Orlando Cannabis Possession Attorneys

Cannabis, also referred to as marijuana, is a Schedule I controlled substance in the state of Florida. Those in possession of any amount of cannabis without a valid prescription will face criminal charges that may be considered a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of marijuana possessed. A misdemeanor is considered less serious than a felony offense, however both can impact your freedom, career and other areas of your life if found guilty. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our cannabis possession lawyers are committed to helping those accused of the possession of cannabis achieve the best possible outcome.

Possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis in Florida is typically charged as a first-degree misdemeanor. If you are found in possession of more than 20 grams you may face felony charges. It is important for anyone who faces drug charges to understand that you are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and that you must act immediately to protect your legal rights. Police can say anything they like when interrogating a suspect in an effort to get the accused to say things that may be incriminating; they often lie to get suspects to buckle under pressure and admit to crimes they did not commit. This is why it is so important to consult with an Orlando cannabis defense attorney as soon as you have been arrested or suspect you are under investigation.

The penalties an individual will face if convicted of possession of cannabis depend on several factors, including the amount of marijuana possessed. These penalties include:

Possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis

• A maximum of one (1) year in jail
• A maximum of one (1) year of probation
• $1,000 fine

Possession of 20 grams or more of cannabis

• A maximum of five (5) years in prison
• A maximum of five (5) years of probation
• $5,000 fine

As you can see, the punishment can be life-changing for those found guilty. Additionally, a conviction for possession of cannabis or marijuana will result in revocation of your driving privilege for a period of one year.

In any criminal case the state must prove certain elements of the offense in order for the defendant to be found guilty. There are several defense strategies often used to fight charges in these types of cases depending on the facts of each individual case. Some include:

• Mistaken identity
• Lack of sufficient evidence
• Illegal search and seizure
• Entrapment
• Lack of knowledge
• Constructive possession
• Failure of law enforcement to Mirandize upon arrest

Often times those accused of possession of cannabis offenses may not realize the substance in their possession is illegal, especially if friends are involved. Prosecutors may not have adequate evidence for proving guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Police and law enforcement officials often engage in activities designed to "trap" those they suspect of wrong doing. It may be a case of mistaken identity, or police may have conducted an illegal search without obtaining a warrant. Police must read a defendant his or her Miranda rights upon arrest. Whatever your circumstances, our defense attorneys will work vigorously to have charges dismissed or reduced, or to secure an acquittal should your case go to trial.

A conviction will result in a criminal record that can negatively impact your future in more ways than you know. Every person has legal rights that must be protected from the beginning. Regardless of whether you have been arrested for possession of cannabis as a juvenile, or are an adult who may have a prior criminal conviction, you want an attorney who is aggressive and dedicated to developing a strong legal defense while exploring all possible options.

Possession of cannabis charges should be taken seriously, as your freedom, reputation and future may be in jeopardy. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando cannabis possession attorneys give your case the personal attention and dedication you deserve. Our goal is to have charges dismissed when possible, or reduced in order to mitigate the damaging consequences. Should your case go to trial we will fight vigorously in order to avoid a conviction. Contact our law firm today for a free consultation.

Reference - Florida Statute 893.13