Possession of Cocaine
In Florida, possession of cocaine is a third-degree felony with penalties that can lead to up five years of imprisonment. Under Florida law, cocaine is considered a “Schedule 2” substance. Section 893.13(6)(a) of Florida Statutes states an individual found to have cocaine is committing a third-degree felony. The punishment for this charge is up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. A conviction of cocaine possession will also include a two-year driver’s license suspension in the state of Florida. If you have been charged with possession of cocaine in Florida, you should contact an experienced attorney immediately. The Law Office of Ashley Aulls has the experienced attorneys to take your case.
Attorney for Possession of Cocaine in Brooksville, Florida
The state of Florida is known for its many issues of drug crimes. A conviction of possessing substances such as cocaine can result in many criminal consequences. If you were arrested for possession of cocaine, you should contact The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. to take your case. Defense attorney Ashley Aulls has the experience to handle all types of drug possession charges. Ashley Aulls has practiced law since 1996. He is devoted to helping you understand Florida’s drug laws and keeping an open communication for questions you may have. We serve clients throughout Hernando County, Citrus County, and Sumter County. Give us a call at (352) 593-4115 to schedule your consultation today.
Information Overview for Possession of Cocaine in Florida
- What is Considered Cocaine Possession
- Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Florida
- Defenses to Possession of Cocaine
- Additional Resources
What is Considered Cocaine Possession
In Florida, it’s forbidden to knowingly having a prohibited drug such as cocaine. The definition of possessing cocaine is when a person has the drug in their hand, bag, or container. Though cocaine is not as prevalent in Florida as before, there are still thousands of arrests for possession of cocaine. A conviction for possession is serious and could lead to a prison sentence in Florida. If the individual is not a U.S. citizen, he or she can be deported.
Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Florida
The penalties for a conviction of cocaine possession in Florida are dependent on the circumstances of the case. Under the Florida Statute of Section 893.13, possession of cocaine is a third-degree felony. The penalty is a maximum of five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. The minimum penalty involves probation, community service, and a substance abuse program. A conviction for cocaine possession can result in other non-criminal consequences such as loss of employment, divers’ license suspension, and loss of educational opportunities. Lastly, if you are not a United States citizen, a conviction will result in deportation.
Defenses to Possession of Cocaine
Cocaine possession is a highly defendable charge with many available defenses available. To prove someone is guilty of cocaine possession, the prosecutor must prove that a person knowingly possessed cocaine. The state is required to test the substance before trial. If the substance is something other than cocaine, you will be acquitted of your charge. If it is cocaine but did not know, you’re not legally guilty of the crime. Other defenses include no warrant in place, a search warrant was improperly executed, evidence was improperly handled, and no probable cause for a search.
Additional Resources
Cocaine Possession Statutes – The Florida Statutes showcase the penalties for various illegal substances such as cocaine. Take a detailed look at the various substances and the laws behind possessing them. Drug Possession – This section of FindLaw has plenty of information regarding the possession of drugs. Get a better understanding of what is required to prove possession of certain substances.
Lawyer for Cocaine Possession in Hernando County, Florida
If you have been charged with possession of cocaine, you must contact the appropriate attorney for your case. The consequences for drug charges can be severe if not handled appropriately. Find the right attorney at The Law Office of Ashley Aulls, P.A. that will take your case. Attorney Ashley Aulls has been representing people accused of drug crimes since 1996.
He can provide the most dedicated and assertive defense team possible for your case. We accept clients throughout the Hernando County area including, Weeki Wachee Gardens , High Point, Hernando Beach, Sugarmill Woods, Wildwood, and Bushnell. Give us a call at (352) 593-4115 to schedule your consultation today.