If a police officer catches you behind the wheel while in possession of controlled narcotics, you’re likely to suffer severe penalties if the charges lead to a conviction. These penalties can include massive fines, a lengthy jail sentence, and loss of your driving privileges (among other sanctions).
Many people assume there’s no reason to fight drug possession charges. They figure – often incorrectly – that the charges brought against them are certain to stick due to evidence recovered by the arresting officer. In reality, an experienced attorney can create a multifaceted defense strategy that can result in the dismissal of such charges or a reduction in the associated penalties.
If you were recently caught driving with drugs, whether you were under their influence or merely in possession of them, contact our drug defense attorneys. Following are three reasons to make the call today.
#1 – To Get The Charges Dismissed
This is the ultimate goal. Ideally, the case brought against you would be dismissed entirely, allowing you to completely sidestep the attendant penalties.
Defending against drug charges is difficult. But as with all types of traffic violations, it’s far from impossible.
A good attorney will investigate your case, looking into how the evidence was obtained. He or she will scrutinize whether the stop was legal. Your attorney will also consider whether a defense strategy can be developed around the idea of “constructive possession” – e.g. you borrowed a friend’s car and an officer found a small amount of narcotics in your friend’s glove compartment.
These and other strategies may result in the charges being dismissed.
#2 – To Negotiate A Reduced Sentence
If case dismissal isn’t an option, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain. This can result in a marked reduction in penalties (lower fines, less jail time, etc.) or the elimination of some of the charges. For example, you may be able to avoid jail time entirely if you agree to attend a drug rehabilitation program.
#3 – To Work Within The Local Legal System
The Florida legal system is complex, particularly with respect to drug charges. An experienced attorney will know how to successfully navigate this system while defending your rights.
For example, he or she will know which prosecutors are receptive to plea bargains. He or she can forecast your level of exposure based on which judge hears your case. Your attorney will possess “insider information” regarding the potential effects of various defense strategies.
A conviction for drug possession while driving can have a devastating impact on your life. Don’t just settle the charges by pleading guilty. Contact the Florida drug defense attorneys at Skubiak & Rivas to defend your rights. Call 407-894-4449 or complete the form on this page to schedule a confidential, risk-free consultation. Your livelihood and freedom may be at stake.
