Defending Against Marijuana Possession Charges
The laws on marijuana possession are changing quickly. It’s hard to keep up with all these new laws, and it can be even more difficult if you’ve been charged with a marijuana possession crime. You need help to navigate these tricky waters so that you can focus on what matters most—your freedom.
The criminal defense attorney at Hersem Law has years of experience fighting drug charges, including marijuana possession. Your lawyer is ready to help you get the best possible outcome for your case and fight to keep your record clean so that you don’t suffer any long-term consequences.
Penalties for Marijuana Possession in Florida
Marijuana possession charges can have a lasting effect on your life. The penalties for marijuana possession are severe in Florida. These penalties may include hefty fines, long prison sentences, and even the revocation of certain professional licenses.
Know what penalties you may face if you’re charged with marijuana possession in Florida. These penalties depend on the amount of marijuana you’re charged with possessing, so talk to your lawyer if you’re facing any of the following charges:
- 20 Grams or Less – Possession of a small amount of marijuana without a medical marijuana designation is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail. You may also need to pay a fine of up to $1,000.
- More Than 20 Grams – Possession of a larger amount of marijuana is a felony and is punishable by up to five years in prison. Fines may increase, too, up to $5,000.
- Possession With Intent to Sell – This is a serious felony offense and is punishable by between five and fifteen years in prison. This does not include the fines and other penalties the judge may add to your sentence.
Any of these penalties will also leave a mark on your criminal record, which can impact your future in major ways. You may find it difficult to get approval for loans, get a job, or get housing with a criminal record.
Defense Strategies Against Marijuana Possession Charges
The defense of “I didn’t know” isn’t going to work with the judge, so your defense strategy is important. There are several legal strategies that may be helpful in defending against drug possession charges that we may employ on your behalf.
Your lawyer at Hersem Law will choose the best defense for your case, but here are just a few common defenses used for possession charges:
- Challenging the legality of the search or seizure under the Fourth Amendment
- Challenging probable cause or reasonable suspicion
- Determining whether the police officers engaged in entrapment
- Challenging the admissibility of evidence provided by an anonymous informant
- Negotiating with the prosecutor for a lesser offense
Your defense will depend on the details of your case, so reach out to a lawyer for the guidance you’re due in these cases. An attorney will determine your best course of action after an arrest.
Seek Out a Strong Defense with a Marijuana Attorney
We strive to give each client personalized attention throughout their entire case so that we can develop an aggressive defense strategy for them. If you’ve been arrested for marijuana possession, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer who knows how to fight these charges.
At Hersem Law, we understand that these types of allegations can be stressful, but your lawyer is here to help. Contact us online or call 813-251-7291 to speak to a lawyer during a free strategy session about your case.
