Possession of marijuana under 20 grams is a misdemeanor offense in Florida punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.More importantly, a conviction for possession of marijuana carries a mandatory two (2) year revocation of your driver’s license! Therefore, it is imperative that you do not simply plea guilty or no contest to the charge!
If you are charged with felony possession of marijuana, you are facing a minimum of up to five years in prison and at least a fine of up to $5,000, as well as a mandatory suspension of your license.
Possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemenaor offense that is punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine, however it does NOT carry a mandatory license suspension.
If you have been charged with any of these offenses, it is important that you contact an attorney immediately to discuss the possible defenses in your case. When reviewing your case, your attorney will look into the following issues to try to determine if a defense can be raised:
– Were you stopped illegally?
– What was the reason for the stop?
– Were you illegally searched?
– Did you consent to the search?
– Were you read your Miranda rights?
– Were you unlawfully detained?
– Was the marijuana in your actual possession or simply in the vehicle?
Your attorney may also be able to negotiate an agreement with the State Attorney’s Office where you can plea to a “withhold” of adjudication, meaning no formal conviction, which would help you avoid any license suspension. You may also be able to seal your record after accepting such a plea deal.
Call today if you have any questions or concerns. An attorney with our firm will provide you with a free consultation.