Drug Possession / Sales

Drug Crimes

Throughout his 15 years of experience as a Santa Cruz drug charges lawyer, John W. Thornton has defended many individuals against the following drug charges:

• Drug possession
• Drug possession for sale
• Transportation of drugs
• Narcotics sales
• Distribution or intent to distribute
• Drug trafficking
• Manufacturing
• Cultivation of marijuana

Choosing an experienced drug crimes lawyer is crucial. At John W. Thornton, Attorney at Law in Santa Cruz, California, attorney John Thornton is familiar with both California drug laws and Constitutional law, which protects individuals from unlawful arrests and illegal search and seizure. Constitutional violations can result in the exclusion of evidence and dismissal of your case.

In addition, attorney John Thornton will thoroughly research your case to determine whether or not you are eligible for drug treatment programs that are offered as alternatives to incarceration. Such programs include:

Deferred Entry of Judgment: Formerly known as Drug Diversion, this is a program consisting of 15 hours of group education and counseling to take place over a period of six months, and includes an assessment of drug and alcohol use. Lower-level drug offenders may plead guilty to their drug charges, complete the program, and then have their charges completely dropped from their criminal record.

Drug Court: A one-year long program in which non-violent drug offenders participate in daily counseling, random drug testing, and a weekly progress review before a Judge. Also, offenders must show proof of attendance at 12-step meetings. Upon completion, the initial drug charges can be dismissed.

Proposition 36: Drug treatment at a level to be determined by an expert from the Department of Health and the judge; a one-year course of treatment may result in a dismissal.

Santa Cruz drug charges lawyer John Thornton is also well-versed in medical marijuana defenses, including Californias Compassionate Use Act (Proposition 215).

If you are facing California criminal charges, call 831-426-5800 or contact Santa Cruz drug charges lawyer John W. Thornton in Santa Cruz, California for a thorough assessment of your case. For your convenience, John W. Thornton, Attorney at Law offers free initial consultations.

The Santa Cruz, California office of John W. Thornton, Attorney at Law provides skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense representation to residents of Santa Cruz County, including Santa Cruz, Aptos, Ben Lomond, Big Basin, Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Capitola, Corralitos, Davenport, Felton, Freedom, La Selva Beach, Las Lomas, Lompico, Los Gatos, Mount Hermon, Pajaro, Paradise Park, Rio del Mar, Royal Oaks, Scotts Valley, Seacliff, Seascape, Soquel and Watsonville.