Free Legal Defense Case Evaluation on Florida Cocaine Drug Possession Charges
Whether you’ve been arrested before or if this is the first time, being charged with cocaine possession in Florida is a difficult experience, and it isn’t something that gets easier with experience. The penalties can be far harsher if you have a criminal history or past drug possession convictions. With a local defense lawyer on your side, you may be able to avoid the most serious penalties as you have someone advocating on your behalf in order to get you the best results possible.
Florida law enforcement and courts take cocaine charges very seriously. Leftover from the heydays of the cocaine trade, the general view of cocaine addicts is a very negative one. If you are caught in possession of cocaine or merely suspected of cocaine possession, you can expect to be treated as an addict and a criminal long before you have your day in court.
An aggressive defense lawyer understands how it can feel to face the local prosecutor and be met with disdain. They understand that the repercussions of such charges can reach far beyond jail time and fines—they can change your entire life.
Florida Cocaine Possession Penalties
Possession of cocaine, under Florida law, is considered a 3rd degree felony charge. This is a very serious criminal charge as it means a conviction will result in you carrying around a felony record indefinitely. In addition, a conviction can result in:
- 5 years in prison
- $5,000 in fines
- Probation
- 2 year driver’s license suspension
Not all charges result in a conviction.
The vast majority of Florida cocaine possession cases result in a plea agreement. Oftentimes, the defendant receives probation in lieu of prison time. Probation for a drug offense isn’t always easy but is usually far preferable to being locked up.
The terms of your probation will depend on the facts of your case, the judge, and your probation officer. Typically, they include things like:
- Random drug testing
- Drug treatment
- Required employment or school
- Regular meetings with a probation officer
- Community service
Florida Drug Courts
Florida also has a system of drug courts, designed specifically to cater to people who are charged with nonviolent drug crimes like cocaine possession. These courts take a comprehensive approach in getting drug offenders help in hopes of reducing the likelihood that you’ll reoffend. They include an intense supervision period, similar to probation. Your eligibility for drug court participation depends largely on the jurisdiction in which you are facing the possession charges.
When you are accused of possessing cocaine, it can feel like no one has your best interests in mind—that you are just another druggie in their book. But, a local criminal defense attorney is there to be your partner, looking out for your rights when your back is against the wall.
Free Criminal Defense Case Evaluation on Florida Cocaine Drug Laws
Call our Florida defense lawyers now to talk about any cocaine possession or other drug related criminal charge in Florida. We will offer you a case evaluation on your legal defense options, answer any questions you may have, and give you an honest assessment of what may happen to you, and the most likely results in your specific circumstances.
Then you can make an informed decision as to how to proceed. You can decide whether you want to fight the charges, or work out a plea deal for a no contest. Whatever you decide to do, we can help.
Call (877) 394-6959 for no obligation legal defense advice from an experienced Florida lawyer who knows how to fight cociane possession charges in Florida courts. Call today.