Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Drug Problems Still Not Answered

I have already been charged with possession of 3 grams of marijuana on school campus. im 16 years old in Poway (San Diego County), California

My biggest problem is that my family can't afford to hire an attorney

So i really dont know what to do.

All the advice i get is to hire an attorney, but im not able to.

is there anything else i can do?

i have already taken the steps to check into an out patient program and have decided to talk to recruiters to sign up to go into the marines when i turn 18, i will sign once i turn 17 in about a month.

i have also decided to do community service on my own to help my chances with my punishment.

what other steps should i take to show that i have made correct changes and to make my punishment less?


Asked on 7/20/09, 4:46 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Drug Problems Still Not Answered

If you can't afford to hire a lawyer the court will appoint one for you at public expense. Now stop trying to improvise a solution and let a professional help you.

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Answered on 7/20/09, 4:49 pm
Jay Leiderman Leiderman Devine LLP

Re: Drug Problems Still Not Answered

If you are being charged with 11357 (e) the statutory punishment is a $250.00 fine for a first offense.

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Answered on 7/20/09, 5:45 pm
Brian Dinday Law Offices of Brian R. Dinday

Re: Drug Problems Still Not Answered

You are doing well on this. You have the right idea. Let the public defender negotiate with the D.A. to drop the charges in exchange for your enlistment. You should avoid any adjudication of the offense.

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Answered on 7/20/09, 7:12 pm


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