Gainesville, Ocala and Bushnell Drug Crimes Defense Attorney
Defending Drug Possession for Sale Charges in Florida
Far different than a simple drug possession charge, possession for sale or possession with the intent to distribute may be a misdemeanor or a felony offense in Florida, depending upon the type of drug and the amount found in the possession of the accused. Because it is a more severe charge, the penalties for possession with the intent to distribute are more severe than those of possession for personal use. In fact, most possession for sale charges are felony offenses and can include penalties as high as 30 years in state prison.
Gainesville drug crimes defense attorney Robert G. Whittel is an experienced and aggressive trial attorney who fights for his clients' rights. He isn't afraid to go up against the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) or any other federal agencies which may become involved in a drug charge. By drawing upon his years of experience as a defense attorney and a former criminal prosecutor, Mr. Whittel is able to secure favorable outcomes for many clients.
At the Law Offices of Robert G. Whittel, we handle drug crimes cases throughout Florida. We have offices in Ocala, Gainesville and Bushnell and also offer a free case evaluation to discuss your charges and how we may be able to help you to contest them.
Classification of Drugs
In Florida and throughout the rest of the U.S. controlled substances are classified into Schedules (categories) depending upon their potential for addiction and abuse and whether they have any medicinal value. Schedule 1 substances are considered to be the most dangerous and therefore a possession for sale charge involving a Schedule 1 drug will usually be charged as a 2nd degree felony, with a state prison sentence of up to 15 years. Some substances, categorized by Schedule, include:
- Schedule 1: heroin, cannabis, peyote, ecstasy, LSD
- Schedule 2: cocaine, codeine, opium, morphine, methadone
- Schedule 3: substances containing a derivative of barbituric acid, small amounts of codeine
If law enforcement finds larger quantities of drugs in your possession, you may be suspected of having the intention to sell or distribute those drugs. Additional indicators the police will look for include: baggies, cash, pager or PDA, client address lists, measuring devices and weapons. Whether you are suspected of possession for sale of a Schedule 1, 2 or 3 drug, you will need a skilled attorney on your side to fight your charges.
Contact the Law Offices of Robert G. Whittel today!