When you are charged with a drug-related crime, it is normal to feel frightened and confused. The state of Florida imposes strict penalties on individuals accused of possession, selling, or trafficking, and a conviction can negatively impact your life forever.
The severity of the penalty you face will largely depend on the behavior you are accused of and the drug you were believed to be in possession of.
Facing drug charges on your own can be a terrifying prospect, but with the right Plantation drug lawyer on your side, the chances of having your charges reduced or dismissed will greatly increase. Contact an experienced defense attorney right away to begin your defense to obtain a positive outcome in your case. En Español.
Types of Drug Charges
There are numerous drug charges that can be leveled at accused individuals. The most common include possessing an illegal substance, which is more severe if an individual intended to sell the illegal substance. Possession is the most common charge, but in reality, individuals in Florida can be charged with any of the following:
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Selling a controlled substance
- Falsely obtaining or prescribing
- Manufacturing
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Delivering
- Trafficking
Many of these charges carry serious penalties, and people may need the aid of a Plantation drug lawyer to understand what they are facing. Individuals involved with both prescription and non-prescription substances are subject to the law.
Trafficking and Distribution
In Florida, both the state and federal government can charge an individual with a drug crime. Under most circumstances, the federal government will handle cases involving individuals who are accused of handling large quantities of illegal substances (trafficking or distributing).
During a trial, the prosecutor is tasked with proving that the accused individual knowingly and willingly engaged in criminal conduct. In many cases, if the defense can prove that someone intended to use the drug they were in possession of for personal use, they may be able to walk away with a lighter charge of drug distribution or possession.
What is the Severity of a Possession Charge?
Depending on the type of drug, drug possession can be considered either a misdemeanor or felony charge.
Of course, individuals with previous charges will be punished more severely, even for small amounts of drugs, but if it is their first offense, they may be able to avoid jail time. The severity of the charge will depend on the amount and type of drugs an individual is in possession of.
Being detained for possessing of extremely large quantities of drugs can result in felony charges and up to 30 years in prison. Individuals with multiple past charges can also face mandatory prison sentences depending on the nature of their charges.
What is the Penalty for Drug Manufacturing in Plantation?
Manufacturing a controlled substance can result in multiple charges for an individual. For example, if the court believes that the manufacturer intends to distribute the drugs, the manufacturer can be charged with both the distribution and manufacturing of an illegal substance. If the drug was manufactured within 100 feet of a school, daycare, or public place, the accused offender could end up facing an additional charge.
Contact a Plantation Drug Attorney
Plantation drug lawyers understand the complex drug laws in Florida, and strive to help you protect your freedom at all costs. Contact experienced defense attorneys to discuss the details of your drug charges today.