From a Felony to a Misdemeanor – Saving Time and Money for Our State

There was a survey conducted on Monday April 11, 2011 by a professional polling firm which revealed that a strong majority of California voters believe the possession of a small amount of an illegal drug for personal use should be reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.

The poll was released by the Drug Policy Alliance along with the ACLU of Northern California in San Francisco and the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights in Oakland.

It was found that almost 75% of California voters who are likely to cast ballots in 2012 are believers of reducing the crime of possession for personal use down to a misdemeanor.

Nearly a quarter of the voters surveyed said Californians caught with a small amount of an illegal drug for personal use should not spend any time behind bars, while 27% said they should be locked up for less than three months. Just 8% suggested incarceration for a year or more.

A majority of voters also said California sends too many people to prison. And almost 75% agreed that in the midst of a budget crisis, the state should instead use the millions of dollars spent to imprison drug users on schools, healthcare and law enforcement.

Support for reducing drug possession penalties crosses party lines, drawing favor from substantial majorities of Democratic, Republican and nonpartisan voters. Most voters in every region of the state also back the change. Voters also indicated they are more inclined to reelect state lawmakers who vote to reduce the penalties for drug possession.

In any case, Californians don't want to waste money on incarcerating people for drug possession. They'd rather see that money go for something else.

People are starting to take a stance against throwing people into prison for situations that can be handled differently.

If you or a loved one is being charged with a drug offense such as use or possession  contact Hedding Law Firm for a FREE face to face consultation.

We have handled thousands of drug offense cases and have seen great results.

Our Criminal Defense Attorneys place every effort to gather and contest all the evidence presented against you to get you the best possible results.

Contact  Hedding Law Firm today and let's take control of your criminal matter.