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Substance Abuse Experts can help with DUI / DWI cases, drug cases, domestic violence cases and other criminal cases in California.

Proposition 36 diversion can keep California drug defendants out of jail. The offender must enter treatment as a term of probation. Prop. 36 is available even to those with a prior drug conviction.

Individuals arrested on drug charges in California often fear that jail is an unavoidable consequence, but there are many types of alternative sentencing available that can help the individual avoid incarceration. One such option is Proposition 36 diversion - the offender is allowed to enter a treatment program instead of jail. The skilled drug defense lawyers at the Kavinoky Law Firm are experienced in every aspect of Prop. 36 diversion and will fight hard to keep drug defendants out of jail.

Proposition 36 diversion is a complex process that is best navigated by a top criminal defense team that includes a skilled drug defense lawyer and a knowledgeable Substance Abuse Expert. The expert's thorough evaluation can establish whether the offender has a drug problem that would be better addressed by rehabilitation than incarceration.

Prop. 36 was approved overwhelmingly by California voters in 2000 to provide a chance for first- and second-time minor drug offenders to seek the type of treatment that isn't generally available in county jails.

Prop 36 won't leave the defendant with a completely clean slate, unlike a deferred entry of judgment, which allows first-time California drug offenders to have the conviction erased from their records once they complete the program. However, a residential treatment program or another form of rehabilitation is preferable to time spent in county jail in every way.

Not all drug offenders have a problem with controlled substances, but for those who do, Proposition 36 diversion can literally be a lifesaver. While in treatment, the offender will receive counseling, education, and attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings that will provide tools to address any drug dependency issues that may exist.

Prop. 36 diversion is only available to those accused of relatively minor drug crimes, such as simple possession or being under the influence. However, even drug offenders who are ineligible for Proposition 36 or a deferred entry of judgment may be able to avoid jail through other types of alternative sentencing. Electronic monitoring, residential treatment, drug court or informal diversion may all be options.

For those who are eligible, Proposition 36 diversion provides an excellent opportunity to put a California drug arrest into the past and make a fresh start. The top defense attorneys and skilled Substance Abuse Experts at the Kavinoky Law Firm have made Prop 36 diversion a reality for countless California drug defendants. An experienced defense lawyer can answer any questions about Proposition 36 or other sentencing alternatives during a free consultation.