Facing a drug possession or sales charge in Rodeo can turn your life upside down in an instant. A stop on I-80, a roadside search, or an encounter near your neighborhood can quickly lead to police questioning, booking, and mounting fear about what comes next. California drug laws are complex, and Contra Costa County prosecutors take these cases seriously. At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we focus on protecting your record, your license, and your future while guiding you through every stage of the criminal court process.
Whether the allegation involves a small amount of drugs found in your car or an accusation of possession with intent to sell, the potential impact on employment, immigration, and family life is significant. Rodeo residents often feel pressured to accept the first offer from the district attorney, even when defenses may be available. Our firm helps clients understand their rights, assess the evidence, and pursue strategies aimed at reduced charges, diversion options, or dismissals whenever possible under California law.
Drug possession and sales accusations in Rodeo can lead to jail time, probation, heavy fines, and long-term consequences that go far beyond the courtroom. A conviction can affect background checks, professional licensing, college financial aid, and housing approvals. Working with a criminal defense law firm that regularly handles driving and drug offenses in Contra Costa County can help you navigate local court procedures, challenge questionable searches, and pursue alternatives to incarceration. The right defense strategy can protect your driving privileges, minimize penalties, and aim to keep your record as clean as possible.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm representing clients in Rodeo, Contra Costa County, and across nearby Alameda County. Over years of practice, the firm has handled a wide range of driving and drug cases, including simple possession, possession for sale, transportation, and prescription-related charges. Drawing on substantial time in local courts, we understand how judges, prosecutors, and probation departments approach drug offenses. Our approach emphasizes detailed investigation, aggressive motions, and clear communication so that clients always know what to expect at each stage of the case.
To make informed decisions about your case, you first need a clear understanding of what California law considers drug possession and drug sales. Police in Rodeo may arrest drivers after traffic stops, DUI investigations, or searches of a vehicle or home. The government must still prove that you knowingly possessed a controlled substance or intended to sell or distribute it. The difference between personal use and sales can hinge on details like packaging, scales, text messages, and cash. Knowing how these facts are interpreted in court can help guide your defense choices.
California’s drug laws separate simple possession from more serious offenses such as possession for sale, transportation, or sale of controlled substances. Some cases may qualify for programs like drug treatment or diversion, which can reduce or even avoid a conviction if completed successfully. In Contra Costa County, judges often weigh criminal history, the type and amount of substance, and any driving behavior involved when deciding on bail, offers, or sentences. A structured defense plan gives you the best chance to seek a favorable resolution tailored to your circumstances in Rodeo.
Drug possession in California generally involves having a controlled substance on your person, in your vehicle, or somewhere you control, while knowing both its presence and its unlawful nature. Drug sales charges, or possession with intent to sell, go further by alleging you planned to distribute the substance to others. Prosecutors in Rodeo may rely on factors such as the quantity of drugs, how they were packaged, notes or messages, and the presence of cash or paraphernalia to argue an intent to sell. Understanding these legal definitions is essential to evaluating your options.
Drug possession and sales cases in Rodeo typically turn on a few key questions: how the police discovered the substance, whether the search was lawful, whether the substance was actually controlled under California law, and whether the government can link it to you. The process usually involves an arrest, booking, arraignment, pretrial hearings, and potential motions to suppress evidence. Throughout this timeline, your defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge traffic stops, and explore treatment or diversion programs. Each step offers opportunities to protect your rights and limit the long-term impact.
Drug cases often involve technical terms that can feel confusing when you first enter the courthouse in Contra Costa County. Understanding these phrases can help you follow what is happening at each hearing and make informed decisions. Words like possession, intent, constructive control, diversion, and probable cause frequently appear in police reports and courtroom discussions. When you clearly understand this language, you are better prepared to communicate with your defense team, evaluate plea offers, and decide whether to challenge evidence or proceed to trial in your Rodeo case.
Simple possession refers to having a controlled substance for personal use rather than for sale or distribution. In a Rodeo traffic stop or investigation, this might mean a small amount of drugs found in a pocket, purse, or glove compartment. The prosecution must show you knew about the substance and that it was illegal. Simple possession charges can still carry consequences, but they may open the door to treatment, diversion, or reduced penalties. Carefully evaluating whether the evidence truly supports possession can be key to your defense.
