A civil judicial forfeiture proceeding is one type of asset forfeiture proceeding that an individual who has been involved in illegal marijuana-related activities may face. Asset forfeiture proceedings involve the government seizing an individual’s property (without offering compensation) that it believes is “reasonably connected” to the criminal activity, either as an aid in the activity or as a profit from the activity. A civil judicial forfeiture proceeding may be presented to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in one of three ways: by the seizing agency because the property seized must be forfeited judicially (as opposed to non-judicially), by the seizing agency because a claim and cost bond (an instrument used to contest an administrative forfeiture, which is a type of non-judicial forfeiture proceeding) has been filed for the property in an administrative forfeiture proceeding or prior to seizure if the investigating agency thinks that it must first obtain a warrant before seizing the property. There are certain rules that the seizing or investigating agency must follow when initiating this type of claim as well as certain rules that the U.S. Attorney must then follow when considering whether to proceed with the forfeiture, which is why it is so important for an individual accused of any marijuana-related offense to contact the skilled California criminal attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm who have an in-depth understanding of the rules and regulations that are involved in asset forfeiture and who therefore know how to best protect their client’s rights and assets.

Civil judicial forfeiture proceedings involve property that may not be forfeited non-judicially. This type of property, as it pertains to marijuana or other drug-related activities, may therefore include: (1) property that exceeds $500,000 in value and which is forfeitable pursuant to U.S. Customs procedures and is not a transporting vehicle (for marijuana, for example), an item that has been illegally imported or a monetary instrument (that is, any domestic or foreign money, traveler’s checks, stocks, checks, bank notes and money orders), (2) property that is forfeitable pursuant to IRS procedures that exceeds $100,000, (3) all real property (homes, buildings, etc.) regardless of its value, (4) all property that is lawfully forfeitable but doesn’t incorporate Customs laws or the Internal Revenue Code and (5) all property that has been contested by a claim and cost bond (which, again, is an instrument used to contest an administrative, non-judicial forfeiture proceeding).

When a complaint for a civil forfeiture is filed, the complaint must articulate exactly what property is being sought and how it is reasonably connected to the alleged illegal marijuana-related activity so that the property owner is able to immediately begin an investigation into the facts and is able to respond appropriately. The complaint should therefore contain the basis for the court’s jurisdiction (that is, the basis for the court’s authority), a description of the property, the place and date of the seizure, the seizing agency and the circumstances that justify the forfeiture. If these items aren’t specifically addressed or if the proper notice requirements aren’t given to the property owner, he or she may be entitled to either have the property returned or to be compensated for its value.

Defenses to a civil judicial forfeiture are numerous but only an experienced attorney will know when, which and how to most effectively present them. Examples include situations where the underlying crime that serves as the basis for the forfeiture never occurred, that all or part of the seized property had an independent innocent source and wasn’t used illegally, that “clean” money has been commingled with “dirty” money and that the clean money shouldn’t be subject to forfeiture or that the owner is an “innocent owner” and didn’t know about or had nothing to do with the illegal acts that gave rise to the forfeiture.

Civil judicial forfeiture proceedings are clearly technical and complex and require the skill of a qualified lawyer. For more information on asset forfeiture and to retain the best representation, contact the outstanding attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm today for a free consultation.

RICO Laws

There are a variety of laws that regulate and punish illegal marijuana-related activities. For example, local, state and federal authorities may use felony conspiracy laws to prosecute suspected persons and their business associates who knowingly participate in a scheme designed to violate the law, even if one of the suspected individual’s didn’t have any direct involvement in the manufacture or distribution of the marijuana. There are even specific federal variations on conspiracy laws that charge those who are suspected of participating in marijuana trafficking operations with the operation of a continuing criminal enterprise or with violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Federal and state racketeering (that is, carrying on illegal business activities that involve crimes), profiteering, and RICO (Racketeer-Influenced and Corrupt Organization) laws make it illegal for criminal organizations to profit from any otherwise legitimate business operations. Violations of these laws typically lead to the confiscation and seizure of the criminal organization’s legitimate enterprise assets and are typically used against known “organized crime” groups. The goal of these laws is to financially cripple the suspected operation by cutting off the sources of cash that support its ongoing criminal activity.

