With so many states taking steps to legalize marijuana, possession of the substance is becoming more and more common. But Florida has not yet made the leap to legalization, and possession remains a crime. The range of punishment if you are caught with marijuana depends on several factors, one of which being the quantity possessed. If the amount is less than 20 grams, the offense is a misdemeanor. The idea of being charged with a misdemeanor does not usually conjure up serious punishment in the minds of most people, but when talking about possession of marijuana, the consequences can be severe.

 

Possession can be the actual possession of the substance, or possession by another while under your control and within your knowledge. The charge is serious, but not impossible to defend. A good starting point when developing a defense is understanding the possible outcomes. Three possible punishments for possession of marijuana in Florida include:

 

  • Jail time to serve.
  • Agreeing to go on probation for a period of time.
  • Loss of your driver’s license and the right to drive.

Any of these three things can wreak havoc on your daily schedule, and require you to make adjustments to your routine. Any time significant change to your activities is necessary, it can be hard. For instance, if you lose your right to drive you will have to rely on friends or family, or find reliable public transportation to get you to where you need to go. If you are placed on probation, you will be expected to stay out of trouble and to follow other rules. If you fail to abide by the terms of your probation you can face the full weight of the punishment for the crime as well as be made to answer for the crime of violating probation. The result may be jail time, which takes away your freedom. We have experience helping people who have been charged with drug crimes, and can help you too. Call us today for more information.

For answers to questions about possession charges, call an experienced criminal defense attorney today. Skilled criminal defense attorneys in Stuart and the Treasure Coast are here to help you reach workable solutions. Your first visit is a free initial consultation.