Possession for sale involves an accusation that you held a controlled substance with the intention of selling or distributing it. In Rodeo, police and prosecutors often look at factors such as the amount seized, separate packaging, scales, pay-owe sheets, or text messages suggesting transactions. These cases are treated more harshly than simple possession and may threaten your freedom and livelihood. Challenging assumptions about intent and questioning the reliability of the evidence can make a significant difference in how your case is charged and resolved in Contra Costa County.
Constructive possession describes situations where drugs are not found directly on you but in a place prosecutors claim you controlled, such as a shared vehicle, trunk, or bedroom. In Rodeo, this can arise after a traffic stop with multiple passengers or a search of a home with several occupants. The government must show you had the right to control the area and knew the substance was there. These cases often allow strong defenses by highlighting shared access, unclear ownership, and lack of fingerprints or other direct links to the drugs.
Diversion and treatment programs are alternatives to traditional sentencing that may allow a person facing drug possession charges to complete counseling, classes, or rehabilitation in exchange for reduced penalties or dismissal. In Contra Costa County courts serving Rodeo, eligibility depends on factors such as the type of drug, prior record, and whether sales allegations are involved. Successful completion can help protect your record, employment opportunities, and immigration status. Understanding which diversion options exist and how to qualify for them is an important part of planning your defense strategy.
After an arrest for drug possession or sales in Rodeo, you may feel torn between quickly accepting a plea deal, fighting the charges at trial, or pursuing diversion. Each option carries risks and potential benefits. A limited approach might focus only on short-term consequences like avoiding jail, while a more comprehensive defense strategy looks at long-term effects on employment, immigration, and driving privileges. Reviewing the strength of the evidence, possible search issues, and available programs with a criminal defense attorney can help you choose a path that protects your future.
In some Rodeo cases, particularly those involving small amounts of drugs, no prior record, and no sales indicators, a limited approach may provide a practical solution. If the police reports show a clean search and the evidence is unlikely to be suppressed, focusing on obtaining diversion, treatment, or reduced charges can make sense. The priority becomes avoiding jail, minimizing fines, and protecting your record as much as possible. Even with a narrower strategy, you still benefit from guidance on court procedures, deadlines, and the long-term impact of any plea.
For some Rodeo residents, work schedules, family obligations, or immigration concerns may lead them to seek a quick, reliable solution rather than a lengthy court battle. If the charge is a first-time possession offense and the evidence appears strong, a limited strategy that targets a predictable outcome can be effective. This might involve negotiating a plea that preserves employment, protects a professional path, or supports continued schooling. Even then, careful review of paperwork and terms is necessary to avoid hidden consequences that could surface months or years later.
When Rodeo law enforcement alleges possession for sale or discovers a substantial quantity of drugs, the stakes rise dramatically. These cases can bring felony exposure, lengthy probation, and possible state prison time. A comprehensive approach becomes vital, including detailed review of body camera footage, lab reports, search warrants, and any confidential informant involvement. Challenging how the stop occurred, whether consent to search was valid, and whether the prosecution can truly prove an intent to sell can open the door to reduced charges or even dismissal.
If you have prior convictions, are on probation, or have immigration concerns, a comprehensive defense strategy in your Rodeo drug case is especially important. Certain drug offenses can trigger immigration consequences or probation violations that carry serious penalties. A thorough approach looks beyond the immediate charge and examines how any plea or conviction might affect your status, employment, and housing. This may involve creative negotiations, alternative plea structures, or motions to suppress evidence, all aimed at reaching an outcome that protects your long-term stability.
A comprehensive defense approach means more than just showing up at your Rodeo court dates. It involves investigating the traffic stop or police encounter, scrutinizing reports for inconsistencies, and considering how lab results, witness statements, and prior history affect your risk. By looking at the bigger picture, you retain flexibility to pursue motions challenging an unlawful search, negotiate favorable plea terms, or prepare for trial when necessary. This strategy helps safeguard your record and your future rather than focusing only on the immediate court outcome.
