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Charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance in Tampa?
When it comes to drug possession, many Tampa residents think of marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other outright illegal drugs. However, many people do not realize that drug possession charges are not limited to illegal drugs, but also include drugs that may be prescribed by a physician. Controlled substances in Florida are governed by the state’s Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, and are categorized from Schedule I to V. Drugs are classified based on their potential for abuse. Thus, Schedule I drugs have the highest potential for abuse.
Given that some prescription drugs have a high potential for abuse, they are considered controlled substances and therefore governed by Florida’s drug possession laws. Facing a drug possession charge is frightening and stressful enough, but when the substance involved is not an outright illegal drug (such as cocaine, for example), it can be even more frustrating for the accused who simply did not have a prescription.
Tampa Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. has helped many clients fight possession charges involving a variety of drugs, both those that are outright illegal, and those that may be obtained by a physician. By reviewing the general information below, you will have an understanding of what to expect if you are facing a drug possession charge.
Possession of a Controlled Substance in Florida – What’s at Stake?
When it comes to possession of a controlled substance in Florida, drugs such as Codeine, Percocet, Oxycontin, and Vicodin, among others, the penalties for conviction can be just as serious as those that result from possessing outright illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine. This is often surprising for many people simply because Codeine and related drugs can be prescribed by a physician. However, Florida law does not differentiate prescription drugs from illegal drugs if an individual possessing an otherwise legal drug does not have a lawful prescription.
Under Florida law, if you are arrested of possessing a controlled substance (other than marijuana), and you are ultimately convicted, you face a third degree felony that carries with it a jail sentence of up to 5 years and a fine up to $5,000. Further, you could be at risk for losing your Florida driver’s license. With the help of a skilled attorney however, you may be able to avoid jail time by either having the possession charge dismissed, or negotiating a result that will keep you out of jail. Depending on the seriousness of your particular possession charge, you may be eligible for a diversion program and/or drug treatment program. Regardless of how serious you believe your situation is, it is never too soon to contact a criminal defense attorney.
Contact Tampa Drug Crimes Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. Today for a Free Consultation!
Most Americans take at least one prescription medication on a daily basis. As prescription rates have gone up over the years, so too has the sale and possession of legal controlled substances on the black market. It is important to always remember that Tampa prosecutors treat controlled substances like any other illegal drug when it comes to criminal charges and potential consequences of conviction. As such, it is imperative that you have a true advocate standing by your side.
Criminal defense attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. has the necessary skill and resources to help you fight your drug possession charge. With more than 15 years of experience, Mr. Joseph knows what to expect from Tampa prosecutors. There is simply too much at stake to defend a drug possession charge without the assistance of a qualified attorney.
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