On election night in 2014, Proposition 47 radically changed drug laws by reducing simple drug possession to misdemeanors only. Previously, possession of narcotics under Health and Safety Code Section 11377 (commonly methamphetamine) could be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony based on the prosecutor’s discretion. Cocaine and heroin, defined in Health and Safety Code Section 11350, could only be brought as a felony.  Possession of concentrated cannabis, formerly a misdemeanor or felony under Health and Safety Code Section 11357(a), was reduced to only a misdemeanor offense.

This new law does not apply to certain individuals who have a small set of prior convictions. Drug sales remains a felony only offense.

Contact The Law Offices of Ross Green for a free consultation on whether Proposition 47 applies to your case. Ross Green can be reached at rossgreenlaw.com or (650) 780 – 0707.

Aggressive Criminal Defense – Former Prosecutor Now on Your Side. Servicing Redwood City, San Mateo, San Francisco, Palo Alto and the Greater Bay Area.

In a sweeping change to the judicial system, Proposition 47 dramatically altered the landscape of felony sentencing. In general, all simple drug possession offenses (Health and Safety Code Sections 11377 and 11350) were reduced to misdemeanors. Additionally, all theft offenses where the value of the property taken is under $950 are now misdemeanors. Previously, these offenses were felonies carrying a maximum sentence of three years in jail.  This new sentencing scheme does not apply to those individuals who are sexual offenders or persons with particular prior offenses which are deemed serious or violent by the penal code.

If you or someone you know is facing drug or theft charges Redwood City, Palo Alto, San Jose, Oakland or the surrounding area? Call or e-mail The Law Offices of Ross Green for a free consultation.