Marijuana use has become legal in many states. Florida, however, has not yet taken that step. While it is legal to use if a person has a qualified medical condition like cancer or glaucoma, there can still be legal problems if they have it for recreational use. Some of those penalties can be severe.
For some people, the marijuana-related criminal allegations they might face in the Sunshine State could be felonies. That can result in harsh penalties including hefty fines and jail time. If there is an investigation and arrest for felony marijuana charges, it is essential to know how to craft a comprehensive defense to avoid the worst consequences.
Know which marijuana crimes can be charged as felonies
Florida has extensive laws to address illegal drugs. Often, people who are arrested on marijuana charges function under the impression that they are treated less seriously than drugs like fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine. Still, the penalties can be just as significant.
The amount in possession can rise to a felony if it exceeds a certain level. Twenty grams or less is a misdemeanor. But 20 grams or more rises to a felony. For example, those who have 20 grams can be incarcerated for five years and fined $5,000. The penalties increase commensurately with the amount. Selling or delivering marijuana within 1,000 feet of places where young people generally congregate such as a school or park could result in between three and 15 years in prison and fines of $200,000.
People who are accused of trafficking marijuana can be confronted with felony charges as well. Like possession, the amounts dictate the severity of the penalties for a conviction. Those who are trafficking a significant amount of 10,000 pounds or more could be incarcerated for between 15 and 30 years and fined $200,000.
Fighting felony marijuana charges is key to avoid long-term problems
Florida has maintained its hard line against drugs despite growing flexibility in other states and even at the federal level. In some instances, people function under the impression that marijuana is no longer a serious crime, and any arrest will be treated as a low-level violation. It is only when the reality of the situation comes to light do they realize the litany of challenges they will face.
It is important to act quickly in understanding the charges and trying to find ways to combat them. Having caring, professional assistance can be fundamental to seeking and achieving a positive outcome. Perhaps the investigation was conducted in a way that violated the person’s rights. They could have been caught up in a situation they were not deeply involved with and were unaware of what was happening.
Any criminal charge can have an impact on a person’s entire life. That goes beyond the possibility of jail and fines, but extends to obstacles in getting certain jobs, attending school, finding a suitable place to live, and more. From the start, it is useful to have guidance with crafting a criminal defense. That is the first step when arrested for any crime, particularly felony marijuana charges.