It is possible to get drug possession charges dropped or reduced in CA, but it depends on the facts of the case and having the right legal help. If you are facing drug possession charges, our Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers will guide you through California’s complex legal system.
We will challenge weak evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for the most favorable result for you. In California, drug possession means having control of an illegal drug or a prescription drug without a valid prescription.
It does not matter if the drugs were in your pocket, car, home, or just nearby—you can still face serious charges. If you are facing charges, you can discuss your situation with us during a free consultation and find out how we can protect you and handle your case.
What Does it Mean to Get Criminal Charges Dropped or Reduced?
To fight your charges effectively, you need to know what it means for a case to be dropped or reduced. Each outcome can make a big difference in your future.
- When charges are dropped, it means the prosecutor decides to dismiss the case entirely.
- When charges are reduced, the prosecutor agrees to lower them to something less serious, like a felony to a misdemeanor
Getting charges dropped or reduced can mean less jail time, smaller fines, or even no criminal record. This is why it is important to fight drug possession charges as early as possible.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
How Drug Possession Charges Can Be Dropped or Reduced in California
These legal strategies can lead to dropped or reduced charges, depending on your case:
Showing Lack of Evidence
The prosecutor must prove that you had the drug and knew you had it. If they cannot do that, the case might be dismissed.
Challenging Illegal Search and Seizure
If the police searched you, your home, or your car without following the law, the court may throw out the evidence. Without evidence, the charges may be dropped.
Questioning the Handling of Evidence
Police must handle drug evidence carefully. If the drugs were lost, tampered with, or mixed up, the evidence might not be reliable enough for a case.
Proving You Did Not Know About the Drug
If you did not know the drugs were there—for example, if someone else left them in your car—you might be able to fight the charges.
Completing a Diversion Program
California offers drug diversion programs like PC 1000 or drug court. If you complete treatment and meet all conditions, your charges could be dismissed.
Negotiating a Plea Deal
A drug crimes attorney can sometimes work out a deal with the prosecutor to reduce the charges to a less serious offense with lighter penalties.
Common Legal Defenses for Drug Possession in California
A strong defense can make a big difference. Here are some defenses that might apply:
- Unlawful search: Police must follow rules under the Fourth Amendment. If they did not, the evidence may be thrown out.
- No knowledge: You did not know you had the drug.
- No possession: The drugs were not yours or were not under your control.
- Medical use: You had a valid prescription.
- Entrapment: Police pressured or tricked you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed.
Every case is different, so it is important to have a defense lawyer who can build the right defense for your situation.
Various Factors Can Affect Whether Your Charges Can Be Dropped or Reduced
Not every case will qualify for dropped or reduced charges. The outcome can depend on things like:
- The type and amount of drug involved.
- Your prior criminal history.
- Whether violence, weapons, or large amounts of cash were involved.
- Whether your rights were violated during the arrest.
An experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can review all these details to fight for the best possible result.
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What Happens if You Are an Undocumented Immigrant Facing Drug Possession Charges?
If you are an undocumented immigrant and get charged with drug possession in California, your situation can be even more serious.
Drug charges can lead to immigration consequences, like:
- Deportation (removal from the U.S.)
- Being barred from returning to the U.S.
- Losing the chance to apply for legal status or citizenship
Even a small drug possession case can create big problems for your future. That’s why it is important to fight the charges as hard as possible.
Our experienced immigration law violations lawyer in Los Angeles can:
- Try to get your charges dropped or reduced to avoid immigration problems.
- Look for ways to get you into a diversion program, which could protect your record.
- Work with immigration lawyers if needed to protect your rights.
If you are undocumented and living in the U.S., it is very important not to plead guilty without first talking to a lawyer who understands criminal law and immigration risks. The wrong move could hurt your ability to stay in the United States.
How Our Lawyer Can Help Fight Drug Possession Charges
Drug possession cases can be complicated legal matters. Prosecutors have a lot of power, so if you’re facing these charges, you could benefit from someone on your side who understands the system.
Our lawyer will:
- Listen to your account of events to understand what happened from your point of view.
- Review the police reports, videos, and evidence.
- Identify mistakes made by police or prosecutors.
- Build a defense based on the facts and the law.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a better outcome.
- Fight for you in court if necessary.
Without a strong defense, you could face harsh penalties that follow you for life. Having the right lawyer makes a huge difference.
We Can Work to Get Your Drug Possession Charges Dropped or Reduced in California
If you are wondering how to get drug possession charges dropped or reduced in CA, the experienced attorneys at Simmrin Law Group are ready to fight for you. For more than 20 years, we have defended thousands of clients across California.
Our criminal defense lawyers handle every part of your case, including gathering police reports, videos, texts, and any other evidence that could help. We do the research, prepare your defense, and are never afraid to take your case to trial.
Our team has handled more than 100 jury trials, including serious capital cases. Whether your case is in a California state court or a federal court anywhere in the United States, we will stand with you. Call today for your consultation and get the strong legal defense you deserve.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form