Marijuana-Related Crimes
Some states have legalized recreational marijuana possession and usage. However, it remains a crime in Florida except for those with a physician’s order for medicinal use. Florida legalized the use of medical marijuana in 2016. Those cited with a drug charge, such as the possession, sale, growing of marijuana, or related crimes, could be facing steep fines, the loss of a driver’s license, and possibly even jail time. Therefore, they must have an experienced drug crime lawyer, one who can provide damage control and who will work toward having the charges against them dismissed or reduced.
At Alba & Straile PLLC, we represent clients on all criminal charges related to cannabis. We are experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorneys. We review our clients’ charges and help them make an informed decision about their options. Our attorneys represent those accused in Florida who face drug charges involving cocaine, heroin, meth, or marijuana. We can determine if our clients qualify for a drug treatment program and direct them to programs in the area. This option might result in dropped charges or better results.
Penalties for a Marijuana Conviction
A drug conviction can result in stiff penalties, depending on the details and circumstances of the crime. Marijuana laws in Florida include misdemeanor and felony charges.
Penalties are:
- Possession of 20 grams or less: up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1000
- Possession of more than 20 grams: up to five years in jail and a fine of up to $5,000
- Sale, delivery, or cultivation of other amounts up to 25 pounds: up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
- Sale, delivery, or cultivation of more than 25 pounds: mandatory sentence of three or more years and at least $25,000
College Students are Vulnerable to Drug Crime Arrests
The availability of drugs on college campuses brings a greater risk for students to encounter a marijuana arrest. College students who have been caught or accused of selling or possessing marijuana or other illegal drugs may feel like they are backed into a corner with no way out. In addition to other problems, an arrest brings potential actions by the Dean of Students in a Conduct Code Proceeding. The firm has represented many university students who are concerned about getting a conviction. The stigma surrounding cannabis has curbed somewhat socially. However, a conviction will bring collateral damage that impacts student life, the family, and future career and educational opportunities.
We Protect the Rights of our Clients
At Alba & Straile, PLLC, we offer guidance and will be there to help through the legal process. We work toward avoiding a conviction through a case dismissal and otherwise work toward the best result possible. Each case is different, and we treat them accordingly. If you face a drug charge for marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, or any other illegal substance, call to speak with our drug crime defense attorneys. We will begin to plan strategies for the case to build a solid defense for you.
Our investigation will explore whether the evidence obtained resulted from an illegal stop and search by law enforcement personnel. In addition, we examine the chain of custody, which details how the substance was handled and stored. Other areas to investigate are the cannabis lab report to determine any errors in identifying or weighing the substance. These are just a few of the steps in our thorough investigation. You have the right to be presumed innocent until your guilt is proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Alba & Straile PLLC are Florida’s Marijuana Defense Attorneys
Our attorneys provide sound legal representation to effectively and efficiently address all of your legal needs. We are committed to compassionate legal services, attention to detail, and attorney accessibility. In addition, we accommodate our clients’ needs for flexible scheduling of appointments. A live person answers our telephone 24 hours a day. Contact Alba & Straile PLLC at (352) 371-9141 to schedule a consultation.