These RICO laws apply to the commission of two or more specific offenses that constitute a “pattern of racketeering activity” or to the collection of an “unlawful debt”. A “pattern of racketeering activity” requires at least two acts of racketeering activity, one of which occurred after October 5, 1970, and the last of which occurred within ten years (excluding any period of imprisonment) after the commission of a prior act of racketeering activity. “Unlawful debt” refers to debts that were incurred as a result of gambling activity. As a result, marijuana-related activities are usually prosecuted under RICO’s “pattern of racketeering activity’s” provisions.

RICO laws (as they apply to marijuana-related offenses) hold that it is illegal for anyone to receive any income from a pattern of racketeering activity or to use or invest any part of that income in the acquisition of any interest in or the establishment or operation of any enterprise which is engaged in or affects the activities of interstate or foreign commerce. The laws also hold that it is similarly illegal for anyone to acquire or maintain interest in such an enterprise or for an employee or associate of such an enterprise to conduct or participate in the conduct of that enterprise. Conspiring to violate any of these laws is also illegal under RICO.

Criminal penalties that face an individual convicted under RICO laws include substantial fines and a maximum 20 year prison sentence. In addition, the individual will be required to forfeit any interest in the enterprise and any property constituting or derived from any proceeds obtained from the racketeering activity. This property includes real property, tangible and intangible personal property and all rights, title and interest in any such property, regardless of its location. A temporary restraining order may also be filed by the government without notice or a hearing if no criminal charges have yet been filed against the property owner if the government demonstrates that there is reason to believe that the desired property would, in the event of a conviction, be subject to forfeiture and that giving notice will jeopardize the availability of the property for forfeiture.

Civil penalties that may be issued against an individual convicted of a RICO violation include orders to divest of any interest in any enterprise, restrictions on the individual’s future activities, orders to dissolve or reorganize the guilty enterprise and restitution to innocent parties. It should also be noted that a criminal conviction under these laws will prevent the accused from denying the allegations in a subsequent civil proceeding.

The rules that regulate RICO laws are specific and technical, which is why it is critical that an individual charged with a RICO violation immediately contacts an attorney who is well-versed in this area of the law. To learn more, contact the outstanding criminal attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm today for a free consultation.

Personal possession – types of possession

Possession of marijuana, also known as possession of marijuana for personal use, may be charged as either a misdemeanor or as a felony offense in California, depending on the quantity and type of the marijuana. The offense is proven if the prosecution can show that the accused exercised dominion and control over the marijuana, that he or she had knowledge of its presence and that he or she had knowledge of its narcotic character. “Dominion and control” refers specifically to how the accused possessed the marijuana, which can be established through physical (or actual) possession, constructive possession or joint possession, all of which may be proven through circumstantial evidence (that is, evidence that isn’t directly observed but is inferred from events or circumstances that surround it). It should be noted that whether the marijuana was actually “owned” by the accused is not the pivotal issue – the critical issue is whether or not he or she had “possession” of it. An experienced criminal defense lawyer who specializes in California drug crimes will have an in-depth understanding of these different types of possession and will further know how to successfully challenge them.

Physical (or actual) possession of marijuana for personal use refers to situations where the accused knowingly had the marijuana on his or her person. A person having a baggie of marijuana or a joint in his or her pocket would be examples of physical possession. Although there are many defenses that may apply to this type of possession, including medical marijuana use, temporary possession for disposal and illegal search and seizure, only a skilled California drug attorney will know how to effectively persuade a judge and jurors that they are legitimate under these circumstances.

Constructive possession of marijuana for personal use refers to situations where the marijuana was immediately accessible by the accused and he or she either had direct exercise and control over the drug or the right to control the drug (or the place in which it was found) either personally or through another person or persons. This type of possession would apply, for example, if a driver was stopped and marijuana was found in the center console of the car. While the driver wasn’t in actual or physical control of the drug, he or she could still legally be charged with possession, because one could infer that he or she knew the whereabouts of the drug and had the ability to access and control it. Lack of knowledge and illegal search and seizure will be the most likely defenses to a constructive possession case.

Joint control or possession of marijuana for personal use refers to situations where two or more people may possess the marijuana. An example of this is found in a case where an officer witnessed a group of men huddled together in an area known to be a hangout for marijuana smokers. When he approached, a paper sack containing marijuana was thrown into the air and the group scattered. Joint possession allowed the officer to reasonably conclude that the marijuana was commonly possessed by all members of the group. Entrapment, illegal search and seizure, lack of knowledge and temporary possession for disposal might be the defenses that would be argued against a joint possession offense.

