Please read this before going any further: I do not represent confidential informants, and I will not represent you if that is your plan to get yourself out of trouble.
Any arrest can be a nightmare, but a drug arrest is terrifying and humiliating. When someone is arrested for possession of a controlled substance, people automatically assume the worst. What really is personal use possession can cast a light that you are a drug dealer or a bad person deserving punishment.
Nothing is further from the truth. Drug arrests happen to good people. Don’t carry this burden alone. If you have been arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance in Ft. Walton Beach you need someone that has experience fighting felony drug charges.
I’m Tim Flaherty. I have been defending locals, military members, and vacationers accused of drug charges in Ft. Walton Beach since 2001. My partner’s name is Brandy Merrifield. If we are entrusted with your defense, you will be informed about your case, have your questions answered and know that you have an experienced felony defense team in your corner fighting to protect your future.
Call Flaherty & Merrifield today at (850) 243-6097. There is no charge for the call.
Possession of a Controlled Substance is a Felony Under Florida Law
Drugs are defined in schedules in Florida. These schedules determine the penalties and fines for drug convictions. The penalties are determined by the type of drugs, amount of drugs and any aggravating factor that may be involved. One significant aggravating factor is whether there was an intent to distribute the drugs to others.
According to Florida Statutes 893.13, possession of a controlled substance for any reason without a valid prescription is illegal. The most common controlled substance arrests in Ft. Walton Beach are:
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
- Methamphetamine (Meth)
- Codeine
- LSD (Acid)
- Percocet
- Xanax
- Valium
- Oxycontin
Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalties
Possession of a Controlled Substance is a felony. The penalty can range from 5 to 30 years in prison. Some drug charges even carry mandatory minimum sentences. A felony conviction can ruin your life and prevent you from work, school or even volunteering at your kid’s school. Do not take this charge lightly.
Since all drug cases are different, you need a Fort Walton Beach criminal defense attorney that understands the law, knows the prosecutors and judges, and has experience in successfully resolving drug arrests.
Defending Possession of a Controlled Substance Charges
Drug charges are difficult. They leave a stigma that can haunt you and your family. Some drug cases come from substance abuse illness and other come from personal use. Our job is to understand your needs and your goals for the future. In defending possession of a controlled substance charges, we will explore all options available to you which include:
- Reviewing all evidence;
- Analysis of all legal issues that may lead to the filing of a Motion to Dismiss or a Motion to Suppress Evidence;
- Interview witnesses and law enforcement;
- Explore ways to resolve your case that protect your freedom, your record, and your career.
Contact an Okaloosa County Drug Crimes Attorney
If you or a loved one have been charged with a drug crime in Okaloosa County, call Flaherty & Merrifield today at (850) 403-6835 for a free consultation.
