Alternative Sentencing
Many California drug offenses are punishable with incarceration, but in
some cases it's possible to obtain alternative sentencing that can help
you avoid all or part of a jail sentence. Top California drug lawyers from
The Kavinoky Law Firm is well-versed in every type of alternative sentencing
and can help you to understand your options.
An evaluation by a qualified substance abuse expert may help persuade
the court that you and society could benefit far more from alternative
sentencing than from jail. The Kavinoky Law Firm includes an evaluation
by a top substance abuse experts in its retainer for all cases involving
drugs and alcohol.
Three types of sentence alternatives that may be available in California
drug cases are a deferred entry of judgment, or DEJ; Proposition 36; and
drug court. Each has its own requirements and merits, and what's available
to you will depend on the facts of your case.
A deferred entry of judgment , or DEJ, provides many defendants an excellent
outcome to their California drug cases. A defendant seeking a DEJ pleads
guilty to the drug offense and then is allowed to withdraw the guilty
plea 18 months later if certain requirements are met.
Proposition 36 mandates treatment rather than incarceration for certain
first- and second-offense low-level drug charges. Although Prop. 36 isn't
available to everyone, for many defendants it has provided a life-transforming
opportunity to get clean and seek freedom from active addiction.
Drug courts are another option that may be available in your jurisdiction.
Drug courts, which have been gaining in popularity over the past two
decades, also emphasize treatment over incarceration. Drug courts combine
intensive treatment and social services with strong oversight by a judge
to ensure that defendants are complying with program requirements.
If you're a non-violent offender charged with a California drug offense,
one of these alternative sentencing programs may offer a viable alternative
to a jail sentence. A skilled California drug lawyer from The Kavinoky
Law Firm is ready to review your case and explain your likely options.
Please contact experienced California drug lawyers today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS
for a free consultation.
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