Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

DEJ jurisdictional Transfer

Hi- My 19 yr old daughter went to LA from SC and while giving a friend of a friend a ride she was arrested for drug possession. She went to court (not bailed out) and received a DEJ which is a treatment program that she was to start within 5 days. Well, at the time of arrest she was coming home the next morning because she was homeless and living in her car. Crazy long story, anyway, she's home now and I've called and spoken to the LA DA and the only suggestion I was given is to write a letter to the judge asking for a jurisdictional transfer so that she can do the program at home in SC. She has no family or friends in LA. My question is in your professional opinion should we continue this route or have her fly back to LA for her next court which is 12/10/08 and explain the situation to the judge? My daughter had no record until this charge.

Thank you!


Asked on 10/22/08, 11:17 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: DEJ jurisdictional Transfer

There is a chance that her attorney could convince the LA court to allow her to do a drug program out of state, in addition to whatever other penalties are imposed. The court would have to approve of the drug program, and that's what you're going to pay the attorney to work out. If this is a misdemeanor charge, she can have an attorney appear, without her in court. If it is a felony, she must be in court at every appearance. Feel free to contact me if serious about getting counsel for this.

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Answered on 10/27/08, 1:59 pm
Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: DEJ jurisdictional Transfer

I really hate to put you through asking the question again, but you really need to ask a lawyer in CA your question. I am not the least bit familiar with the California legal process. I wish you and your daughter the best.

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Answered on 10/23/08, 9:25 am
Joshua Hale Hale Law Group

Re: DEJ jurisdictional Transfer

If your daughter is being charged with a misdemeanor, she could hire a CA lawyer like myself, which could go to court without her presence. This may be your best option.

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Answered on 10/23/08, 1:31 pm


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