Comprehensive representation also creates space to consider alternative programs, treatment opportunities, or community-based solutions that judges in Contra Costa County may view positively. When your legal team can present a detailed story about your life, responsibilities, and progress, it can influence how prosecutors and courts respond. In many Rodeo drug possession and sales cases, this deeper preparation leads to improved offers, opportunities for reduced charges, or sentencing structures that maintain employment and family stability while still addressing the court’s concerns.
One of the main benefits of a comprehensive defense in a Rodeo drug case is the increased chance to reduce or dismiss charges. By examining every detail—from the legality of a traffic stop to whether officers actually had probable cause to search—your defense can uncover weaknesses that might otherwise go unnoticed. Filing motions to suppress, challenging the reliability of informants, or questioning the chain of custody for seized substances can significantly change the prosecutor’s position. This diligent approach often leads to better plea terms or even dropped counts.
Drug possession and sales charges in Rodeo can affect your life long after court ends if they remain on your record. A comprehensive defense strategy aims to preserve employment opportunities, protect professional paths, and guard your driving privileges whenever possible. By exploring expungement options, record-cleaning opportunities, and plea structures that limit long-term harm, your defense can help you move forward. This forward-looking approach recognizes that your case is not just about one court date; it is about your ability to build a secure future in California.
In the stressful moments after a traffic stop or arrest in Rodeo, it can be tempting to talk your way out of the situation. However, anything you say can be used in court and may limit your defense options later. Politely provide your basic information but avoid answering detailed questions about where you were going, who owns the drugs, or what you were doing. Clearly state that you want to speak with a lawyer before any questioning continues. Protecting your rights early can strongly influence the outcome of your case.
While your drug possession or sales case is pending in Contra Costa County, it is important to avoid new legal trouble and follow all court orders. Make every court appearance on time, comply with any drug testing conditions, and stay in touch with your lawyer and bondsman if you have one. Judges look closely at your behavior while the case is open. Demonstrating responsibility and cooperation can support arguments for reduced bail, diversion, or lighter sentencing. Staying on track also helps your defense team focus on challenging the evidence and protecting your future.
Drug charges in Rodeo can affect every aspect of your life, from your ability to drive to your chances of passing a background check. A conviction for possession or sales can impact housing applications, professional opportunities, and even family law matters. By hiring a criminal defense law firm that regularly appears in Contra Costa County courts, you gain guidance on local procedures, negotiation practices, and potential diversion programs. This helps you navigate a confusing system while working toward an outcome that protects your freedom and your future goals.
Many people try to handle drug cases on their own, only to discover later that the plea they accepted has unexpected consequences. Consulting with a Rodeo drug possession and sales lawyer allows you to understand the full picture before making choices. You can explore whether there are search issues, questions about who actually possessed the drugs, or possibilities for charge reductions. This informed approach helps you avoid rushed decisions and supports a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances, background, and priorities in California.
Rodeo residents face drug charges under many different circumstances. Some cases begin with a simple traffic stop on the freeway, while others grow out of a DUI investigation or a report of suspicious activity. Police may search a vehicle after claiming to smell marijuana, ask for consent to search, or rely on a warrant at a home. Items found during these encounters can lead to possession or sales allegations. Understanding the patterns that often appear in these cases can help you and your defense team identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s story.
A large number of Rodeo drug cases begin with traffic stops for speeding, lane changes, or equipment issues. Officers may claim to see contraband in plain view or assert they smell drugs coming from the vehicle. Passengers are sometimes searched, and the car may be examined with or without consent. The legality of the stop and any search is often central to the defense. If officers overstepped their authority, any drugs found might be excluded from evidence, which can greatly weaken the prosecution’s case and improve your negotiating position.
Some Rodeo drug possession and sales cases arise after neighbors, landlords, or anonymous callers report suspected activity to law enforcement. Police may conduct surveillance, seek a search warrant, or make contact at a residence. These situations can lead to constructive possession allegations when multiple people share a home or room. Challenging the basis for the warrant, the reliability of the information, and the accuracy of the reports becomes especially important. A careful review of the affidavit used to obtain the warrant can reveal shortcomings and opportunities for a strong defense.
