The Villages Drug Charge Attorney
Providing 24/7 Criminal Defense for Drug-Related Crimes
Have You or Someone You Know Been Arrested for Drugs?
Getting caught with drugs can be a scary experience with serious impacts on someone’s life including criminal charges, incarceration, probation, damaged reputation, and difficulty finding employment in the future. If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged for drugs in The Villages, contact our law firm right away for legal assistance.
Washo and Spivey is a team of experienced The Villages drug charge attorneys who specialize in criminal defense drug cases in Sumter County, Florida. We offer strong criminal defense and support for drug crime cases from small-amount possession charges to serious felony trafficking. Our law firm is located right next to the Sumter County Clerk’s Office and Courthouse, so we are always nearby and ready to assist you.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Drug Charges in Florida
The distinction between misdemeanor and felony drug charges depends on several factors, such as the type of drugs involved, the amount of drugs found in the offender’s possession, and what their intent was. Misdemeanor drug charges generally involve smaller quantities of drugs intended for personal use, resulting in penalties such as fines, short-term incarceration, or probation. Examples include simple possession of cannabis under a specific weight threshold.
Felony drug charges are reserved for more serious drug-related offenses, such as possession of large quantities of controlled substances, intent to distribute, manufacture, or trafficking. These charges reflect a higher degree of criminal intent and potential harm to society, carrying stiffer penalties including long-term imprisonment, substantial fines, and significant long-term consequences like loss of certain civil rights. The severity of the charge directly influences the approach to defense and potential outcomes in court.
Providing Strong Legal Representation & Support in The Villages, Florida
Common Drug Charges & Penalties in Florida
Florida categorizes drug offenses into different categories depending on the substance(s) involved and the nature of the crime. For example, if the perpetrator is caught with a smaller amount of marijuana that is clearly intended for personal use, they will usually face a misdemeanor charge with lesser penalties. However, if an individual gets caught with large quantities and materials like scales or bags that make it clear the intent was to sell, this can lead to more serious distribution or trafficking charges.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Possession of a controlled substance involves unlawfully holding, carrying, or having access to illegal drugs or certain regulated medications without a prescription. In jurisdictions like Florida, this offense can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the drug type and quantity, leading to fines, probation, or imprisonment. Illegal controlled substances include:
- Marijuana
- Hallucinogens like LSD, acid & mushrooms
- Unprescribed prescription pills
- Crack & cocaine
- Methamphetamine, ecstasy & molly
- Heroin
- Unprescribed morphine & ketamine
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possession of drug paraphernalia involves owning, using, or intending to use any material, product, or equipment for making, using, or concealing illegal drugs. This includes items like pipes, bongs, rolling paper, and syringes designed for drug consumption. Paraphernalia possession can lead to criminal charges, including misdemeanors or felonies depending on the context and associated activities.
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 Selling & 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 Drug 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.
Types of Drug Possession Charges in Florida
In Florida, drug possession charges vary based on the substance involved, the amount in possession, and the perceived intent behind possessing the drug. The primary types of drug possession charges include:
- Simple Possession: This charge applies to individuals found with small quantities of drugs, typically intended for personal use. Depending on the drug, simple possession can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony.
- Possession with Intent to Sell, Manufacture, or Deliver: This more severe charge is levied when there is evidence suggesting the drugs were not solely for personal use but intended for distribution. Factors such as the quantity of drugs, packaging, scales, and communications can indicate intent. This charge is usually a felony, with penalties increasing based on the drug type and amount.
- Constructive Possession: This charge can apply when drugs are found in a location over which an individual has control, such as a car or home, even if the drugs are not physically on the person. Proving constructive possession requires demonstrating that the individual had knowledge of the drugs and control over the area.
- Trafficking: Although often considered separately from possession, trafficking charges can apply when someone possesses large quantities of drugs. Trafficking is a first-degree felony in Florida, with mandatory minimum sentences based on the type and amount of drug.
Find a Drug Defense Attorney in The Villages, FL
Don’t let a drug charge ruin your entire life. Our The Villages drug defense attorneys can assess the details of your charges and develop a strategy to help you achieve the best possible legal outcome for your case. If you or someone you know has been arrested for a drug-related crime in Sumter County, contact Washo and Spivey Law Firm to schedule a consultation with a Bushnell drug charge attorney or Tavares drug charge attorney.
