Drug laws in Florida are among the most stringent in the nation. State law shows a low tolerance for possessing even small amounts of illegal drugs, and the law imposes severe consequences on offenders.
Florida law enforcement made more than 114,000 drug arrests in 2015, making drug offenses the most common category of crime among those reported by state officials. If you or someone you love is one of those facing a drug charge, you are not alone—and there is help available. To get started, learn more about drug crimes in Florida.
Common Drug Charges in Broward & Palm Beach Counties, South Florida
Drug offenses in Florida encompass many different types of substances, both legal and illegal. An individual can be arrested on a drug crime charge when he has a controlled substance that he is not authorized to legally manufacture, distribute, or sell. This is true for well-known illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, LSD, ecstasy, and more. It is also true for drugs that may be legal in some situations, but illegal in others. Those situations mostly involve marijuana and prescription drugs. The most common drug charges are:
- Possession: knowingly possessing a controlled substance (in some cases without a prescription) in sufficient quantity for use.
- Manufacturing: producing or cultivating a controlled substance.
- Distribution: selling, delivering, or providing a controlled substance to others without appropriate licensure.
The Elements of a Drug Possession Crime in South Florida
Possession is one of the most common drug offenses in Florida. To convict an individual on a drug possession charge, law enforcement must prove three specific elements. They are:
- The substance in possession of the individual is a controlled substance—either an illegal drug or a drug for which a doctor’s prescription is required.
- The accused knew both that he was in possession of the drug and that the drug was illegal.
- The accused was in control of the drug in both presence and location.
A Florida Drug Conviction Can Lead to Personal and Financial Consequences
A drug crime conviction in Florida can leave an individual facing many devastating consequences. The legal repercussions depend on the unique details of each case, though typically the type of drug, quantity of drug, and the accused person’s criminal history are major factors. Depending on those factors, an individual may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. The penalties can include:
- Fines
- Probation
- Jail or prison time
These penalties can force those convicted to miss valuable time with loved ones and cause embarrassment or shame. In addition, drug charged can result in:
- Loss of employment
- Loss of professional licensure
- Deportation
- Financial hardship
Our Team of Award-Winning Attorneys Can Help Fight Your Drug Charge
If you are facing drug possession or another drug charge, it’s important to seek help right away.
It is possible to successfully fight a drug offense in Broward County with the aid of an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Rossen Law Firm, we have a team of 4 incredible, award-winning attorneys. We provide top-notch, aggressive criminal defense for people and provide compassionate advice and support.
Facing a drug crime or under investigation? Call to schedule an appointment for a FREE consultation:
- Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200
- Sunrise: (754) 999-2499
- Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181
See all locations Rossen Law Firm practices Drug Crime Defense.
HOW WE WIN DRUG CRIMES CASES IN SOUTH FLORIDA
- Learn how we got Felony cocaine charge DROPPED in 1 MONTH in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- Learn how Rossen Law Firm got multiple charges of Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia & Driving on a Suspended License dismissed in Plantation, Florida.