Driving and drug offenses often overlap when police in Rodeo stop a vehicle for suspected DUI or erratic driving. During field sobriety tests or questioning, officers may see pills, powders, or paraphernalia and expand the investigation into drug possession or sales. These cases can involve both DUI and drug charges, increasing the potential consequences. Defense strategies may address whether there was a legal basis for the stop, how field tests were conducted, and whether any search exceeded legal limits. Effective handling of these issues can significantly influence the final outcome.
At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we understand how stressful a Rodeo drug possession or sales case can be for you and your family. You may be worried about work, your license, or immigration status while trying to keep up with court dates and paperwork. Our criminal defense law firm is committed to guiding you step by step, explaining your options in plain language, and keeping you informed about every development. From the first phone call to the final hearing, we stand by your side and work to protect your future.
Choosing a law firm for a drug possession or sales charge in Rodeo is an important decision. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense practice dedicated to protecting the rights of people accused of crimes in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. We bring extensive courtroom experience, a strong understanding of local procedures, and a commitment to thorough case preparation. Our approach emphasizes open communication, prompt responses to your questions, and careful attention to both immediate concerns and long-term consequences of any plea or verdict.
Clients who work with our firm benefit from a defense strategy tailored to their unique circumstances, whether the case involves a first-time possession allegation or a serious sales charge. We review every aspect of the stop, search, and arrest, and we are prepared to file motions when law enforcement oversteps legal boundaries. Our goal is to protect your record, your freedom, and your opportunities. When your future feels uncertain, having a dedicated criminal defense law firm in your corner can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
When you contact the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed about a Rodeo drug possession or sales case, we follow a clear and organized process designed to protect your rights from the start. We begin by listening carefully to your story, reviewing any paperwork you received, and identifying urgent issues such as upcoming court dates or bail concerns. From there, we obtain the police reports and body camera footage, analyze potential search problems, and develop a tailored defense strategy. Throughout the process, you stay informed and involved in key decisions.
The first step in handling your Rodeo drug possession or sales case is a thorough consultation and case evaluation. During this phase, we review the charges, discuss the circumstances of your arrest, and answer your immediate questions about what to expect. We also look at your background, employment, and any prior record, since those details can affect bail, offers, and sentencing. This initial meeting lays the groundwork for a defense strategy focused on your priorities, whether that means avoiding jail, protecting immigration status, or preserving future opportunities.
At the outset, we gather as much information as possible about your Rodeo arrest, including the location of the stop, the officers involved, and any witnesses present. We ask you to share documents such as citations, release papers, and court notices. It is equally important for us to understand your goals, concerns, and boundaries. Some clients prioritize a quick resolution, while others are willing to fight longer for the best possible outcome. Aligning your objectives with the legal landscape allows us to design a defense plan that truly fits your life.
Many clients feel overwhelmed by the terminology and deadlines that follow a drug arrest in Contra Costa County. During the first step, we carefully review each charge, explain the difference between possession and sales, and outline the potential range of outcomes. We also walk you through the court timeline, from arraignment to possible trial, so you know what each hearing means and what preparation is required. This clarity can reduce stress, help you make informed choices, and ensure you never feel in the dark about your Rodeo case.
After the initial evaluation, we move into the investigation and discovery phase of your Rodeo drug possession or sales case. We obtain police reports, body camera footage, lab results, and any available witness statements. Our team looks for inconsistencies, missing information, and possible constitutional violations. When appropriate, we file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legality of a traffic stop or search. This step is often where the strength of the prosecution’s case is truly tested, and it can lead to improved plea offers or outright dismissals.
A large part of defending Rodeo drug possession and sales cases involves scrutinizing how law enforcement behaved before, during, and after the stop. We examine whether there was valid probable cause, if any warrant was properly obtained, and whether consent to search was freely given or pressured. Any deviation from constitutional requirements can support a motion to suppress, which may keep certain evidence out of court. By carefully reviewing reports, videos, and witness statements, we identify opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s narrative and strengthen your defense.
Once we understand the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence in your Rodeo case, we begin strategic discussions with prosecutors. We may present mitigating details about your background, employment, or treatment efforts, along with legal arguments about search problems or constructive possession. This combination of factual and legal advocacy often leads to better offers, such as reduced charges, diversion, or alternative sentencing. Throughout these negotiations, we keep you informed, explain each option, and help you weigh the risks and benefits so you can make confident decisions.
