Being charged with a crime is a serious matter, regardless of what crime you are accused of committing. Still, some crimes are more punishing — and, thus, more serious — than others, and in this regard drug charges are especially severe. People who are accused of drug crimes often deal with massive penalties that seem arbitrary. Mandatory minimums may be involved in your case, depending on the circumstances.
If you are charged with a drug crime, there could be numerous circumstances involved in your case. Possession, distribution or intent to sell charges could be involved. You could also be accused of driving under the influence of drugs. Ultimately, any of these charges could be in relation to a Schedule I narcotic, meaning the jail time and penalties associated with your specific crime could be very severe.
No matter what your case entails, remember two things. The first is that with drug charges, a diversion program could be an option for you. Here in California, if you qualify, a diversion program could be used in lieu of jail time. These programs can vary, but they can truly be life-saving for many people.
The other thing to remember is that you need to get a lawyer as soon as possible when you are charged with a drug crime. Your lawyer can help you fight the case against you, and also alert you to some critical rights that you have. Without a lawyer, a person accused of a drug crime would be in a tough position.
