Are you facing drug charges in Florida? You are not alone. Drug arrests in the Florida Keys can feel overwhelming and even frightening, especially if you know you have not done anything wrong.
Even if you are innocent, do not go to court alone. A dedicated Key West drug lawyer could provide guidance, clarity, and strong legal representation during this otherwise difficult time. Contact the skilled defense attorneys at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC today.
As an attorney can further detail, the most common drug offenses in Key West include:
Fla. Stat. § 893.03 provides an overview of the state’s drug schedules that distinguish between misdemeanor and felony charges. For instance, marijuana falls under a different drug schedule than a prescription drug like Valium.
First-time marijuana possession, for example, may seem minor, but a conviction can result in a criminal record that follows you for life. The legal penalties for Florida drug convictions include fines, probation, jail, and prison time. In some cases, the state may consider suspending your driver’s license or requiring the completion of a mandatory drug education or rehabilitation program. No two cases are exactly alike, meaning nobody should approach their case as if it will resolve in the same way another did.
There are also collateral consequences associated with drug convictions. For instance, a conviction can impact employment, housing, and educational opportunities. For those who are not citizens, even a seemingly minor conviction of marijuana possession can create immigration difficulties. Those who hold professional licenses can lose their ability to work in their chosen fields, including teaching and nursing.
When crafting a defense, a lawyer will investigate the arrest, looking for any discrepancies in the legality of the stop, search, and seizure. A lawyer will also look for opportunities to challenge warrantless searches or violations of Miranda rights. Based on the information found, a Key West drug attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or negotiate for reduced charges.
If your case does go to trial, your lawyer will construct a defense that spurs reasonable doubt in the jurors or the judge. For drug-related offenses, this could mean highlighting your lack of intent to use or lack of control over the substance.
Our firm is dedicated to taking a personalized approach to client-focused advocacy. We listen to your concerns, stay in touch, and treat you like more than a case file. If you are facing charges, call a Key West drug lawyer. Our team offers free consultations to review your charges and discuss a plan of action. This offense does not have to define your future. Contact us today to get started.
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