Crimes involving illegal substances, including cocaine, heroin, or medication without a prescription, can significantly impact your life. Even a conviction for a minor drug offense can become a massive problem if you face prosecution for arrests involving drugs again.
Because of the increase in overdoses and the high rate of trafficking in Florida, the state prosecutes drug crimes harshly. Therefore, careful evidence collection, thorough review, and planning are crucial for defending your legal rights, freedom, and future. Speak with a skilled Inverness drug lawyer for more information. Our dedicated criminal lawyers are ready to help you.
Some of the Most Common Drug Offense Arrests
Some of the most common drug offense arrests Inverness residents face include the following:
- Manufacturing controlled substances
- Possession of illegal drugs or prescription medication with the intent to distribute
- Controlled substance delivery
- Falsely prescribing or obtaining prescription medication
- Drug trafficking
- Possession of controlled substances
Many circumstances surrounding an individual’s arrest can elevate the seriousness of the charges substantially. These circumstances include prior drug convictions, selling illicit drugs to minors, or arrests in school zones. A hardworking attorney in Inverness could analyze a case involving illegal substances and help strategize the most effective defense.
Unlawful Possession of Controlled Prescription Drugs
Federal and state regulations strictly regulate controlled substances requiring prescriptions. These laws classify medication to monitor it closely when there is a significant potential for abuse and addiction. Some examples of medicines that fall within the category include Oxycodone, Percocet, Adderall, and Xanax.
According to Florida Statutes § 499.03(1), possessing habit-forming medications unlawfully and without a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional is unlawful. The first offense for illegally possessing drugs is punishable by penalties, including up to 60 days in jail and $500 in fines.
However, possession with the intent to sell the medication could result in up to five years in prison for the first conviction. A dedicated Inverness lawyer could review applicable statutes and answer specific questions regarding drug crimes during a consultation.
The Potential Defense Strategies for Drug Crimes
A good defense strategy will depend on the arrest and other case details. Still, in some situations, there may be grounds for filing a motion to suppress or dismiss evidence.
Arrest Details, Including Verifying a Valid Reason for the Stop
It is unlawful for police officers to pull vehicles over without a valid reason or cause. Law enforcement must observe the individual breaking laws or failing to adhere to traffic regulations and have probable cause for the stop. Upon filing a motion to dismiss, the court could rule that there was no cause for the arrest and drop the case altogether.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Search and seizures are commonplace in Florida, and sometimes they are not legal. Filing a motion to suppress could cause the court to rule that the officers obtained the evidence without a lawful cause and that the state cannot use it against the defendant. Using one of these defenses, a skilled attorney in Inverness could help build a strong case following a drug charge.
Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Drug Attorney in Inverness
When you face conviction after a drug or controlled prescription medication arrest, you must begin preparing immediately, even if your court date is months away. The more time you have to gather evidence and plan, the better your chance for a favorable outcome.
An Inverness drug lawyer understands the challenges you face and could help guide you through the criminal court process. A legal team member could answer your questions, handle communications with the state, and advocate on your behalf aggressively. Call today.
