Drug Possession Lawyer Ocala
In the 1980s, Florida’s government passed some of the toughest drug laws in the country. It hoped to address the influx of illicit substances passing through the various ports and dissuade citizens from possessing them. While Florida has come a long way since then, the law remains: if you’re caught in possession of an illicit substance, you can face fines, prison time, and threats to your day-to-day life.
In a situation like this, you want an Ocala drug possession lawyer to represent you. The simple fact that you’ve been arrested doesn’t mean you are guilty. You have the right to fight the charges you face. Meldon Law understands how to attack drug possession charges and gives you the best possible shot at preserving your freedom.
Call (352) 373-8000 to connect with our client-centered firm.
How Our Drug Possession Lawyers Fight Charges in Ocala
It’s not uncommon for police and prosecutors to make you think your case is beyond help after a drug arrest. They often come down extra hard during the post-arrest interrogation in the hopes that you will incriminate yourself or just agree to a “lesser” charge in exchange for cooperation. What they don’t tell you is the “lesser” charge was the only one they wanted to convict you of in the first place.
However, the reality is there are numerous potential defenses against drug possession charges, and the criminal defense attorneys at Meldon Law are familiar with all of them. Your lawyer will mount the defense that most effectively refutes the allegations in your case. We could argue that:
You’re Innocent
We can argue that you were not in possession of drugs at the time of your arrest. This may involve interviewing witnesses, referencing a drug test, and reviewing how the police collected evidence.
You Were the Victim of Entrapment
Sometimes, the police try too hard to get arrests. So, they may pose undercover as drug dealers and pressure people into buying drugs. This is illegal, and it’s known as “entrapment.” Here, we would allege that you wouldn’t have engaged in illicit activity had it not been for the undercover officer’s tactics.
The Police Did Not Properly Gather Evidence
Every criminal case needs evidence to secure a “guilty” verdict. However, the police sometimes improperly collect evidence that isn’t admissible in court. For instance, if you were searched without a warrant or probable cause, we could have any evidence collected dismissed. This could weaken the prosecution’s case and possibly warrant a dismissal of your charges.
As our client, you can rest assured we will put the full benefit of our experience and resources into mounting the most effective defense possible against the charges in your case.
What to Know About Ocala Drug Possession Charges
Drug possession charges can vary widely. They can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the type of drug and your intent. Crimes involving prescription drugs, meth, heroin, and cocaine can lead to felony charges, especially when there are large amounts involved.
Possession with the intent to sell can bring even harsher charges than simple possession charges. The prosecution will look at evidence such as possession of a large amount of drugs—too much for personal use—as well as large amounts of cash and packaging materials.
When charging you with a drug possession crime, the prosecution will look at three main elements:
- The illegal nature of the drug
- Your knowledge of the drug
- Your control of the drug
We craft a defense based on your circumstances. When it feels like the world is against you, Meldon Law is on your side.
What Types of Charges Do Our Drug Possession Lawyers Fight?
Your Ocala drug possession lawyer can represent you in any case involving possession of a controlled substance. No matter whether you are charged with “simple” possession or a more serious charge, like possession with intent to distribute, we have experience fighting and winning cases like yours.
Examples of some of the drug possession cases we’ve fought in the past have involved:
- Cannabis
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamines
- Prescription painkillers
- Psychedelic drugs (e.g., mushrooms, LSD)
- Synthetic drugs (e.g., ecstasy)
You Could Face These Penalties if Convicted in Ocala, FL
Drug possession charges can vary from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the type of drug and amount in your possession. For marijuana, having up to 20 grams of marijuana in your possession would be considered a first-degree misdemeanor.
The punishment may be up to one year in jail. The charges increase to a third-degree felony, which is punishable by five years in prison, when a person has:
- More than 20 grams of marijuana
- Up to 28 grams of cocaine
- Up to 10 grams of MDMA
- Up to four grams of opiates or heroin
- Up to one gram of LSD
Larger quantities come with the most severe penalties. A person can face a first-degree felony if they are in possession of:
- More than 25 pounds of marijuana
- 28 grams of cocaine
- Four grams of opiate or heroin
- 10 grams of MDMA or ecstasy
- One gram of LSD
The penalties for a first-degree felony include 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. This type of offense also comes with mandatory minimum sentences, which will vary based on the type of drug and the amount. We aim to protect you from any charge that could derail your life.
Start Your Case Consultation With Our Ocala Drug Possession Team
An arrest for drug possession is one of the most serious situations you will ever face in life. The outcome of your trial will have after-effects that you’ll feel for decades. When the stakes are this high, it only makes sense to give yourself the best possible chance at a positive outcome. That’s what Meldon Law is here to provide for you. However, we don’t just want you to take our word for it. Come talk to us and see what we can do for you.
Meldon Law offers free case consultations with our drug possession lawyers in Ocala. Simply contact our office, and we can listen to your concerns. We’re confident you will feel heard, and, more importantly, respected by our team. Call (352) 373-8000 to begin.
