Monterey Drug Crime Lawyers

Working to Secure the Best Possible Outcome for Our Clients

Drug cases make up some of the most common criminal charges in California. While our state might be viewed as more lenient than others, the fact remains that a conviction can carry heavy consequences in the Golden State. When someone has been arrested for allegedly committing these offenses, they may think they have no chance of having charges dismissed or being found not guilty. However, a Monterey drug crime lawyer may be able to assist.

At the Law Offices of William V. Pernik, our hard-working legal professionals are dedicated to securing positive outcomes and defending our client’s rights. We’ve seen the disastrous consequences that can occur when a person is convicted of drug crimes. Even when they’re able to avoid incarceration, a conviction can follow them for the rest of their life. Fortunately, this doesn’t necessarily have to be your reality. Let our drug charges attorneys in Monterey County review your case.

Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Are Potential Penalties for Drug Charges?

When a person has controlled substances in their possession, they may think the charges against them are straightforward. Unfortunately, this is very often not the case. There are literally dozens of potential charges — ranging from possession to trafficking — that a person could be brought up on. Depending on the circumstances of a person’s case, they could face anything from probation to more than a quarter century in prison (for those with prior offenses).

To understand the variations in potential penalties, it’s important to recognize the many drug offense categories in California:

• Possession of a controlled substance
• Possession of a controlled substance for sale
• Controlled substance sale, transportation for sale, etc.
• Paraphernalia possession
• Cocaine possession
• Ecstasy possession
• Marijuana cultivation
• Manufacturing of a controlled substance
• Driving under the influence of drugs
• Selling, transporting, or furnishing fake drugs
• Prescription forgery
• Drug trafficking
• Federal charges

While this list of criminal charges may seem extensive, it’s actually far from exhaustive. There are many drug crimes under California law, and if you’re facing any of them in Monterey County, your freedom and future could be at stake. The simple fact is that the criminal justice system is not on the side of the accused. That’s why you should seek out a dedicated legal advocate who will fight for you. That’s exactly what we offer at the Law Offices of William V. Pernik.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

Weren’t Drug Offenses Reduced Due to Proposition 47?

Proposition 47 was passed by California citizens in order to minimize jail time and other consequences for those facing charges of simple possession. From Santa Cruz to Pacific Grove and everywhere throughout our great state, eligible individuals could have their former convictions adjusted under the new law. Proposition 47 protected the rights of our citizens and ensured non-violent individuals could determine their own future without being weighed down by unfair convictions.

Unfortunately, not everyone was on board. While the police are tasked to serve and protect us, many were not happy with the passage of the new law. In some instances, this could result in violations of a person’s constitutional rights. However, police are extremely knowledgeable in their jobs and drug laws. This means they’re able to take many “borderline cases” — where quantities of prescription drugs and other substances may seem possessory in nature — and instead treat them as intent to sell.

This can take a simple marijuana possession charge and turn it into something far more serious. Unfortunately, the court will typically defer to the arresting officer’s judgment in these cases. This is another reason you shouldn’t make any decisions without first scheduling a free case review with our Monterey drug crime attorneys. Whether you’re facing drug possession or trafficking charges, we’re here to ensure you get a fair outcome.

Can Drug Treatment Programs Minimize Possible Sentences?

Imagine a situation where someone is charged with illegal possession of a narcotic. Prosecutors will often try to secure severe penalties — even if it’s a simple possession charge with no aggravating factors. However, judges are sometimes lenient. In many cases, our law firm has been able to help our clients avoid serious penalties — whether facing misdemeanor or felony charges — by making drug treatment programs part of their sentencing. In some cases, complete charge dismissal is possible.

Unfortunately, California drug charges are not necessarily the same for everyone — even those facing the exact same allegations. That’s because a person’s immigration status can be affected even if they complete a treatment program and are promised a dismissal by the prosecutor. This is one of the many reasons that anyone facing drug possession charges or other criminal accusations should consult with a criminal defense attorney before doing anything.

From plea deals to treatment programs, it’s often the case that outcomes can be far more serious than you’d expect. Contact our Monterey County drug crime lawyers today to discuss your options and ensure you’re making informed decisions. We may be able to help you avoid criminal penalties entirely — and if not, it’s possible that a drug treatment program may be all that you face.

Contact a Monterey Drug Crime Lawyer Today

When someone faces an arrest for drug charges, their future is literally in the balance. If you’ve been accused of a crime, it’s critical that you don’t speak to police or prosecutors. They’ll tell you that they only want to help. They’ll claim that their plea deal is a great offer and that if you don’t accept it, you’ll face even heavier penalties. The simple fact is that the police and the prosecuting attorney do not want you to have a criminal defense lawyer on your side. Make sure you don’t give them what they want.

At the Law Offices of William V. Pernik, our California law firm is committed to securing favorable outcomes for our clients. In some cases, we’re able to have charges dropped entirely due to insufficient evidence or constitutional violations. In other situations, it may be necessary to negotiate a plea deal in your drug case. However, having a trial lawyer on your side is also critical — because prosecutors will sometimes be more focused on making an example than actually securing justice.

Our Monterey drug crime lawyers know what you’re up against — and they’re ready to help. Contact us at (831) 480-9217 to schedule your free consultation.