How Much Trouble Can You Get In For Drug Possession In Florida?

If you are arrested for drug possession in Miami, you may be wondering how much trouble you are really in for. Florida has some of the toughest drug laws in the country, and the potential penalties can be extremely high depending on your specific circumstances and history with the law.

If you are facing drug possession charges in Florida, it is crucial to understand the severity of the offense and what penalties you may be facing. An experienced Miami drug lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system and protect your rights.

What is considered drug possession, and when does it become trafficking?

Generally, drug possession refers to having controlled substances like marijuana, cocaine, or heroin in your possession without a prescription. However, depending on the amount of the drug in question, possession can become trafficking.

  • If you are caught with less than 20 grams of marijuana (except medical marijuana), you will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor and face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
  • If you have between 20 grams and 25 pounds of marijuana or up to 28 grams of cocaine, 10 grams of MDMA/ecstasy, 1 gram of LSD, and 4 grams of heroin/opiate, it is considered a third-degree felony. This is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
  • Possession of more than 25 pounds of marijuana, 28 grams of cocaine, 10 grams of MDMA/ecstasy, 1 gram of LSD, and 4 grams of heroin/opiate is considered trafficking. This is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in jail and a $250,000 fine.

Conclusion

Drug possession, whether it is with intent to sell or with intent to use, is illegal in Florida. But how much trouble you get into depends on what kind of drug and how much of it you are caught with. Again, when facing drug possession charges in Florida, it is important to understand the severity of the charges against you and what you can do to protect your rights. An experienced Miami criminal law firm can help you understand the charges against you and work to get them reduced or dismissed.