Sarasota Drug Crime Lawyer

Experienced Drug Crime Defense Attorney Serving Sarasota County, FL

When facing a potential drug crime conviction, you are at risk for severe consequences. Being convicted of any drug offense, you run the risk of facing significant penalties, including long prison terms and putting your employment at risk. If you’ve been arrested for any drug crime, you need a trusted drug crime attorney to help you. At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, our drug crime lawyer can help you through arraignment to discovery and even through trial.

Before opening our practice, Eric Reisinger worked as a prosecutor at the State Attorney’s Office. We know how the state gathers and evaluates evidence, and can quickly review the facts and circumstances of your arrest, and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case against you. We can also determine when it will be in your best interest to seek a plea agreement and when you want to fight for your rights in court.

Call our Sarasota drug crime lawyer today at (941) 541-5335 and schedule a free consultation. 

Drug Charges in Florida

According to Florida law, a person can face criminal charges for possessing, possessing with intent to sell, selling, transporting, manufacturing, or trafficking drugs. Not only do drug charges apply to illegal narcotics, but also prescription medication and even medical marijuana without proper authorization.

The state and federal government classify drugs based on “schedules.” Schedule I drugs have the highest potential for abuse with no accepted medical use, while Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and have several medical uses.

The following is a breakdown of drug schedules in Florida:

• Schedule I – Common types of drugs include heroin, LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), bath salts, and cannabis
• Schedule II – Common types of drugs include cocaine and methamphetamine
• Schedule III – Common types of drugs include anabolic steroids, ketamine, and Tylenol with codeine
• Schedule IV – Common types of drugs include Ambien and Diazepam
• Schedule V – Common types of drugs include cough medicines with a low amount of codeine

Drug charges are based on the type of drug involved. While a small quantity may result in simple possession, a larger amount may lead to possession with intent to sell or even trafficking.

Furthermore, penalties are determined by the schedule of a drug. For example, possession of a Schedule I, II, III, or IV narcotic is a third-degree felony, which carries a maximum prison term of five years and a fine no more than $5,000. Possession of a Schedule V controlled substance is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a jail sentence of up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000.

Florida's Stance on Marijuana

Although marijuana is a Schedule I narcotic under federal law, medical marijuana is legal in Florida. However, recreational cannabis is still against the law in the state and associated with its own set of penalties.

Possession of up to 20 grams of pot in Florida is a first-degree misdemeanor. Possession of between more than 20 grams and 25 pounds is a third-degree felony.

Are Steroids Illegal in Florida?

Anabolic steroids are classified as a schedule three narcotic under federal and state laws, which means steroids are illegal in Florida. It is illegal to use, sell, or possess anabolic steroids.

While steroids are not considered as dangerous as other drugs like heroin or cocaine, penalties for possession or distribution can still be steep. If you've been arrested, contact our Sarasota drug crime attorney.

Penalties of Drug Crimes in FL

Navigating the legal landscape of drug crimes in Florida can be daunting, especially when the stakes are high. Understanding the potential consequences of a drug-related conviction is crucial for anyone facing charges. Penalties can range from hefty fines to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the type and amount of substance involved, as well as any prior offenses.

Here are some potential consequences of drug crime convictions in Florida:

• Fines: Convictions can result in significant financial penalties, impacting your future.
• Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the offense, incarceration can range from a few months to several years.
• Probation: Some offenders may be sentenced to probation, which comes with strict conditions and monitoring.
• Criminal Record: A drug conviction can lead to a permanent record, affecting employment opportunities and housing applications.
• Impact on Family: Drug charges can strain relationships with family and friends, leading to emotional and social repercussions.

Understanding the Consequences of Drug Crime Charges

Facing drug crime charges in Florida can be overwhelming, and understanding the potential consequences is crucial for making informed decisions. Drug offenses can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment and housing opportunities.

Here’s what you need to know about the potential impacts of drug crime charges:

• Legal Consequences: Depending on the severity of the charge, you may be facing misdemeanor or felony charges, each carrying different penalties.
• Impact on Employment: A drug conviction can hinder your job prospects, as many employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal record.
• Loss of Professional Licenses: For those in regulated professions, a drug charge could result in the loss of your professional license, affecting your career.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A drug conviction can lead to higher insurance premiums or difficulty obtaining insurance altogether.
• Emotional and Social Consequences: Beyond legal repercussions, being charged with a drug crime can lead to stress, anxiety, and strained relationships with family and friends.

At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, PA, we understand the complexities of drug crime cases and are committed to providing you with the guidance and support needed to navigate this challenging time. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights and help minimize the consequences you face.

Contact Our Sarasota Drug Crime Attorney Today 

Our firm provides comprehensive counsel to people who have been charged with possession or trafficking of illegal drugs. We handle cases involving all types of controlled substances, from marijuana and cocaine to heroin, meth and even prescription drugs.

When you hire us to defend you on a drug charge, we will conduct a thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances leading to your arrest:

• We will look at whether police had probable cause to conduct any search or seizure.
• If you were caught in a buy by an undercover police officer, we will investigate whether the tip came from a confidential informant. If so, we will look at the history of the informant to determine credibility.
• We will also question whether law enforcement officers properly identified you or whether the wrong person was arrested.
• We will verify that the substance sold or possessed was what they claimed it was. If it was a prescription drug, we will verify whether you have a valid prescription.

Our Sarasota drug crime attorney will also help you get the help you need through a diversionary program such as rehabilitation. We are committed to help you avoid conviction and get your life back on the track.

To discuss your case with Sarasota Drug Crime Attorney Reisinger, contact us online or call (941) 541-5335 today.