Possession with Intent to Sell Cocaine Attorney in Tavares, FL

Drug crimes are common in Tavares, and the Lake County defense attorney you choose can mean the difference between severe punishment and your freedom.  If you have been charged with possession with intent to sell cocaine in Tavares, it is urgent you consult with a skilled lawyer immediately.  Simple possession of cocaine or other illicit substances can quickly be transformed into possession with intent charges, which results in potential prison time, fines, and more.  If you have been arrested or are being investigated, we invite you to contact Adams, Luka, & Benton immediately for unparalleled legal guidance and support.

Regardless of the illegal drug or substance, possession of a drug is a far less serious offense than possession with intent to sell, deliver, or distribute (in other words, possession for commercial use).  In Florida, possessing cocaine for your own use because you are addicted is viewed much more sympathetically than possessing cocaine because you intend to sell it for profit.  Additionally, it is important to note that police and prosecutors often turn what would be a possession charge into a possession with intent charge due to the amount of drug in question and other alleged evidence discovered upon investigating.

Penalties for Possession with Intent to Sell Cocaine

In the state of Florida, possession of cocaine with the intent to sell or deliver is a second-degree felony that under the state's Criminal Punishment code is assigned in terms of severity ranking as Level 5.  If found guilty, the judge may impose any of the following penalties or a combination thereof:

1. Maximum fines of up to $10,000
2. Maximum of 15 years of probation
3. Maximum of 15 years in prison

Penalties may also be enhanced based on other factors including criminal history, and those convicted will lose their driving privilege for a period of one year.  If you hold a professional license for your profession, this license may also be subject to suspension.  Anyone who is found guilty of a drug crime will also have a permanent criminal record which can follow you for the rest of your life, and negatively impact various aspects of your life including job opportunities, housing, loan eligibility, and more.

Defenses Against Allegations of Cocaine Possession with Intent to Sell in Tavares

There are a wide array of effective defenses experienced attorneys have at their disposal, depending on the facts of each individual case.  Some of the most common include, but are not limited to:

1. Personal use
2. Lack of knowledge
3. Constructive possession
4. Illegal search and seizure

Police must follow proper protocol, however many times law enforcement personnel violate a person's legal rights or perform a search that is not legal.  Police step outside of boundaries on a frequent basis, and evidence obtained when they do may be thrown out of court.  Perhaps you were not aware of what the substance you were in possession of was, or that it was illegal.  Maybe you possessed cocaine strictly for your own personal use.  Regardless of the circumstances, our Tavares drug crime defense lawyers are ready to fight for the best possible results in your case.

Contact Adams, Luka, & Benton Right Away
When you are facing serious drug charges it is important to protect your legal rights and know your legal options.  At Adams, Luka, & Benton, we provide you with the guidance and legal support essential to obtaining the best possible outcome, regardless of whether your case goes to trial.  If you have been charged with possession with intent to sell cocaine do not hesitate before contacting our firm.  We urge you to contact us now for a free consultation.