When facing criminal charges of any kind, your future interests could be at risk. Even relatively minor crimes can impact multiple areas of your life, and no matter what you are facing, protecting your future is important. This is particularly true when facing drug possession charges.
In Florida, drug possession is a serious crime. This means that you are facing serious penalties, even if it is your first offense. As soon as possible after an arrest, you can take immediate action to start working on your defense strategy. When you are facing potential jail time and other consequences that can alter the course of your life, you have no time to lose in seeking defense guidance.
What Florida law says about drug possession
A person who has drugs but did not manufacture, sell or traffic the drug could face drug possession charges. Many people believe these charges are minor, but in Florida, the penalties are steep. These cases can be complex, and law enforcement may attempt to charge a person who has a large amount of an illegal drug with possession with intent to sell.
In order to charge you with possession, the prosecution must be able to prove certain elements about your case. These include:
- You had possession of a controlled substance. There must be clear proof that the drug you had was in violation of Florida laws. In some cases, lab analysis of the substance is necessary to prove what it is.
- You knew the drug you had in your possession was illicit. The prosecution must prove that you knew the drug you had was illegal, or it is reasonable to assume that you should have known.
- You had control over the drug by having it on your person or in a container on you at the time of arrest. If there were drugs near you but no clear proof they were yours, it may not be enough to charge you with possession.
It is important to evaluate the prosecution’s case against you and determine how to move forward with your defense.
Where should you start?
Many people facing drug possession charges find it helpful to start with a complete evaluation of their case. This step can allow them to understand the legal options available to them and how they can pursue a beneficial outcome to their case.
If you are facing drug possession charges in Florida, you do not have to face them alone. You are entitled to present a strong defense, challenge the evidence against you and fight for your desired outcome.
