Drug Possession Lawyer in Lakeland — Working Hard to Secure Favorable Outcomes for Our Clients

In recent years, Florida has taken a hardline stance against crime. One of the most obvious ways to do this is a crackdown on drug offenses. As such, we’ve seen busts for certain drugs increase by as much as 200% in parts of the state. If you’re facing charges related to controlled substances, the stakes couldn’t be any higher in your case. You’ve got a lot to lose, so it’s advisable to seek counsel from a drug possession lawyer in Lakeland.

At DeMichael Law, you’ll work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who’s committed to securing favorable outcomes for clients. These crimes can range from misdemeanors to a first-degree felonies. This means that sentences of up to 30 years in prison are possible. And even if you’re facing charges related to less serious crimes — such as possession of marijuana — a conviction can still knock your life off the tracks.

Don’t risk your freedom or future. Contact a Lakeland drug possession attorney at DeMichael Law today.

What’s the Definition of Drug Possession in Florida?

Many drug laws in Florida are straightforward. Possession statutes fall into this category. Under the law, having any controlled substance can result in drug possession charges. This is true regardless of whether someone has street drugs or prescription drugs. The big variations in the law relate to the types of drugs a person has along with the amount. For instance, possession of marijuana is often charged as a misdemeanor. However, a person with an equal amount of cocaine, LSD, anabolic steroids, and other drugs can be charged with a felony.

There are also various drug charges that are related to possession. For instance, possessing certain amounts or engaging in certain behaviors can lead to trafficking or intent to distribute charges. While possession has its own set of severe penalties, the consequences of a drug trafficking or intent to distribute charge are far more serious. Regardless of the allegations against you, it’s important to speak with a drug possession lawyer in Lakeland before making any decisions. Failing to do so could result in unnecessary legal difficulties.

What Are Controlled Substances?

There are plenty of drugs out there, and many of them are completely legal to use. However, controlled substances are more than just drugs. Rather, these substances are regulated by the government due to their potential for addiction, abuse, and harm to individuals or society, as such, drugs that qualify as controlled substances can change at any time. For instance, many states have legalized marijuana use. In such cases, those states would no longer treat marijuana as a controlled substance.

In Florida, there are hundreds of drugs that qualify as controlled substances. These include names we’ve all heard before — such as cocaine and methamphetamine — but lesser-known substances, such as ethcathinone and acetorphine, are also on the list. This means there are drug crimes going through the courts involving things most people have never heard of. Unfortunately, the law doesn’t care whether a substance is well-known. If a person is caught possessing a controlled substance, they will find themselves in legal peril.

That’s why anyone facing such charges should reach out to a drug possession attorney in Lakeland today.

What Are the Penalties for a Drug Possession Conviction?

A drug possession conviction can carry stiff penalties. However, potential sentences will depend on varying factors. These factors include the type of substance, how much a person has on them, the packaging of the substance, and sometimes even where a person is arrested. For instance, an individual charged with a drug offense could face a misdemeanor if arrested at their home — but charges could be upgraded to a felony if they’re captured near a school, church, or park.

When it comes to simple possession, penalties can differ dramatically. For instance, a misdemeanor possession charge could result in a jail sentence of up to one year. However, penalties are typically lower — especially for those who work with a drug possession lawyer in Lakeland. Conversely, a first-degree felony charge could result in a 30-year prison sentence. This is akin to life imprisonment. An individual arrested for cocaine possession near a school could face such charges if police believe they intended to sell.

Clearly, potential penalties can be devastating. Even a misdemeanor charge can land a person in jail for a year. That’s why you should speak with a Lakeland drug lawyer before doing anything. Contact DeMichael Law today.

Should You Work With Prosecutors or Accept a Plea Deal?

If you’re arrested for drug possession, you might have a tough road ahead of you. However, a prosecutor may offer you a plea agreement. They’ll frame this offer as “the best you’re going to get.” They’ll often tell you that refusing a plea will result in more severe charges and potential penalties. You may even be told that you can walk away free and clear by simply providing the names of others who may be involved. Before you work with prosecutors, though, it’s important to speak with a Lakeland criminal defense attorney.

The most important thing to remember is that prosecutors are not your friends. They might act like them, but in reality, they just want convictions. Depending on your case, a plea arrangement may be in your best interest — but you should first seek guidance from an experienced attorney. Even if you’re offered no jail time for a guilty plea, you could still end up losing your license, being ordered into community service, facing random drug tests, and more. That’s why it’s critical for you to understand your options fully.

At DeMichael Law, we’ll fight to make sure you know exactly what you’re up against.

Contact a Drug Possession Lawyer in Lakeland Today

From driver’s license suspensions to decades behind bars, the potential consequences of a drug conviction are always serious. Unfortunately, these criminal cases far too often see defendants accept unfair plea deals or end up in prison when they don’t deserve to be there. Even individuals taking prescription drugs prescribed by a doctor can find themselves on the wrong side of the law in certain instances. Regardless of your unique situation, you may benefit from experienced legal assistance.

At DeMichael Law, we’ve seen what a drug crime conviction can do to a person’s life. Even after all fines are paid, license suspensions lifted, and prison terms served, consequences can follow someone for a lifetime. You may find yourself unable to secure housing, seek higher education, find a job, or even get a date since convictions are public information. You could also face difficulties in future legal proceedings — such as child custody cases. Let our drug possession lawyer in Lakeland fight to avoid such outcomes.