In addition to those noted above, a criminal lawyer who regularly practices California drug crime defense will be readily familiar with all of the defenses that are applicable to “possession of marijuana for personal use” cases. To avoid the consequences that this offense carries, it is imperative for an individual accused of personal possession to hire a qualified attorney, seasoned in this technical and complex area of the law. The exceptional attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm stay on top of California’s drug laws. They receive ongoing education and training in everything related to drug offenses and are well prepared to effectively tackle any issue that comes their way. Contact them today for a free consultation and for the best representation.

Clandestine Drug Lab Charges

There are a number of criminal charges that can be filed in a California clandestine drug lab case, and nearly all of them carry extremely harsh repercussions that include prison time. However, it may be possible to successfully fight a California clandestine drug charge. A knowledgeable California drug defense lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm will do everything possible to fight for your rights and freedom, and safeguard you from the substantial consequences of a clandestine drug lab charge.

Although California’s clandestine lab laws can be applied to the manufacture of any drug, they are most commonly used to prosecute methamphetamine cookers. You can be charged in connection with a clandestine lab without ever having stepped foot in one — for example, it’s against the law to possess certain chemicals “with the intent to manufacture.” Many of the chemicals used in methamphetamine manufacturing are found in common household products and over-the-counter medications such as cold medicine.

California’s determinate sentencing laws spell out three possible sentences for felony charges — the lower, the middle and the upper term, expressed in months, or more typically, years. The sentence the judge hands down will depend on aggravating and mitigating factors — knowledge about the defendant that prompts the court to act with harshness or leniency.

These are the charges that can be filed in a California clandestine drug lab case:

Code Section Charge Sentence 11379.6 Manufacturing 3-5-7 plus $50,000 11383a,c Analogs (material similar in chemical composition to controlled substance) Punishment identical to that for the controlled substance 11401 Analogs (material similar in chemical composition to controlled substance) Punishment identical to that for the controlled substance 11100 Report to the DOJ transactions involving precursors, including P2P, methylamine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, saffrole, hydriotic acid and others Misdemeanor
If prior conviction for 11100,
16-2-3
11100(g)(3) Sell more than three packages containing (or more than nine grams total of) ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, norpsendoephedrine, or phenylpropanoline Misdemeanor 11104 11100 precursors sold with knowledge of intent to unlawfully manufacture 16-2-3 11104.5 Possession of glassware/apparatus with intent to unlawfully manufacture Misdemeanor 11105 False 11100 report or statement Misdemeanor, if prior 2-3-4 plus $100,000 fine 11107.1 Sale or purchase by individual of more than 8 oz. iodine or more than 4 oz. red phosphorus in a 30-day period Misdemeanor 11374.5 Disposal of hazardous substances by manufacturer of controlled substances Misdemeanor or 2-3-4 plus cleanup-cost-based penalty 25189 Civil penalties and costs for intentional or negligent disposal of hazardous waste 25189.6a Knowingly, recklessly treats, handles, disposes hazardous waste creating unreasonable risk of fire, injury etc. 16-2-3 25189.6b Knowingly place another in imminent danger while 25189.6a 3-6-9 PC182a1 Conspiracy to do any of the above Same as substantive charge

As the above charges and penalties demonstrate, the consequences of operating a clandestine lab in California are extremely harsh. However, it’s possible to mount an aggressive defense to California clandestine lab charges. If you’re accused of manufacturing drugs in California, a skilled defense lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm is ready to fight for your rights and your freedom. Please contact us today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS for a free consultation.

Clandestine Lab Weight Enhancements

California drug laws include serious repercussions for operating a clandestine lab, and these penalties can be substantially increased with sentencing enhancements. One possible sentencing enhancement in a California clandestine drug lab case is a weight enhancement. If you’re facing a clandestine lab charge, a skilled California defense attorneys from The Kavinoky Law Firm can help you understand your options and help you to plan an aggressive defense.

A weight enhancement in a California clandestine lab case can add many years to a prison sentence, so it’s critical to fight both the underlying drug charge and the sentencing enhancement. You cannot be punished for a sentencing enhancement if you aren’t convicted of the underlying drug charge. Also, your guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in the sentencing enhancement just as it must in the underlying drug charge, or you cannot be sentenced to the additional time.

