Controlled Substance Offenses
If you’ve been charged with a drug related crime, you need to begin to build your defense immediately. Contact The Arnold Law Group, P.A. today to schedule a consultation, as you will need an experienced drug crime attorney to help you through this serious and stressful situation. Below are examples of the drug-related crime charges we handle.
Unfortunately, Florida is notorious for drug trafficking, drug offenses and all of the criminal elements that naturally follow such a reality. As a result, the legislature and the Florida courts have taken substantial steps towards ramping up the enforcement and the penalties associated with drug offenses.
Drug Possession in Florida
Drug possession in Florida is a crime that can involve several substances and be charged in varying degrees, but one common denominator is that possession of a controlled substance is a serious charge. Florida statutes state explicitly that:
It is unlawful for any person to knowingly or intentionally:
- Possess a listed chemical with the intent to unlawfully manufacture a controlled substance;
- Possess or distribute a listed chemical knowing, or having reasonable cause to believe, that the listed chemical will be used to unlawfully manufacture a controlled substance;
- Any person who violates this section is guilty of a Felony of the Second Degree.
There are different amounts of controlled substances that decide whether possession of them would warrant a felony or misdemeanor charge, and they are listed below:
- Cocaine: Possessing any amount is a felony;
- Marijuana: Possessing more than 20 grams is a third degree felony;
- Heroin: Possessing any amount is a felony;
- MDMA: Possessing even one pill is a felony.
Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida
Florida statutes define drug trafficking as:
Any person who knowingly sells, purchases, manufactures, delivers, or brings into this state, or who is knowingly in actual or constructive possession of (a controlled substance). These are felonies in nature, and they carry significant prison terms as consequences.
Smuggling
Drug smuggling is the act of transporting any controlled substance into Florida illegally with the intent to either distribute or possess said controlled substance. Given that these issues often involve crossing state lines, these offenses are often federal in nature, and federal sentencing guidelines are very serious in nature.
Intent to Distribute
Being charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute adds a degree of seriousness to any drug-related charge. Several facts could lead to this charge, including storing these controlled substances in several small packages or even the cell phone located in your pocket with cash.
Overall, drug charges in Florida present a big problem for those arrested for and charged with these offenses. If you are facing this stressful situation, you need to contact The Arnold Law Group, P.A., as soon as possible for a consultation.