Orlando Possession of Xanax (Alprazolam) Attorneys

Alprazolam, often referred to as Xanax, is a Schedule IV drug used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Unless prescribed by a doctor, possessing this drug which is classified as a benzodiazepine is typically a third-degree felony. Felony drug crimes are punished more harshly than those charged as misdemeanors, and will leave you with a black mark on your criminal record if found guilty. A conviction will impact your employment, job opportunities, professional license, reputation, housing opportunities and other areas of your life. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando drug crimes defense attorneys work vigorously to protect your legal rights and explore all legal options that may work to your advantage.

Even when you have a legitimate prescription for Alprazolam or Xanax, you may still face charges for illegal possession if you have the substance contained in a pill box, napkin or other container or material that is not the original prescription bottle. Individuals are often charged with possession if they have obtained Xanax by:

• Doctor shopping
• Obtaining a prescription in a fraudulent manner
• Forging a prescription
• Buying it off the street

You may also be charged with this drug offense if you are in possession of Alprazolam for the purpose of selling. While this is a substance that is accepted for medical use in Florida with a relatively low potential for abuse compared to other drugs, a conviction can be life-changing. Most employers perform criminal background checks, which could impact job opportunities. Housing or securing a student loan may also be affected if you are found guilty of a drug crime. Florida Statute 893.13 outlines the laws and punishments related to possession charges.

As mentioned earlier, this is typically a third-degree felony crime. If found guilty of possession of Xanax the punishment an individual may face includes:

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

Additionally, anyone convicted of this Level 3 offense may have their driving privilege revoked for a period of one year by the Florida DHSMV.

In any criminal case the most effect defense depends on the specific facts of the case, criminal history of the defendant, and other factors. When accused of possession of Alprazolam or Xanax some of the most common defense strategies include:

• Temporary possession
• Illegal search and seizure
• Constructive possession
• Prescription defense
• Lack of knowledge
• Legal disposal

Perhaps you were in possession of Xanax for a short period of time with the intent to dispose of the substance which you must have been legally in possession of. Maybe several people had access to the Alprazolam other than you, and you were not aware of its presence or did not have control/dominion over the drug. Police often perform searches that are unlawful or seize drugs without proper authority. There are various defenses that often prove successful in fighting drug possession charges depending on the circumstances of each individual case. You may even have a legitimate prescription for the drug. Law enforcement officials are often over-zealous in their efforts to bring down those they suspect are involved in illegal drug activity.

While Xanax (Alprazolam) is a Schedule IV drug which means it is accepted for medical use and has a lower potential for abuse than other substances, a conviction will still result in punishment that will not only steal your freedom, but leave you with a criminal record and possibly a stigma that will follow you throughout your life. At Adams, Luka, & Benton our Orlando Xanax possession defense firm is dedicated to providing you with the best legal support and guidance available today. By thoroughly analyzing your case and exploring all possible legal options, we will reach the best possible result in your case. Contact us now for a free consultation at 407-872-0307.