What happens when you're arrested for drug possession?
Being arrested for drug possession in the State of California can be a daunting experience. Here's a brief overview of what typically happens after an arrest:
BOOKING
Once you're arrested, you'll be taken to the jail of the county in which you were arrested for booking. During this process, your personal information is recorded, and you'll be fingerprinted and photographed. You'll also have your belongings confiscated, and a search will be conducted to ensure you're not carrying any contraband.
RECEIVING A COURT DATE
After booking, you'll be informed of your charges and given a court date. This is when you'll appear before a judge to hear the charges against you and enter a plea. It's crucial to have legal representation at this stage to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
BAIL SET BASED ON PRIORS
The judge will also set a bail amount, which is the money you must pay to be released from custody while awaiting trial. The bail amount is determined based on several factors, including the severity of the charges and your criminal history. If you have prior convictions, the bail amount may be higher.
why should i hire an attorney?
Regardless of how you feel about your case, hiring an attorney is a crucial step in navigating the legal process. When you have a lawyer by your side, you gain a professional perspective from someone who makes their living studying the law. Your attorney will know the ins and outs of courtroom procedure, arrest procedure, evidentiary procedure, as well as the text and interpretation of the law.
