Fort Walton Beach Drug Crime Attorney

Defending Okaloosa County Residents Against Drug Charges

It's often the case that drug crime defendants feel as if they have been caught "red-handed" and have no other legal recourse but to plead guilty. This is not always the case. In fact, there are often probable cause, police protocol, and evidence issues in these cases that the accused may not be aware of at the time of their arrest. At Vanover Law Firm, we can ensure that these shortcomings in the prosecution's case are properly exposed and rigorously scrutinized before the law. 

Are you facing drug charges in Florida? Call Vanover Law Firm P.A. today at (850) 999-0006 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug crime lawyer in Fort Walton Beach! 

Florida Statute 893.13 & Common Drug Offenses 

Drug statutes in Florida are complex and address numerous circumstances in which individuals could be in possession of controlled substances or participating in a larger drug economy. The seriousness of these charges is based on various factors, including the type of controlled substance involved and the amount, but all of these charges can result in serious ramifications for the accused if a guilty verdict is reached.

Common drug crimes in Florida include:

• Possession of a controlled substance - Florida Statute § 893.13(6)(a)
• Possession with intent to sell - Florida Statute § 893.13
• Manufacturing of a controlled substance - Florida Statute § 893.13
• Selling of a controlled substance - Florida Statute § 893.13
• Delivery of a controlled substance - Florida Statute § 893.13
• Sale of drugs to a minor - Florida Statute § 893.13(4)
• Bringing drugs into a protected area - Florida Statute § 893.13(1)(c) – (f)

For more information on your specific charge, call our offices today. We can review the details of your case and outline how our Fort Walton Beach drug attorneys would approach your defense.

Classification of Controlled Substances in Florida

In Florida, drugs are classified into Schedules based on the characteristics of the drug. Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical uses; they include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse, but some accepted medical uses; include oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and morphine. Schedule III drugs have less potential for abuse than Schedule I and II drugs but still carry a certain amount of risk; these include ketamine, anabolic steroids, and testosterone derivatives. Finally, Schedule IV drugs are considered the least dangerous, with low potential for abuse or dependence; examples of these substances include Xanax and Valium.

What are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Florida?

Penalties for drug crimes in Florida can range from probation and fines to long prison terms. The specific penalty depends on the type of crime and the amount or type of controlled substance involved. For example, possession of certain controlled substances is a third-degree felony which carries a maximum of 5 years in prison and/or up to a $5,000 fine. Possession with intent to distribute is also considered a felony and has possible sentences of over ten years in prison and hefty fines. If you are facing drug possession or distribution charges, seek experienced counsel immediately.

Contact Our Fort Walton Beach Drug Crime Lawyer Today 

Drug charges are common in Florida and can result in life-altering penalties for the accused. The severity of these cases can vary widely, ranging from simple misdemeanors to serious felonies. Still, no matter what drug offense the accused may be facing, they are advised to seek counsel from a knowledgeable and experienced Fort Walton Beach drug crime attorney immediately.

At Vanover Law Firm, our Okaloosa County criminal defense attorney has handled thousands of criminal cases, including many involving our local controlled substance statutes. We know what challenges the accused face in these cases and what to look for in the state's case against our clients. Defendants that choose our firm can trust that their representation will exhaustively pursue every avenue toward a dismissal or reduction.

Ready to Defend Your Rights? Contact Vanover Law Firm P.A. Today!