Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell Drug Crimes Attorney

Florida Criminal Defense Attorney

At the Law Offices of Robert G. Whittel, we are committed to helping those individuals who are facing drug charges throughout Florida, including: possession, cultivation, distribution, sale and trafficking. If you are facing charges, the importance of an experienced defense attorney on your side cannot be stressed enough.

On this page, we have included several frequently asked questions regarding drug crimes in Florida. We hope you find these helpful, and we also welcome you to contact us for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do if I've been arrested for drug possession? If you've been arrested, it is important to remember that you do not have to talk to the police and that you have the right to consult an attorney at any time. Deciding to refuse representation or waiting to talk to a lawyer could have devastating effects on the outcome of your case.

What is an illegal search and seizure? An illegal search and seizure occurs when law enforcement enters your premises or searches your person and takes possession of drugs or other items - when they did not have a warrant to do so or did not have probable cause. This is often an issue in drug-related charges and may be a valid defense if you were the victim of an illegal search and seizure.

Why not just work with a State-appointed defense attorney? You have the right to an attorney, and if you cannot afford one, the State may appoint one for you. Of course any attorney is better than having no representation at all, but there are benefits to working with a private attorney such as Robert G. Whittel. State attorneys may be overworked and inexperienced and therefore unable to provide you with the same level of service and commitment that a private defense lawyer can provide.

Are drug charges Federal offenses? Drug charges may be Federal offenses, usually when state lines are crossed or in the case of international crimes. A simple possession charge will likely not be a Federal offense, but an interstate drug trafficking charge will be. Federal crimes are complex and difficult to defend; a lawyer who understands Federal court procedures is a necessity if you are charged with any type of Federal crime.

Will I go to prison? This will depend upon your prior criminal record (if any) and the amount and type of drug found in your possession. A simple marijuana possession may result in no jail time. Cocaine possession or distribution of marijuana, however, will likely result in time in state prison if you are convicted.

Arrested for a drug crime in Ocala, Gainesville or Bushnell, Florida? Contact our offices today!