These are the weight enhancements that can be filed in a California clandestine lab case:

Code section Enhancement Punishment 11379.8 More than three gallons/one pound
More than 10 gallons/three pounds
More than 25 gallons/10 pounds
More than 105 gallons/44 pounds

Add three years

Add five years

Add 10 years

Add 15 years

PC 1170.74 If 11377, 11378, 11379, 11379.6 and substance is crystalline form of meth, this is circumstance in aggravation for sentencing

Clearly, a California clandestine lab drug case can bring many years in prison, so it’s imperative to mount an aggressive defense to these charges. An experienced California drug lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm thoroughly understands how to fight a clandestine lab case. Please contact us today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS for a free consultation.

California Marijuana Laws

Marijuana cases in California involve many issues, defenses and sentencing alternatives. Marijuana-related charges can range anywhere from simple possession to manufacturing the drug to driving under its influence and include a variety of penalties, which may range from a mere $100 fine to years in the state prison, severe fines and the forfeiture of one’s assets. It is because the laws that regulate this specific area of practice are so numerous and complex that an individual who has been accused of any marijuana related offense must immediately contact an experienced California Cannabis Attorney who has mastered this area of the law and all of the defenses that are applicable to it.

The outstanding attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm are dedicated to protecting the rights of their clients charged with marijuana offenses and to helping them resolve their cases as quickly, inexpensively and favorably as possible. Because they keep current with all of the latest evidentiary rulings, political issues and trial strategies that are applicable to marijuana charges, they are always a leg-up on the competition, which provides their clients with a tremendous advantage over the criminal court process.

When charged with a marijuana-related offense in California, it is imperative that the accused hires a criminal attorney who understands all of the laws that regulate marijuana and its use. For example, although California has enacted two laws that legalize medical marijuana (Proposition 215 and SB 420), law enforcement is still quick to arrest an individual who tries to rely on this defense. When such is the case, only a skilled attorney who is well-versed in these laws will be able to quickly quash the case, knowing exactly which motions to file and how to immediately implement this defense.

Paraphernalia, the marijuana itself, references on cultivation, etc., often provide the prosecution with (what appears to be) devastating evidence to use against the accused. However, one of the benefits of hiring a lawyer who routinely practices California drug defense is that he or she knows how to most effectively challenge this type of evidence and will file and argue a motion to suppress the evidence, which, if granted, will typically force the prosecution to dismiss the charges.

Driving under the influence of marijuana (also known as driving under the influence of drugs or D.U.I.D.) also gives rise to many issues and possible defenses which are unique to this specific charge. Although most of the evidence that is used by the prosecution in this type of case is similar to an alcohol-related D.U.I., there are several differences in the ways that the evidence is used and defended, which is why retaining an attorney who is familiar with both marijuana cases and DUI cases is imperative.

California Marijuana and Drug Defense Attorneys

The exceptional California Cannabis Lawyers at The Kavinoky Law Firm pride themselves on their abilities to successfully negotiate plea bargains for their clients that allow their clients to participate in alternative sentencing options (which include diversion, sober living, rehabilitation and electronic monitoring) that replace jail or prison sentences. They maintain an excellent reputation with local prosecutors and judges, which is clearly reflected in their success rates. For the most trusted legal advice and for unparalleled representation, contact the firm today for a free consultation.

 

California Methamphetamine Lawyers

Methamphetamine — also known as meth, ice, crystal, crank, and dozens of other names — is one of the most addictive and abused drugs in the United States, and thousands of individuals are arrested and charged with using, possessing, selling and manufacturing it each year. Those who are convicted of a California methamphetamine charge can be punished with jail or prison and other repercussions.

Fortunately, it’s possible to fight a meth charge. If you’re facing a California methamphetamine charge, an experienced defense lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm is ready to review your case and begin working on an aggressive defense strategy.

Methamphetamine is a Schedule II drug under California Health & Safety Code section 11055 (d) (2). Under California law, using, possessing, selling, manufacturing, and possessing methamphetamine for sale are all against the law. There are numerous charges that can be brought in a California methamphetamine case.

If you were arrested on suspicion of manufacturing methamphetamine, you can also be charged with operating a clandestine lab. In addition to the substantial criminal repercussions that can be imposed after a conviction for running a clandestine lab, which include incarceration and heavy fines, you can also be forced to pay the costs of cleaning up the lab.

