Tavares Drug Charge Attorney
Strong Criminal Defense for Drug-Related Crimes
Do You Need Legal Defense for a Drug Crime in Tavares, FL?
Have you or someone you know been arrested for a criminal drug charge? Depending on the type of drug(s) and severity of the crime, these charges can have serious consequences on someone’s life including job loss, ruined relationships, incarceration, and a criminal record that can make it difficult to find employment or housing in the future.
Washo and Spivey are a team of experienced Tavares drug charge attorneys who specialize in criminal defense for clients in Lake County, Florida. We provide 24/7 criminal defense and legal support for cases involving drug-related crimes from minor possession charges to felony trafficking. Our law firm is conveniently located next to the Lake County Clerk of Courts and Lake County Jail, so we are always close by and ready to assist you.
What Constitutes a Drug Crime in Florida?
In Florida, drug crimes encompass a wide spectrum of offenses that carry specific penalties that reflect the severity of the crime. Simple possession of small amounts of drugs like marijuana may result in misdemeanor charges in addition to fines, probation, or short jail time. Possessing larger quantities or more dangerous controlled substances like cocaine or heroin typically leads to felony charges with much steeper penalties including long-term imprisonment and hefty fines.
Drug trafficking, manufacturing, and distribution are among the most serious drug-related offenses, often carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences under state drug laws. Prescription drug offenses like “doctor shopping” and prescription fraud are increasingly scrutinized given the state’s focus on combating the opioid crisis. The consequences of drug convictions in Florida can extend beyond legal penalties, affecting employment, housing, and personal relationships, making legal representation in these cases a necessity.
Providing Strong 24/7 Legal Representation in Tavares, FL
Common Drug Charges & Penalties in Florida
Florida’s stringent drug laws encompass a range of offenses, each carrying its own set of penalties that reflect the seriousness of the crime. From possession of controlled substances to the more severe charges of trafficking and manufacturing, the legal system takes a tough stance on drug-related activities.
The penalties for a drug offense can vary significantly based on the substances involved, the quantity, and the offender’s criminal history. Understanding these laws and their implications is crucial for anyone navigating the complexities of drug-related legal challenges in Florida.
Drug Possession
In Florida, drug possession charges can vary based on the type of drug, the amount in possession, and the intended use. The main types of drug possession charges are:
- Simple Possession: Possession of a controlled substance for personal use. The severity of this charge often depends on the type and amount of the drug. For example, possession of a small amount of marijuana is typically a misdemeanor, while possession of harder substances like cocaine or heroin is usually a felony.
- Possession With Intent to Sell, Manufacture or Deliver: This charge is more serious and implies that the individual possessed the drugs with the intention to distribute. The evidence for intent can include large quantities of the drug, packaging materials, scales, or other distribution paraphernalia.
- Constructive Possession: This applies when a person has access to and control over the place where drugs are found (like a car or a home), but the drugs are not found directly on their person.
- Prescription Drug Possession: Unlawfully possessing prescription drugs, such as painkillers or sedatives, without a valid prescription. This can include obtaining prescription medications through fraud or forgery.
The penalties for drug possession in Florida can range from fines and probation for minor offenses to significant prison time for more serious charges, especially if they involve large amounts of drugs or intent to distribute.
Drug Manufacturing
Drug manufacturing involves the illegal production of controlled substances like methamphetamine, LSD, and ecstasy. This process often includes the cultivation, extraction, or chemical synthesis of drugs. Manufacturing drugs is a serious offense that usually results in felony charges given the potential for large-scale distribution and significant public health risks associated with these activities.
Drug Distribution
Drug distribution refers to the act of selling, supplying, or transporting controlled substances illegally. This crime goes beyond mere possession, involving the transfer of drugs to others, often on a large scale. Distribution is a serious felony, attracting severe legal penalties due to its role in perpetuating substance abuse and related societal issues.
Prescription Fraud
Prescription fraud involves obtaining prescription medications through deceptive means, such as forging doctor’s signatures, altering prescriptions, or “doctor shopping.” This crime reflects the misuse of prescription drugs, often for non-medical use or illicit sale. Prescription fraud is taken seriously due to its contribution to the larger issue of prescription drug abuse and public health risks.
Misdemeanor Drug Charges
Misdemeanor drug charges include less serious drug offenses like possession of small amounts of marijuana or certain prescription medications without a valid prescription. While these charges are considered less severe than felonies, they still carry heavy legal consequences including fines, probation, potential jail time, and a lasting impact on the offender’s criminal record.
Felony Drug Charges
Felony drug charges are reserved for more serious offenses, often involving large quantities of controlled substances, trafficking, manufacturing, or distribution. These charges carry severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term legal repercussions, reflecting the gravity of the crime and its potential impact on public health and safety.
Find a Tavares Drug Defense Attorney Near Me
Being caught with drugs by law enforcement can be a frightening experience, especially if you have no prior experience or knowledge of the legal system. It may feel like your life is over, but our Tavares drug defense attorneys can assess your case and devise a strategy to get you the best possible legal outcome. If you or someone you know has been arrested for a drug-related offense in Lake County, contact Washo and Spivey to schedule a consultation with a Tavares drug charge attorney, Bushnell drug charge attorney or The Villages drug charge attorney.
