Ross Attorney Arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (CA Health and Safety Code 11364(a))

Last Modified: October 12, 2020
May 28, 2015 | Rabin Nabizadeh | Drugs

A 38-year-old client was surprised to see his own attorney accused of having an inactive license to practice law due to the fact that a warrant was out for his arrest.  The 48-year-old lawyer from Ross claims that the charges against him, related to identity theft and possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia (CA Health and Safety Code 11364(a)), are false and that he will soon be exonerated.  Oddly, the lawyer and his client were both forced to remain in custody for a time, in the same jail in San Mateo.  He further claims that he was not acting as his client’s attorney while in court, but only as a witness until another attorney could be found.  This, of course, may serve to be an unexpected moment of grace for his unwitting client.

This attorney exhibited a good amount of what some would call gall in showing up to court knowing that he would likely be brought to jail.  In particular, brings up the notion of ‘bench warrants,’ which are commonly issued in courts all across the nation.  A ‘bench warrant’s’ name comes from the fact that this is a kind of warrant issued ‘from the bench,’ or by a judge.  Bench warrants are quite different than other types of warrants, like arrest warrants or search warrants, because they are not issued in relation to any criminal act.

There are, however, many reasons why a bench warrant might be issued:  an individual may have neglected to pay a particular fine or other costs associated with the court; an individual may have failed to appear in court at the appropriately appointed time; or the individual may have ignored a court order, failing to participate or complete community service obligations, DUI classes, or pretty much anything else that the court has ordered and they have failed to follow through with.  Ignoring a bench warrant, even if it is issued for something as simple as failing to appear in court due to a traffic violation, can end in severe penalties.  For example, an individual could end up spending time in county jail or state prison, incur additional fines, or even have their driver’s license suspended.  It is thus important for anyone, including attorneys, who are often considered to be a respected extension of the justice system, to pay close attention to any bench warrants issued that concern them.

latest news

February 27, 2024
What to Do if You’ve Been Arrested for a DUI in San Jose
Being arrested for a DUI in San Jose, CA, can have severe penalties, potentially resulting in jail time, losing your driver's license, and other serious consequences. Here's what to do if facing a DUI conviction after being accused of driving over the legal limit and how a California DUI lawyer can help you resolve your case with [...]
February 25, 2024
What Happens When You Get a DUI?
Getting a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can be a stressful and life-changing event. It starts the moment a law enforcement officer suspects you've been drinking and driving. This can lead to being pulled over, undergoing a field sobriety test, and possibly being arrested. The consequences of a DUI arrest include legal action, potential jail [...]
February 6, 2024
What Can I Expect After Being Arrested for a DUI in San Jose?

Getting arrested for a DUI in San Jose can be a stressful and confusing experience. You might have many questions about what happens next and what you should do. Knowing the process and what to expect can help you navigate this challenging situation. It’s important to remember that a DUI arrest is severe, and the […]