In addition, there are numerous sentencing enhancements that can significantly increase your punishment in a California methamphetamine case. These sentencing enhancements involve weight enhancements, prior convictions, firearms, locations, and minors. If the prosecutor proves both the underlying charge and the sentencing enhancement, these additional allegations can add years to a prison sentence in a California meth case.

Fortunately, it’s possible to mount an aggressive defense to a California methamphetamine charge. Your California defense lawyer will thoroughly analyze the case against you and explore the appropriate challenges, which may include a motion to suppress the evidence.

In some cases, your defense lawyer will involve a qualified substance abuse expert to determine whether untreated addiction may have contributed to your behavior. A recommendation from a substance abuse expert can lead to alternative sentencing such as a deferred entry of judgment, Prop. 36, or drug court.

A California methamphetamine charge carries extremely harsh repercussions, but it’s possible to aggressively fight the charges and obtain a favorable outcome. For answers to all of your questions about California meth laws and charges, please contact an experienced defense lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS for a free consultation.

Criminal forfeiture proceedings are a type of asset forfeiture proceeding that may be initiated against an individual who was involved in illegal marijuana-related activities. Asset forfeiture refers to the process by which the government seizes one’s property (without compensation) when it believes that the property was either used to aid in a criminal activity or was a profit from the illegal activity. Because the laws that regulate asset forfeiture are complex, defending a forfeiture action requires the skill and experience of an attorney who has truly mastered this area of the law.

Criminal forfeiture proceedings may be initiated against an individual in the district in which his or her alleged criminal activity took place. This means that property located outside the United States may still be subject to forfeiture under a criminal proceeding. A Criminal forfeiture will be a part of a convicted defendant’s sentence for certain crimes – as a result, one is only subject to this type of proceeding if he or she has been convicted for the charged offense.

Criminal forfeiture must first be authorized by federal law. If it is, it includes property that was wrongfully used or acquired during the offense for which the defendant was convicted and only applies to property in which he or she has an ownership – but not necessarily an exclusive – interest. This may apply to all types of real property (houses, buildings, etc. and any items – such as marijuana plants – that are growing on, affixed to or found on the land) and all types of personal property (including rights, privileges and interests or claims in stocks, etc.). The government may criminally forfeit property that was involved in or was a profit from the charged offense and may also forfeit any property that it can directly trace back to the illegal activity. It must be noted that simply because an individual has used or transferred his or her profits, proceeds or other property before his or her conviction, it will not prevent the government from reaching and forfeiting the full value of the illegal property, as it can collect the money from any assets still owned by the defendant.

Marijuana and other drug offenses are additionally regulated by their own specific statutes, which is why it is so important for an individual who may be subject to this type of proceeding to retain the legal services of an experienced lawyer. With respect to certain felony marijuana offenses, it is presumed that the government may forfeit property that it declares “drug proceeds” if it can prove by a “preponderance of the evidence” (which means that it was more likely than not) that the property was acquired during the period of the felony violation or within a reasonable time thereafter and that there was no likely source for that property other than the felony violation. In addition, any property that was either used or intended to be used in any manner to commit or aid in the commission of the underlying felony marijuana offense is also subject to criminal forfeiture. This is one area where criminal forfeiture is broader than civil judicial forfeiture proceedings, as there are more limited restrictions on what type of property may be forfeited under civil law.

Depending on which laws regulate the forfeiture proceedings, the government may be held to a preponderance of the evidence standard or a “reasonable doubt” standard – the highest under the law. As a result, it is critical that a savvy criminal attorney represents the accused who understands these different burdens of proof. In addition, if an individual has his or her assets seized, he or she may wish to appeal the decision, which also requires the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney. The exceptional attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm are here to help. They receive on-going training and education with respect to this specific area of the law and how it relates to their client’s marijuana cases, enabling them to effectively defend against an asset forfeiture proceeding. Contact them today for a free consultation and for unparalleled legal advice.

Drug rehabilitation

When charged with certain non-violent marijuana offenses that indicate that the accused could suffer from a drug addiction (such as possession of marijuana for personal use vs. possession of marijuana for sale), there may be ways for that individual to escape a jail or prison sentence by participating in a drug treatment program instead. The key to securing this type of alternative sentencing option is to hire a California criminal defense lawyer who specializes in marijuana defense and who therefore knows which offenses qualify for alternative sentencing and, more importantly, how to persuade a judge that this type of sentencing will better serve his or her client, the court system and society as a whole.

