug charge in California can be daunting, especially given the potentially severe consequences of a conviction. In Sonoma County, a drug conviction can carry life-altering penalties. In addition to the immediate threat of incarceration and fines, a criminal record can result in numerous long-term repercussions. A drug conviction on your record can affect future employment opportunities, educational prospects, and even housing applications.
Whether you’re facing charges for simple possession or a more serious offense like drug trafficking or manufacturing, strong legal representation is paramount. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer like Amy Chapman by your side may make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Expungement for Drug Convictions in California
Under California Penal Code 1203.4 PC, you may seek to expunge a drug possession charge or conviction from your criminal record. This process involves withdrawing a guilty or no contest plea, re-entering a not guilty plea, and having the case dismissed. Expunging your record can alleviate many of the consequences of a conviction, such as having trouble finding employment due to the results of a background check.
Sonoma County drug charge lawyer Amy Chapman can evaluate your case, determine whether you are eligible for expungement, and help you take the necessary steps to clear your record and move on with your life after a drug conviction.
Drug Treatment Instead of Incarceration
California law provides for various diversion programs and alternative sentencing options, particularly for first-time offenders or those struggling with substance abuse disorders. These programs may include drug treatment instead of incarceration. They are designed to offer a path to rehabilitation rather than punishment. If these programs are available in your case, Amy can present compelling arguments to the court and ask them to consider options that focus on recovery and reintegration into society, so that you can get your life back on track.
Protecting Your Future
Amy Chapman’s extensive experience and deep understanding of drug laws allow her to build strong defenses that challenge various aspects of the prosecution’s case, such as the credibility of witnesses and the validity of the evidence presented.
Charges related to drug paraphernalia or being under the influence of a controlled substance also carry significant penalties. Even a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting effects. Amy Chapman takes a proactive approach that involves negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative resolutions that minimize the impact on your life.
The financial implications of a drug conviction can also be burdensome. In addition to fines, police may seize your personal property, vehicles, and cash if they believe these assets are linked to drug activity. Amy Chapman works tirelessly to protect her client’s assets from civil forfeiture actions.
If you or a loved one are facing drug charges in Sonoma County, securing strong legal representation is key. Amy Chapman is committed to protecting the rights of her clients and has a proven track record in drug crime defense. Contact the Law Office of Amy Chapman today at (866) 945-7464 to discuss your drug crime charges, including your legal rights and potential legal defenses.
The Law Office of Amy Chapman: Santa Rosa Drug Possession Attorney
It is my job to help alleviate your concerns and to pursue a defense strategy that is best for you and your family, and that ultimately protects your rights, your liberty, and your future.
As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I will leverage our knowledge of the law to help keep your record free of even a minor criminal offense and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.
The Law Office of Amy Chapman has offices in Santa Rosa, California and I am experienced in defending clients who have been charged with the possession of a variety of controlled substances covered under California’s Controlled Substance Act, including:
- Methamphetamine;
- Heroin;
- Cocaine;
- Hydrocodone;
- Oxycodone;
- More than 28.5 grams of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrated cannabis;
- Fentanyl; and
- Other prescription drugs possessed without a valid physician’s prescription.
The Penalties For Drug Possession in California
California statute HSC § 11350 makes it a crime to be in possession of a controlled substance without a valid physician’s prescription. Simple possession of a controlled substance is usually prosecuted as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up-to 12 months in jail.
However, if you have a prior conviction for a serious felony or sex offense, the same offense may be prosecuted as a felony, punishable by up to 3 years in prison.
Why Choose Us To Defend Your Drug Possession Charge?
- At the Law Office of Amy Chapman, I believe that each client that comes to our firm deserves the opportunity to have his or her case thoroughly examined.
- I offer many years of experience defending drug charges in California and remain constantly up-to-date with all the current developments in the law to ensure that I obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
- I not only understand the fundamentals and the mechanics of the California criminal justice system, but I also understand the importance of being articulate advocates. I work hard on behalf of our clients to preserve their rights and to convince others of their innocence.
Get An Experienced California Criminal Defense Attorney Involved Early
The fact that you are reading this page shows that you are serious about solving your legal problems and are looking for answers. So, the sooner you contact us, the sooner I can begin to help.
Seek counsel earlier enough, and I may able to convince the prosecuting attorney to either:
- Dismiss the charges against you;
- Reduce the charges; or
- Recommend alternative sentencing, such as a drug diversion program.
The choice is yours. Your freedom, your future and the future of those you care about may depend on it.
Contact an Experienced Santa Rosa Drug Possession Attorney
If you have been charged with drug possession or have drug possession charges pending in the Santa Rosa area, don’t delay. Call the Law Office of Amy Chapman at (707) 636-3207 to speak with a drug possession defense attorney. Alternatively, you can send me a message via our contact form day or night. Just leave me your contact details and some basic information about your legal problem (if you wish) and I will get back to you promptly.
