Florida statute section 893.13(1)(a)(1) makes it a criminal offense to possess methamphetamine in any amount. Additionally, possessing any chemical listed in the drug schedule with the intent to manufacture is a second-degree felony under Florida statute 893.149. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando drug crimes defense attorneys know how relentless law enforcement and prosecutors can be when it comes to the possession of illegal substances such as methamphetamine. We work aggressively to obtain the best possible result for every client, whether it may be possible to have charges dismissed or reduced, or go forward to trial. In some circumstances it can be advantageous to accept a plea deal. We keep our clients informed and up-to-date regarding the criminal justice system in an effort to protect your freedom, reputation and future.
Methamphetamine Possession in FloridaFrequently referred to as Crystal Meth or simply Meth, methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance that will leave those found in possession of less than 14 grams facing third-degree felony charges due to its limited use in medical treatment and high potential for abuse and addiction. If the amount involved is more than 14 grams, you could face trafficking charges which are even more serious. It is important to know that the amount of meth you are accused of possessing is determined by the weight of a mixture containing the substance, and not the weight of pure methamphetamine on its own.
Penalties if Convicted of Methamphetamine Possession in FloridaThe criminal penalties you will face if found guilty of possession of methamphetamine are severe and may include:
Additionally, if convicted your driving privilege will be revoked by the Florida DHSMV for a period of one year. Those found guilty will also have a criminal record that will affect other areas of their lives including employment, housing, and even the ability to obtain a student loan. It is vital to consult with an Orlando drug crimes attorney who will investigate your arrest, protect your legal rights and keep you informed throughout the process while helping you make the best legal decisions in an effort to avoid prison time and other punishment.
Common Defenses to Accusations of Methamphetamine PossessionThose accused of any criminal offense have various defense strategies that may prove effective when fighting criminal charges. If you are arrested or charged with possessing meth, some of the most common defenses include but are not limited to:
Police and other law enforcement officers often engage in activities that are unlawful, such as illegal search and seizure. You may not have been aware the substance in your possession was illegal, or it may have been found by police in an area where a person or people other than you had access to the methamphetamine.
It is not uncommon for police to lie and use other forceful tactics in an effort to break the alleged offender down and get information that may be helpful to the state, even if this information is not factual or true. Invoke your right to remain silent and request the presence of your defense lawyer immediately, as what you say will absolutely be used against you.
Many criminal defense attorneys in Florida automatically choose to go with a plea deal, however this is not the best option in every case. A skilled defense lawyer with our team is experienced and possesses the insight and knowledge critical to fighting the charges should your case go to trial utilizing the best possible defense options according to your unique circumstances. In the event a plea agreement is the best option, we work tirelessly to secure alternatives to prison time such as rehabilitation, as this is always a more positive path forward than imprisonment and punishment.
Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton NowPolice and prosecutors work vigorously to bring those suspected of drug crimes down, regardless of their innocence or guilt. When you are accused of methamphetamine possession you should take it seriously, as the punishment is severe and a conviction could leave you with a stigma that follows you throughout your life. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando meth possession defense attorneys give you the personal attention and dedicated approach you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at 407-872-0307.
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.