Many states across the country have significantly loosened their drug laws in recent years, and some have taken steps toward decriminalizing, or even fully legalizing, the possession of certain controlled substances for personal use. The Sunshine State, however, still maintains harsh prohibitions on the possession, use, and, in particular, the distribution of controlled substances. Almost all offenses of this nature are classified as felony offenses, and you could face a lengthy prison sentence if you are convicted of one of them.
That said, if you are charged with a drug-related criminal offense, it is not a guarantee that you will experience life-changing criminal sanctions, especially if you work with a dependable St. Petersburg drug lawyer in challenging the allegations against you. At Goldman Wetzel, we know how to take complex cases to trial under tough circumstances and effectively protect the best interests of defendants throughout the process. Our seasoned defense attorneys can work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure your unique case has the best possible resolution for you.
The potential consequences of a drug possession charge in St. Petersburg depend primarily on three factors: the Schedule of the drug under state and federal law, the amount of the drug you are found to have possessed, and your history—if any—of previous drug-related criminal convictions. In general, Florida state law imposes much harsher penalties on people found in possession of Schedule I drugs compared to Schedule II drugs, harsher penalties for Schedule II drugs compared to Schedule III drugs, and so on down to Schedule V substances, which have accepted medical uses and a relatively small risk of causing chemical dependence.
However, as an illegal substances drug attorney from St. Petersburg can further explain, possession of more than 10 grams of any Schedule II to V controlled substance is still a third-degree felony offense. Possession of more than 10 grams of a Schedule I drug, besides marijuana, is a first-degree felony, punishable upon conviction by up to 30 years in prison for even a first-time offender. On top of that, many drug-related offenses—including some types of drug possession charges—can be counted against you under Florida’s Three Strikes Law, which can lead to you facing extremely long prison terms based solely on your status as a habitual offender.
Florida state law deals more harshly with allegations of drug distribution and manufacture than it does with any type of possession offense, treating every offense of drug distribution or manufacture as a felony. Furthermore, if you are found in possession of specific amounts of particular drugs, the court will assume you are engaged in drug trafficking. These drugs and amounts are:
If convicted of drug trafficking, you could face sanctions as severe as life in prison without the possibility of parole. However, support from a seasoned drug defense lawyer in St. Petersburg can be incredibly helpful in mitigating the long-term impact of such an accusation.
Whether you have been in criminal court before or this is your first time facing a criminal charge of any kind, a drug charge can alter the course of your life in a matter of days. Fortunately, though, you have support available from dedicated legal professionals. We can help you understand and enforce your rights and are ready to fight for you.
A St. Petersburg drug lawyer from Goldman Wetzel will work in your favor and by your side throughout the duration of your legal proceedings. Call us today for a confidential consultation.
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