Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Based upon what you have told us, there does not seem to be sufficient evidence to convict you unless you actually did confess. Your lawyer may be able to get the case dismissed at your preliminary hearing. That assumes, though, that the officer will describe the arrest the same way you do.

They must be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you had the intent to engage in a narcotics transaction... to the exclusion of all other reasonable possibilities. I don't know what they think they have against you, but based on what you wrote, you do appear to have a good defense.

The specifics - time of day, your specific actions, the conduct of others, and even examining the officers' conduct for possible entrapment issues need to be explored with your attorney. I handle many cases out of Central Court in Santa Ana where your case is headed. Let me know if you want to set up a meeting to discuss further representation.

first, there is no preliminary hearing for a misdemeanor. I believe that the story you relayed is your defense coupled with evidence that you do not do drugs and the absence of a prior record of drug related offenses. The D.A. may dismiss this in the interests of justice on the grounds that they cannot meet their burden.