Back at the motel, I called a friend who's an assistant US attorney back in California. "Whatever you do, Don't Plead Guilty," he advised. "You don't want a drug conviction on your record. It might even count as one of your three strikes."

Hire a lawyer immediately, Paul advised. If you can't get one right away, have the court appearance postponed. Go to the court house early. Get a copy of the police report from the Sheriff. Visit the prosecuting attorney and request his evidence. He might not give it to you if you don't have an attorney, however. Part of the evidence might be incriminating testimony from some of the other inmates, who might be offered reduced sentences for testifying against you. Expect the cop to lie under oath. Don't accuse the cop of lying, because no one will believe you and it'll look bad.

There was more that I can't remember, simple stuff made elusive my the tense circumstances. "That's just amazing! I can't believe this is happening to you," my friend said as he wished me luck and got off the line.

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