Drug rehabilitation is authorized by California’s Penal Code and allows an eligible individual to receive credit for anytime he or she spends in a rehabilitation facility against his or her jail/prison sentence and fine. The stay will be credited against the jail or prison sentence day for day, and if the stay exceeds the sentence that would have otherwise been imposed, the accused will receive at least $30 per day of credit towards the fine, based on the discretion of the court. Because those who qualify are typically viewed as having an addiction (which is considered a health issue and not simply a criminal issue), one’s stay in a drug rehabilitation facility may even be covered by one’s health insurance.

Rehabilitation may be ordered pursuant to a Proposition 36 sentence, as a part of a diversion sentence or in the form of sober living. There are differences, advantages and disadvantages that exist among all of these alternative sentencing options and only a skilled marijuana criminal attorney is qualified to explain them and to help his or her decide which type of program best serves his or her individual needs and goals.

Drug rehabilitation programs may be outpatient or residential, but only a live-in program will qualify for jail or prison credit (as opposed to, for example, weekly attendance at a 12-step program). Residential programs are often one of the most successful treatments for marijuana addiction, as the residents are removed from their otherwise tempting environment and from the pressures that may lead them to “get high,” allowing them to completely focus on their addiction. Many incorrectly believe that marijuana is a drug that one cannot become addicted to, however, those who have habitually used marijuana for a while form both physical and lifestyle addictions to the drug – addictions that a savvy attorney can convince the court that a live-in rehabilitation facility will better be able to address than any type of services that are offered in a county jail or state prison.

Typical live-in rehabilitation facilities offer a variety of programs, including individual and group counseling, education and 12-step programs. Residents are usually not allowed to leave the facility, as the treatment that takes place is intense and very closely supervised.

The outstanding, trusted and compassionate attorneys at The Kavinoky Law Firm focus on California marijuana defense and have mastered everything related to this area of the law. They are well versed in all of the alternative sentencing options that are available to those charged with certain marijuana offenses and will do their best to successfully negotiate plea bargains for their clients that include this type of sentencing, even if the original charged offense was one that is ineligible. They know and, more importantly, are able to articulate to judges and prosecutors why a rehabilitation program will give their clients a better chance of not repeating their same mistakes and why such a program will make them more productive, sober members of society. In order to secure the best representation from a firm that is dedicated to protecting the rights of their clients, contact The Kavinoky Law Firm today for a free consultation.

Registered Narcotics Offenders

Under California Health and Safety Code section 11590, anyone convicted of certain drug offenses is required to register as a narcotics offender. This is a confusing requirement to many California drug and narcotic offenders. Skilled California drug lawyers from The Kavinoky Law Firm can answer any questions you have about the requirement to register as a narcotics offender.

Anyone required to register as a narcotics offender under H&S 11590 must report to their local police station within 30 days of moving to a new area. The police will photograph and fingerprint you. You’re required to re-register any time you move. This requirement will remain in place for five years after your discharge from prison, jail or probation. Failure to register as a narcotics offender is a misdemeanor under H&S 11594.

Anyone convicted of the following California Health and Safety Code sections is required to register. 11350, 11351, 11351.5, 11352, 11353, 11353.5,
11353.7, 11354, 11355, 11357, 11358, 11359, 11360, 11361, 11363,
11366, 11366.5, 11366.6, 11368, 11370.1, 11378, 11378.5, 11379,
11379.5, 11379.6, 11380, 11380.5, 11383, or 11550, or subdivision (a)
of section 11377.

One way to avoid the requirement that you register as a narcotics offender is to obtain alternative sentencing that allows you to avoid a criminal record if you successfully complete a program. Another way is to enter a plea bargain that allows you to plead guilty to an offense that doesn’t require narcotics offender registration.

Of course, the best way to avoid the requirement of registering as a narcotics offender is to avoid getting convicted of a California drug offense in the first place. A skilled California drug lawyer from The Kavinoky Law Firm is well-versed in the latest defense strategies against narcotics charges. Please contact knowledgeable California drug lawyers today at 1.800.NO.CUFFS for a free consultation or fill out the following Free Drug Case Evaluation.