The final step in your Rodeo drug possession or sales case involves resolving the charges through a negotiated plea, dismissal, or trial. If you choose to accept an offer, we carefully review every term and help prepare you for any sentencing hearing. When a trial is the best path, we present your defense to a judge or jury and challenge the prosecution’s case at every stage. After resolution, we discuss options for record clearing, expungement, or future relief, so you can move forward with greater stability and peace of mind.
Deciding whether to accept a plea or proceed to trial is one of the most significant choices in any Rodeo drug case. We help you understand the offer on the table, the potential sentence after trial, and the strength of the evidence. Together, we evaluate witness credibility, search issues, and how a jury may view your story. Our goal is not to pressure you but to provide clear, realistic guidance so that whatever path you choose, you do so with full awareness of the risks and opportunities involved.
Even when a Rodeo drug case ends in a plea or conviction, there is still important work to do to protect your future. We present mitigating information at sentencing, such as employment, education, and treatment participation, to seek the most favorable terms possible. We also explain your probation conditions, how to avoid violations, and opportunities to shorten probation or clear your record down the line. By planning ahead, you can complete your obligations efficiently and take steps toward rebuilding stability after a challenging chapter in your life.
If you are arrested for drug possession in Rodeo, stay calm and avoid arguing with officers at the scene. Provide your basic identifying information, but do not volunteer details about the drugs, your activities, or who they belong to. Clearly state that you wish to remain silent and want to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. This protects your rights and helps prevent statements that could be used against you later in court. As soon as possible, contact a criminal defense law firm familiar with Contra Costa County courts. Bring any paperwork you received, including citations and release documents, to your first meeting. Write down everything you remember about the stop, search, and arrest while it is still fresh in your mind. Early legal guidance allows you to avoid missteps, understand upcoming court dates, and begin building a strategy to challenge the charges or seek diversion and reduced penalties.
Yes. Many serious drug possession and sales cases in Rodeo begin with a minor traffic issue such as speeding, a broken taillight, or a lane change. During the stop, officers may claim to smell drugs, see something suspicious, or observe behavior that leads them to expand the encounter. A simple citation can quickly escalate into a vehicle search and, in some cases, an arrest for possession or alleged sales. This chain of events is common on highways and local streets throughout Contra Costa County. Even when a case starts with a minor violation, officers must still follow constitutional requirements. They must have a legal basis for the stop, probable cause or valid consent to search, and must respect your rights during questioning. A defense lawyer can review whether the initial traffic stop and any search were lawful. If the officer overstepped, the court may exclude certain evidence, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and improve your options.
Simple possession generally means having a small amount of a controlled substance for personal use, without evidence of dealing or distribution. These cases often involve drugs found in a pocket, backpack, or vehicle during a Rodeo traffic stop. Penalties can still be serious, but judges may consider diversion or treatment options, especially for first-time offenses. The government must prove you knew about the substance and that it was illegal for you to possess it under California law. Possession for sale, on the other hand, alleges that you intended to sell or distribute the drugs. Prosecutors look at factors such as the quantity, packaging, scales, cash, or text messages to argue that you were involved in sales rather than personal use. These charges carry harsher consequences and may limit access to certain programs. A key role of your defense lawyer is to challenge assumptions about intent and argue for a lesser charge where appropriate.
Whether you will go to jail for a first-time drug offense in Rodeo depends on several factors, including the charges, the amount and type of substance, and your overall background. In many first-offense possession cases, judges in Contra Costa County may consider probation, diversion, or treatment programs instead of immediate incarceration. Demonstrating a stable job, family support, or willingness to participate in counseling can also influence the outcome. However, each case is unique and must be assessed individually. If the accusations involve possession for sale or additional charges, the risk of jail time increases, even for someone with no prior record. In those situations, a strong defense strategy is especially important. Your lawyer can work to reduce charges, present mitigating information, and negotiate for alternatives to jail where possible. Understanding the full range of potential outcomes early in the case helps you plan and make informed decisions during plea discussions.
