Understanding Drug Crime Defense
Understanding Drug Crime Defense
Understanding Drug Crime Defense
Fighting a drug crime charge is often a difficult thing to do; the difficulty increases when you have no legal help. Moreover, handling such charges on your own also increases the risk of conviction and penalties. This is why you need to find a good criminal lawyer to prepare a strong defense for your case.
What constitutes a drug crime? Usually possession of illegal substances exceeding the permissible amounts is a crime. Trafficking of these substances may also result in criminal charges. Some of these substances are cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and so on. Possessing drug paraphernalia is also a crime.
What factors determine the penalties? The quantity and type of drugs you possess are significant factors in this regard. Another significant factor is the purpose of possession. You may face enhanced penalties if you were involving minors or selling the substances to them, or near a school.
What are the penalties you may suffer? Here is a list of the penalties for drug possession in Florida.
- For marijuana possession, less than or equal to 20 grams, (first degree misdemeanor) the penalty is 1 year jail term and $1,000 fine.
- For marijuana possession, more than 20 grams, (third degree felony) the penalty is 5 year jail term and $5,000 fine.
- For controlled substance (heroin, cocaine, etc) possession (third degree felony), the penalty is 5 year jail term and $5,000 fine.
- For heroin possession, more than 10 grams, (first degree felony), the penalty is 30 year jail term and $10,000 fine.
- For unlawful chemical (GHB, methamphetamines, etc) possession (second degree felony), the penalty is 15 year jail term and $10,000 fine.
- For drug paraphernalia (smoking devices, syringes, bongs, etc) possession (first degree misdemeanor), the penalty is 1 year jail term and $1,000 fine.
Is defense possible? Many a times, an error on the part of the arresting or investing officer may lead to a probable defense. Your Miami criminal lawyer would also know whether other affirmative defenses, like entrapment, would work in your case. However, you need to opt for legal help as soon as possible.
How do you choose a lawyer? Opt for a qualified and certified Miami defense lawyer. It is a good idea to find a legal professional with experience in handling such cases. You sure do not want to jeopardize your life. Any conviction related to drug crimes stays on your criminal record forever marring your future opportunities.
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