Drug Possession

When you have been charged with possession or sales of marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine or other drugs illegally, it is crucial that you talk with a criminal attorney with experience defending cases in San Mateo County right away. At the Law Office of Matt Sullivan, we provide solid, effective legal representation for our clients. Unfortunately, many people think this is a minor offense; however, in the state of California possessing drugs for sale and being convicted can have serious and often life-altering repercussions. You could be eligible for drug diversion in a drug possession case, but you should still speak to an attorney to determine if you qualify. We will work with you to analyze your case, and determine if there are any grounds for reduction, potential grounds for dismissal like an illegal search or seizure, or seek out other mitigation.

If you were charged with drug sales or manufacturing, some of the penalties you may face if convicted include jail or prison time, substantial fines and a permanent criminal record. The fact is, your career, freedom, and future could be at risk. A criminal lawyer will protect your legal rights and freedom, working diligently to secure the best possible outcome for you.

A few of the drugs considered illegal include marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, methamphetamine, heroin, and even some prescription medications, including Valium, OxyContin, Vicodin, Percocet and Xanax. Illegal sales of prescription drugs is a crime that may be punished in much the same way as sales of illegal drugs. Another charge people face related to prescription drugs, is a variety of prescription drug fraud or forgery offenses. You must obtain the guidance of a criminal attorney who has defended cases in San Mateo County courts if you are facing prescription drug related charges.

Factors that may affect the sentencing you receive include the amount of drug possessed, and whether it is determined you intended to sell the drug or manufactured it. Aggravating factors can make things worse such as possession for sales of large quantities, or illegal weapons seized at the scene . A compassionate criminal lawyer will provide you with a solid, well prepared defense strategy should your case go to trial. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate to determine if your car or home may have been searched illegally, whether there is evidence that suggests the drugs were yours, or if perhaps you have a valid prescription. In the case of medical cannabis or use of marijuana for medical purposes other defenses may be available, including lawful possession and use.

One alternative that may work to your advantage is to participate in a drug diversion program, which may help to avoid a criminal record and jail time. If this is not an option in your situation, a criminal attorney will examine your drug charges and the police reports, making sure the police did not violate any of your rights (and determining if you have any viable legal motions to file) and seeking to protect you from harsh sentencing if you elect to plead guilty. If your case is one that should be taken to trial, and you elect to go to trial, we can handle that for you as well.

If you have been arrested for possession or sale of illegal or unlawful drugs in San Mateo County, contact the Law Office of Matt Sullivan today to discuss your legal matter.