A defense lawyer can challenge the search that led to your Rodeo drug arrest by carefully reviewing whether officers followed constitutional rules. This includes examining the basis for the initial stop, any claims of probable cause, and whether you actually consented to a search of your vehicle or home. If officers lacked a valid legal reason to conduct the search or went beyond the scope of any consent given, your attorney may file a motion to suppress the drugs and other evidence discovered. At the hearing on a suppression motion, the court will hear testimony from officers and sometimes from the defense. Your lawyer can question inconsistencies in reports, compare statements with body camera footage, and highlight any overreach by law enforcement. When a judge rules that the search was unlawful, the prosecution may lose key evidence and be forced to reduce or dismiss the charges. This is often a critical turning point in drug possession and sales cases.
Yes. Contra Costa County offers various diversion and treatment programs that may be available to individuals charged with certain drug offenses, especially simple possession. These programs often involve counseling, classes, testing, or community service in exchange for reduced penalties or the possibility of dismissal upon successful completion. Eligibility depends on factors such as the type of charge, prior history, and whether there are allegations of sales. A lawyer familiar with local court practices can help determine which options might fit your situation. Participation in diversion can provide significant benefits, including avoiding a formal conviction that might otherwise appear on background checks. However, these programs come with obligations and deadlines that must be taken seriously. Your attorney can explain what is required, help you enroll, and advocate for you if any issues arise while you are in the program. Understanding the full range of treatment and diversion opportunities can be a key part of a successful resolution.
Drug cases that involve driving, such as DUI with drugs or possession discovered during a traffic stop, can affect your driver’s license. Depending on the circumstances, you may face an administrative action through the California Department of Motor Vehicles as well as consequences in criminal court. For example, a DUI with drugs charge can trigger a license suspension, while certain other offenses may lead to restrictions or conditions like installing an ignition interlock device. Each case has its own set of rules and potential outcomes. Your lawyer can help you understand the timelines for requesting a DMV hearing, the possible length of any suspension, and what steps are needed to restore your driving privileges. In some situations, resolving the criminal case favorably can also influence DMV actions. Because driving is essential for work, school, and family obligations, addressing license issues early is an important part of a comprehensive defense strategy in Rodeo driving and drug offense cases.
The length of a drug possession or sales case in Rodeo varies based on complexity, court schedules, and how aggressively the case is contested. Some straightforward cases may resolve within a few months if the evidence is clear and both sides are willing to negotiate. Others, particularly those involving motions to suppress, multiple defendants, or large amounts of evidence, can take significantly longer. Delays may also result from lab testing, witness availability, or scheduling conflicts among attorneys and the court. While a quick resolution may sound appealing, moving too fast can mean missing opportunities to challenge illegal searches or negotiate better terms. Your lawyer will balance the benefits of speed with the importance of thorough investigation and preparation. Regular communication about the status of your case, upcoming hearings, and strategic options helps you stay informed and reduces anxiety while the process unfolds in Contra Costa County.
A drug conviction in California can have serious effects on your job and future career path. Many employers run background checks and may view a drug possession or sales conviction as a negative factor when making hiring or promotion decisions. Certain professional licenses and educational programs also impose restrictions based on criminal history. In addition, a conviction can impact housing applications and may raise concerns in family law or custody matters, depending on the circumstances. Working with a defense lawyer gives you a chance to seek outcomes that reduce these long-term consequences. Options may include diversion programs, charge reductions, or plea agreements designed to protect your record where possible. Even after a case is resolved, you may be able to pursue record relief such as expungement or early termination of probation. Addressing these issues proactively is an important part of protecting your future in Rodeo and throughout California.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm focused on protecting the rights of individuals facing charges in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, including Rodeo. The firm brings years of courtroom experience to drug possession and sales cases, with a strong understanding of local procedures, judges, and prosecutorial practices. Clients receive personalized attention, clear explanations of their options, and a defense strategy adapted to their priorities, whether that means seeking diversion, reducing charges, or fighting the case in court. When you hire the firm, you gain an advocate who carefully reviews the details of your stop, search, and arrest, and who is prepared to challenge unlawful police conduct. The office is committed to responsive communication so you are never left wondering about the status of your case. With a focus on both immediate and long-term consequences, the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed works to protect your record, your freedom, and your future opportunities in California.
