California Lawyer for Marijuana Defendants
Many people think that marijuana has been more or less decriminalized, especially under California's medical marijuana laws. However, prosecutors can and do regularly charge people with marijuana crimes.
Whether you've been pulled over in a traffic stop and charged with simple marijuana possession or accused of a higher-level drug crime like distribution or importation, you need an experienced defense lawyer. I'm Jim Pokorny, a California attorney with more than 30 years of criminal defense experience. Contact me in San Diego for a free phone consultation.
Choosing an Appropriate Criminal Defense Strategy
The bulk of criminal marijuana charges involve allegations of possession or possession with intent to distribute. These charges can carry significant consequences, but in many cases — especially for first-time offenders — they can also be dismissed through diversion programs in which the charges are put on hold while the defendant participates in a rehab program.
An experienced lawyer will be able to explain which options are available to you considering your specific circumstances, and can advise you on your best opportunities for avoiding or reducing the most serious consequences of conviction.
There are a range of other criminal charges involving marijuana. Locally, one prominent charge is importation (smuggling across the border). If the amount in question is more than 100 pounds, federal prosecutors will often get involved. I am highly experienced at defending clients against all types of drug charges at the state and federal levels.
Helping People Accused of Misusing Medical Marijuana
Under California's Compassionate Use Act, people with valid prescriptions from qualified doctors cannot be prosecuted for possessing medical marijuana. However, some prosecutors can be aggressive about pursuing borderline cases. Common accusations include the following:
- Possession of more than a medically useful quantity
- Lack of a real medical condition sufficient to support a prescription
- Prescription forgery and fraud
I am highly conversant in the medical marijuana laws, and I work closely with qualified doctors to document my clients' side of the story. If you're being prosecuted for medical marijuana in California, don't hesitate to contact me.
