If you have been charged with your first drug crime, you may have the option of avoiding having your drug charges made public through a diversion option. Under these circumstances, you may be able to have your records sealed after completing a probation period. However, you'll want to speak with an attorney over whether you are likely to qualify for this program.
Probation Before Judgment
The "probation before judgment" program is entirely at the discretion of the judge. With this program, you will be able to avoid having a criminal record, and this can make it much easier to secure employment.
Because it is entirely at the discretion of the judge, you will want to work closely with a drug possession lawyer to make sure that you persuade the judge that you deserve a second chance and that you are not a menace to society.
Common Defenses Against Drug Possession
You may be able to mount a defense that puts your drug charge in context. For example, you might be able to argue that the drugs did not belong to you. To accomplish this, you will need help from an experienced drug possession lawyer who can gather the facts of the case and persuade the judge that your charges should be reduced or dropped.
Your drug penalties can be much more severe if you are charged with possession with an intent to distribute. For this reason, you will want to do everything possible to prove that you had no intention to distribute.
Leave a good Impression
Being respectful toward the court will increase the odds that your judge will rule in your favor. How you present yourself matters, and you will also want to appear as if you are prepared when arriving in court. For this reason, you will want to be coached by a drug possession lawyer when fighting your case.
When You are Convicted of a Crime
If you are convicted of drug possession, you might be able to participate in probation and perform community service. By doing so, you will then be able to have your charges dismissed after participating in a drug and mental health court.
The drug court involves multiple drug treatments, and you will need to participate in several court dates. The mental health court will have you engage in mental health treatment in addition to receiving drug treatment.
For more information about working with a drug possession lawyer, contact a local law firm.
