Drug charges are harshly prosecuted in the court of law. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor drug charge or a felony drug charge, it is crucial to seek professional legal help to defend you from the possible legal penalties tied to a drug crime conviction. While a variety of drug crimes may appear the same on the surface, many drug crimes differ drastically due to various factors.

The type of drug you are accused of possessing largely impacts the severity of the potential legal consequences. For example, you may face a lesser charge if you are accused of possessing a prescription drug without a valid prescription than you would if you were accused of possessing a street drug such as heroin.

The weight of the drugs alleged to be in your possession is also a significant factor in determining the level of the offense you are facing. For example, if you are accused of possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana, you will likely only be charged with a misdemeanor, whereas over 20 grams of marijuana can be charged as a felony.

What Do Drug Crime Lawyers Do for a Drug Offense Case?

Drug crime cases can be surprisingly complex. Hiring a drug crime attorney in Fort Myers can help you uncover critical evidence and utilize aspects of criminal law to get you beneficial results going forward. Investigating the circumstances surrounding your case can paint a better picture of how your criminal case may unfold. In any case, a criminal defense attorney can defend you appropriately and supply you with the legal advice you need to make informed decisions about your case.

How Can I Prevent Future Drug Charges?

A good portion of drug charges stem from marijuana possession, and many vehicle searches during a traffic stop by police begin when officers indicate that they smell an odor of marijuana. Current Florida law, however, allows you to carry medicinal marijuana if you are properly licensed as a patient or caregiver, and the marijuana is appropriately packaged. If those factors are met, then the police likely cannot use the smell of marijuana alone to justify an intrusive search of your personal vehicle.

Marijuana can be used to treat certain ailments, and Florida now permits doctors to prescribe it to qualified patients. Getting a medical marijuana card can help prevent any potential legal complications in the future. You must be eligible to get a medical marijuana card. Consult with a physician and go through the medical marijuana eligibility process and fill out the application. If you are given a medical marijuana card, you will still need to regularly get your prescription card renewed and your prescription re-certified with your physician per current Florida law.

What Steps Should I Take Next?

A drug crime conviction can loom large on your prospects in the future. Fight back against your drug crime charge to avoid a conviction by hiring a tested criminal defense lawyer in Fort Myers, Florida. Call the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A. today at (239) 284-5708 and get the relentless representation you need to beat your drug charges.