Florida Statute Section 893.13(6)(a) makes it a third-degree felony to possess hydrocodone, also known as Vicodin, Lortab, or Norco, in amounts of less than 14 grams without a valid prescription. Hydrocodone is often prescribed for pain, but is highly addictive due to the euphoric effects many patients and abusers experience with the Schedule II controlled substance. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando drug crimes defense attorneys know that individuals are often arrested for or charged with crimes they did not commit. If you are facing criminal allegations related to the possession of hydrocodone, it is imperative you consult with a skilled and dedicated defense lawyer immediately in order to protect your legal rights and future.
Hydrocodone Possession Penalties in FloridaThe penalties if convicted or found guilty of possession of hydrocodone are severe and may include any combination of the following:
Those convicted on felony charges also face other consequences that will impact their lives if convicted. Your driver's license will be be revoked for one year by the Florida DHSMV, pursuant to Florida Statute Section 322.055. Additionally, a conviction will show on your criminal record; this will negatively impact employment opportunities, housing and securing a student loan.
Potential Defenses to Possession of Hydrocodone Charges in OrlandoThe defense strategy that will prove most effective in any criminal case depends on the facts of a particular case. Some of the most commonly used defenses in a hydrocodone possession case include:
It may be that you did not realize the substance in your possession was hydrocodone, or that it was illegal. In some circumstances there may be several people who could have had access to or possession of the drug, and you were not in actual possession of hydrocodone. Police often go beyond what is lawful, conducting illegal searches or seizures which violates your 4th Amendment rights. You may have a valid prescription written by a doctor and law enforcement officials jumped to conclusions. No matter what the situation, if charges cannot be dismissed and you make the decision to go forward to trial to prove your innocence there are defenses available to support your innocence and hopefully avoid a conviction. Our Orlando drug crimes defense lawyers work vigorously to secure positive results in every case we represent.
When accused of hydrocodone possession in Florida it is important to know that if you are found in possession of 14 grams or more of the controlled substance, you could be charged with trafficking. This is a more serious charge that will result in as many as 25 years in prison and up to $750,000 in fines depending on the amount of hydrocodone involved. Trafficking is a first-degree felony which will also result in the revocation of your driving privilege along with suspension of any professional license authorized by the state of Florida permitting you to practice in a certain trade or profession.
Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton ImmediatelyWhen accused of possession of hydrocodone in Florida there are several options available even when charges cannot be dismissed or reduced, or you do not desire to proceed forth to trial. Some of the options depending on the circumstances of your case may include pre-trial intervention, drug court, withholding of adjudication. For most people facing drug charges the criminal justice system is extremely confusing and complex; it is never a good idea to think you can go it alone and achieve a positive outcome.
At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our Orlando drug crimes defense lawyers are highly skilled and knowledgeable when it comes to crimes involving illegal controlled substances. Our goal first and foremost is to protect you from harsh penalties and potential loss of your freedom while protecting your legal rights. Contact us online or call our legal team today at 407-872-0307 for a free consultation regarding your situation.
I would like thank my attorney Thomas Luka. I knew from the beginning I had the right guy in my corner. While celebrating with family and friends at a Public Park in Seminole County, a fight broke out among various people. Myself, and a good friend, broke up the fight and the instigators left. Six months later, I was wrongly accused as the person who started the fight. The first attorney I hired could not even get a response from the State Attorney handling the case. Someone referred me to Tom and I felt comfortable at his demeanor and reactions.
After conversations with Tom, who knew I would settle for nothing less than a FULL DISMISSAL due to my innocence, I hired him. His firm Adams, Luka, & Benton did the due diligence by interviewing witnesses and the police who were on the scene, as well as starting a dialogue with the State Attorney. After gathering statements from witnesses, Tom was able to present a strong argument on my behalf to the State Attorney on why the case should be dismissed. If the State Attorney was not willing to dismiss the case, Tom was ready to take the case to trial.
The result by Thomas Luka: Case Dismissed.
I am 53 years old with a spotless record and glad to keep it that way thanks to the time, effort, hard work, and professionalism of Adams, Luka, & Benton.