How Long Do Police Have To File Drug Charges in Florida?
Florida’s legal authorities have up to three years to file drug possession charges against you. However, this statute of limitations varies depending on the circumstances of the crime.
One of our Lawyers at Leifert & Leifert can help you understand these conditions when you are facing charges. Learn more about how long the state has to file drug charges and how they could affect your case.
What Does Statute of Limitations Mean?
A statute of limitations restricts the time that the criminal legal system can act against you. This specific period is crucial because it protects Defendants from unfair prosecution. The threshold also ensures that District Attorneys file lawsuits while the evidence is recent and relevant. Police Officers could lose track of evidence, and witnesses’ memories often fade, making it difficult to present a fair case for crimes that were committed a long time ago. There is a limit to the time Florida’s legal system can file drug charges.
Statutes for Drug Trafficking in Florida
Possession and trafficking are two separate offenses in Florida, and therefore, the time police must file drug charges depends on the crime and its severity. For example, capital drug trafficking that involves someone’s death has no statute of limitations, while Authorities have just one year from the date the crime was committed to pursue misdemeanor distribution charges. If you commit a drug offense, Leifert & Leifert’s experienced Attorneys would explain the statutes of your specific case and formulate a strategy to protect your rights in Court.
What Happens When It Expires?
If Florida’s legal system does not file drug charges within the statute of limitations, the Court must dismiss the charges. That is why we strongly recommend hiring an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to fight by your side. When the Prosecutor delays taking legal action, we could review the statute of limitations as it applies in your case. It is a possible defense strategy for people accused of possession or trafficking.
Get Your Free Consultation To Discover How Long Drug Charges Can Be Filed Against You in Florida
The Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert will work hard to get the best result possible for you. With our free initial consultation and case review, we will explain how long Florida authorities have to file drug charges in your specific case. Contact us today to learn more. We will fight on your behalf.
