For more information about California’s alternative sentencing drug diversion program under Penal Code 1000, check out this article from the Simmrin Law Group.
The Simmrin Law Group can help you learn more about Penal Code 1000 in California. PC 1000 deals with California’s alternative sentencing drug diversion program. This program allows individuals accused of certain drug crimes to avoid a conviction by seeking treatment.
Individuals who complete the drug diversion program are not convicted of a criminal act. This makes the program very appealing to many people charged with drug crimes. Find out more about the uses of the drug diversion program by calling (310) 997-4688.
Basic Information About the Alternative Sentencing Drug Diversion Program
PC 1000 functions as a pretrial diversion in California. This means that individuals can seek this diversion before their criminal trial begins. However, this diversion usually begins after an initial arraignment hearing. At an arraignment hearing, an individual must plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest
As of 2018, individuals interested in a PC 1000 diversion can plead not guilty. If applicable, they can then enter into a drug diversion program. Upon official completion of the program, the court will drop their charges. Individuals who do not complete the program will face criminal charges and a jury trial.
Drug Offenses Eligible for the Pretrial Diversion Program
Not everyone accused of a drug crime in California can apply for the drug diversion program. However, individuals may be eligible for this program if they are accused of crimes such as:
- Possession of cannabis (marijuana)
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possess of methamphetamines
- Possess of substances used for “huffing”
Note that these are only examples of the drug crime charges that allow for a drug diversion program. Generally, individuals can get into the drug diversion program if they possess illicit substances for personal use.
We know that there are many different kinds of illicit substances in California. Individuals can join a drug diversion program if they are accused of possession of many of these drugs. This includes drugs like:
- Heroin and cocaine
- Peyote or marijuana
- Ecstasy or ketamine
- Hallucinogens and methamphetamines
Individuals can even get into a drug diversion program if they are found in possession of certain prescription medications. The Simmrin Law Group can assess drug charges to determine if a PC 1000 diversion will work. Find out more by calling (310) 997-4688.
Further Restrictions on the Drug Diversion Program in California
We’ve discussed some of the charges that can be resolved with a drug diversion program in California. However, not everyone accused of these crimes can join a drug diversion program. The court can refuse entry into a program if an individual:
- Was convicted of certain other drug crimes within the last five years
- Threatened violence or used violence during the commission of a drug crime
- Has other drug offense violations
- Has past felony convictions on their record
Note that the prosecution often determines eligibility for entry into a drug diversion program. The prosecutor will notify the defendant if they are able to join this program. The notice from the prosecutor will be in writing and it will explain the rules associated with the drug diversion program.
Regulations for a PC 1000 Alternative Sentencing Program
There are a number of regulations on drug diversion programs in California. Generally, these programs last from 12 to 18 months. While in the program, individuals are often asked to take drug tests. These tests are usually handled through urinalysis.
Failure on a drug test can lead to the end of the drug diversion program. Individuals who fail a test while in the program should not face additional criminal charges. However, they will face the initial charges that led to the drug diversion program.
Additionally, individuals often have to pay fees to take part in the drug diversion program. Fees can range from $100 to $1,000. The court often decides how much money the defendant has to pay towards the costs of the program.
Note that individuals can refuse a drug diversion program in California. In this situation, the case could proceed to trial. A drug crimes lawyer in Los Angeles could help if you are facing a criminal trial for the use of illicit substances.
Find Out More About Penal Code 1000 with a Lawyer
Get help understanding the alternative sentencing drug diversion program under Penal Code 1000 in California with the Simmrin Law Group. Our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles can also help you handle drug crime charges. Find out more by contacting us to get a free consultation.
You can reach us by calling (310) 997-4688. You can also fill out our online contact form.