If you have been charged with possession of controlled substances in Florida then you may have a defense. Constructive possession, legal disposal, and lack of knowledge are all defenses that are oftentimes successful when fighting possession of controlled substances cases. Attorney Williams can also attack the legality of any search conducted by law enforcement that led to your arrest. Even if you don’t think you have a defense, you should always speak to an attorney to make sure you have a full understanding of how the law applies specifically to your case. If you want to know more about constructive possession or legal disposal, or if you want to talk to a lawyer about how to beat your possession of controlled substances case in Florida, then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.
In Florida, possession of controlled substances is defined under Florida Statute 893.13(6)(a). A person commits possession of controlled substances when they knowingly possess any of the following substances:
- cocaine;
- fentanyl;
- GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid)
- heroin
- hydrocodone
- marijuana (cannabis)
- MDMA (molly, ecstasy)
- Methamphetamine
- Oxycodone
- Synthetic drugs
- Xanax (alprazolam)
Possession of controlled substances is a third-degree felony, meaning it is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, or up to 5 years on probation and up to $5,000 in fines (you can also get a jail or prison sentence followed by probation, but the length of the punishment cannot exceed 5 years).
In addition to facing prison time, if you are adjudicated guilty of possession of controlled substances you will lose constitutional rights and you’ll have to deal with many other collateral consequences; however, there are ways to resolve your case while still protecting your future.
Attorney Williams has been successful in resolving possession cases with drug court, pre-trial intervention and diversion agreements; all of which result in your case being dropped. He’s also been successful in representing people charged with possession in jury trials and evidence suppression hearings.
Criminal convictions, especially convictions for drug related charges, carry severe consequences and can never be removed from your criminal record. If you are convicted of a felony you will lose your right to vote, your right to own firearms, and your ability to maintain certain business licenses. You can also lose your ability to receive financial aid, your ability to live in certain places and your ability to obtain a passport.
If you need an attorney who will advise you, fight for your rights, and do everything possible to protect your future, or if someone you know has been charged with possession of controlled substances in Florida then contact Matthew Williams now for a free consultation.