What is at stake for a drug possession charge?
It's important to realize that a drug possession arrest is very serious, and carries some very serious consequences. A drug conviction will remain on your record, which can be made available to employers upon request. You need to do everything you can to fight a drug possession conviction by hiring a professional defense attorney from Shepard Law. Punishments for possession depend on what and how much you are accused of possessing.
As mentioned before, you may also get caught in the "intent to sell" trap. This commonly occurs when you have a larger amount of the drug in your possession, or were found to have things like scales, small plastic bags, or other items that indicate an intent to distribute the drug.
Consider the following examples of possession crimes and associated penalties:
- Up to a year in jail with a $1,000 fine for 20 grams or less of marijuana
- UP to 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine for more than 20 grams of marijuana
- Up to 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine for possession of cocaine, heroin, meth, or ecstasy
- More than 10 grams of Heroin carries up to 30 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines
- Possession of drug paraphernalia carries up to 1 year in jail
Understanding the Consequences of Drug Possession Charges
Facing drug possession charges can be a daunting experience, and understanding the potential consequences is crucial for anyone involved. In Florida, penalties can vary significantly based on the type and amount of substance involved, as well as prior criminal history. Our experienced attorneys at Shepard Law are here to guide you through this complex legal landscape.
Some potential consequences of a drug possession conviction may include:
- Fines: Convictions can lead to substantial fines, which can vary based on the severity of the offense.
- Imprisonment: Depending on the circumstances, you could face jail time, which can disrupt your life and future opportunities.
- Probation: In some cases, offenders may be placed on probation, requiring regular check-ins with a probation officer and adherence to specific conditions.
- Criminal Record: A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment prospects and housing opportunities.
- Loss of Driving Privileges: Certain drug charges may lead to suspension of your driver’s license.
It is essential to have a skilled attorney who can help you navigate these potential outcomes and work towards minimizing their impact. At Shepard Law, we prioritize your rights and aim to achieve the best possible resolution for your case. Don't face these challenges alone; contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Our Experienced Panama City Drug Possession Lawyers Can Help
Mr. Shepard can work to fight your drug possession charges and protect your freedom. He has worked on criminal justice cases for over two decades and he knows what strategies are successful. He may argue that the illegal substances were discovered by an unlawful search by police or that your rights were somehow violated in the arrest process. Any evidence discovered by means of an illegal search would be inadmissible in court and may result in your charges being thrown out.
In addition, some Florida counties have access to special drug courts. This is a much more preferable sentence and drug treatment, as it will let you maintain your freedom other than weekly testing. Mr. Shepard can fight for your best outcome possible no matter what the details of your case.
While you may have access to a public defender, it's important to remember that these individuals are often overworked, and are not free like many people think. Our founding attorney is a former prosecutor, giving us inside knowledge as to how the state will build their case against you. If you're facing charges, call our firm today for the dedicated defense you need.
To speak with our experienced Panama City drug possession lawyers, give us a call at (850) 290-2505 or contact us online today.
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