When most people think of drug possession, they usually think of it as a relatively minor offense. The truth is that any drug-related crime, including simple possession, is taken very seriously under Florida law, and can be charged as a federal offense depending on the type of drug involved. It is crucial that you take it seriously as well. A conviction for possession of any illegal drug can result in severe penalties, which only get more severe as the quantity of the drug increases. If you are facing charges for drug possession of any kind, it is critical that you seek the advice of a qualified lawyer.
Contact the Kelley Defense Firm at 407-847-6259 to discuss your case.
What is Considered Drug Possession?
Drug possession occurs when you have maintained control or ownership over a controlled substance, including temporary possession. A controlled substance is any drug listed in Schedules I-V of Florida Statute 893.03. Drugs are categorized into these federally regulated schedules based on their likelihood of abuse.
Drug Possession with Intent to Sell
A simple possession charge could turn into “intent to sell” based on the amount of the drug found. It does not matter whether you intend to sell the drug. If police find evidence such as large amounts of cash around the scene, equipment for testing, or packaging materials, you could be charged with intent to sell.
Penalties for Drug Possession
Penalties for drug possession are based on the schedule level. Schedule V drugs have the lowest abuse potential and are commonly used for medical purposes. Schedule I drugs are the most severe category and include drugs with a high potential for abuse and little to no medical purpose. Depending on the substance you had in your possession and its amount, penalties could range from a misdemeanor to life in prison. First-time offenders can also face harsh penalties. For instance, those convicted of misdemeanor possession of marijuana may have their driver’s license suspended for two years.
Aggressive Defense in Drug Possession Cases
At the Kelley Defense Firm, we do everything we can to beat the charges brought against you. We will examine how law enforcement discovered the drugs and if the search that uncovered them was legal. If we find any indication that your rights were violated, we will take immediate action to have the charges against you dismissed. If a dismissal is out of reach, we will work to obtain the most favorable outcome possible.
We have defended clients against possession charges in cases involving all types of drugs, including the following:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Heroin
- Illegal prescription drugs, including Oxycontin, Oxycodone, Xanax, and Vicodin
Speak to an Orlando Drug Possession Attorney
Kissimmee drug possession defense attorney Richard Nick Kelley is a former Assistant State Attorney in Orange County and Osceola County. He has prosecuted hundreds of drug possession cases and represented clients in various drug possession cases in state and federal court. He uses his experience on both sides of these cases to secure the best possible outcome for your defense.
Contact Richard Nick Kelley, P.A., today for a free initial consultation about your drug possession case. You can reach a member of our firm 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call our Kissimmee office at 407-847-6259 today.