My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
In February 2011 my friend was on vacation in California, from NY, when he got arrested for possession of a controlled substance (he had less than 1/2 ounce of pot and a very small amount of cyrstal meth- I believe 1/4 gram) and also for possession of a smoking device (the meth pipe).
They kept him in jail for a few (4 or less) days and then let him go with the understanding that he could be charged for this in the future. Yesterday, 6/13/2011, he received a letter stating that a complaint has been filed in that court charging him with one count possession of a controlled substance (he doesn't know if it's the pot or meth or why not both?) and one count possession of the smoking device.
He has now go to California in July just for this first arraignment/appearance. What would be the best way to find a lawyer? Is there a better way than going online and just searching for defense attorney's in the Imperial County area? And how do you pick one just judging by their website or page and/or very few reviews? Is it a good/better idea to pick one who used to be a prosecutor?
Also, any idea on what type of sentence he could get for this? He's 43 and never been arrested or in trouble before.
Thanks very much for any advice/help/opinions.

