Possession of a Controlled Substance

Often times called "simple possession," this charge is filed when one is accused of possessing a usable amount of a controlled substance for personal use. The term 'useable amount' varies depending on what county and what courthouse charges are filed.  Downey, Long Beach and Norwalk may have a different standard for useable quantity than Westminster or Huntington Beach.  Common controlled substances that are the subject of criminal charges are methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, and heroin,

If convicted of simple possession in Downey, Norwalk, Long Beach or even in Orange County, there are many possible outcomes.  A criminal case could be filed as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the  type of controlled substance and the county of arrest .

If you've been charged with possession of a controlled substance, the good news is that California has adopted various drug diversion and treatment programs that may be available to you. You may even be able to keep a drug conviction off of your record altogether should you qualify for such a program and complete it successfully.

PC 1000 Drug Program

Programs like PC1000 is a deferred entry of judgment program (DEJ) in which the participant is ordered to attend probation approved classes.  Upon completion of the classes and satisfactory progress for the statutory period, the case is dismissed.

PROPOSTITION 36

Prop 36 for short is a formal program in which a guilty plea is taken up front and formal probation is orderd along with a drug treatment program instead of jail.  These programs regulated by the State of California and are designed specifically to encourage drug offenders to remain drug-free in order to obtain a dismissal of the charges.  These programs are available in all California courthouses, including Downey, Long Beach and Norwalk.

Private drug rehabilitation programs like NTS and the Salvation Army are intensive treatment programs that many courts consider to be highly successful   

Contact The Law Offices of Errol L. Cook & Associates today to discuss your particular case. Attorney  Cook has  years of experience handling drug cases and will be able to advise you of your rights, options, and how to properly proceed in court.