Fort Lauderdale Drug Possession Lawyers: Defending Your Rights and Future

Being charged with drug possession in Fort Lauderdale can turn your life upside down. These charges carry steep penalties that can affect your reputation, freedom, and future if you are convicted. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced drug defense lawyer on your side to protect your rights. This article provides an overview of drug possession laws in Fort Lauderdale, potential defenses, and how a knowledgeable lawyer can help.

Drug Possession Laws in Fort Lauderdale

Florida has strict drug laws that classify controlled substances into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Charges and penalties vary significantly depending on the type and amount of drug involved. Some common drug possession charges in Fort Lauderdale include:

• Simple marijuana possession – Charged as a misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and $1,000 fine. Penalties increase for subsequent offenses.
• Possession of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine – Third degree felony with up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 fine. Trafficking charges may apply for larger amounts.
• Prescription drug possession – Depends on the schedule of the medication. Charged as misdemeanor or felony with fines and jail time.

Penalties are harsher near schools, parks, churches, and other designated areas. Drug paraphernalia possession is also illegal in Florida.

Fort Lauderdale Drug Defense Lawyers Can Challenge the Charges

Experienced Fort Lauderdale drug defense attorneys have in-depth knowledge of state drug laws and potential defenses. Here are some ways we can fight the charges:

• Invalid search – If the search violated your Fourth Amendment rights, evidence may be suppressed.
• No possession – You didn’t know about the drugs or they belonged to someone else.
• No intent – The drugs were for personal use, not sale or distribution.
• Entrapment – You were illegally induced to commit the crime by police.
• Illegal stop – The traffic stop or detention was unlawful, tainting evidence.

In addition to these defenses, we thoroughly examine police reports, lab tests, and procedures followed to identify any constitutional violations or other ways to get charges reduced or dismissed.

Drug Diversion Programs in Lieu of Conviction

For those facing simple possession charges, Fort Lauderdale drug lawyers may be able to get you into a pretrial diversion program. These programs allow you to avoid conviction by completing drug counseling, treatment, community service and other requirements. Two common programs are:

• Drug Court – 12-18 month supervised program with regular hearings and drug testing. Charges dismissed upon successful completion.
• Pretrial Intervention – 6-12 month program with similar requirements. Record can be expunged after completion.

Avoiding conviction through one of these programs is ideal, as it keeps your record clean and allows you to move on with your life. An attorney familiar with the programs can advise you on eligibility and guide you through the process.

How an Attorney Can Help Your Drug Possession Case

Having an advocate in your corner from the start is critical, as drug charges can snowball quickly. Here are some of the ways a drug defense lawyer can help:

• Explain the charges and possible penalties so you know what’s at stake.
• Advise you on your rights and legal options at every stage.
• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or diversion.
• Identify and challenge any police misconduct or constitutional issues.
• Thoroughly investigate the case and build defenses to fight the charges.
• Represent you in court hearings and at trial if needed.
• Guide you through drug court or pretrial intervention if eligible.
• Help mitigate penalties and consequences if convicted.

Having an advocate protects your rights, and ensures your side of the story is heard. This can make all the difference in achieving the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Rudenberg and Glasser for Your Drug Defense?

When facing drug possession charges, you need an aggressive defense team on your side. Rudenberg and Glasser have successfully defended Fort Lauderdale residents against complex state and federal drug crimes for over 60 years. Our award-winning attorneys include:

• Michael D. Glasser – Named one of “Florida’s Legal Elite,” he has over 4 decades of criminal trial experience.
• Michael T. Davis – Former prosecutor who handled drug crimes and wiretaps. He knows how the state builds these cases.
• Daniel A. Tibbitt – Passionate advocate who handles cases from investigation through trial.

We take an individualized approach to every case, digging deep into the details to build the strongest defense. If you or a loved one is facing drug possession charges, don’t leave your fate to chance. Contact our office for a free case review, and take the first step toward protecting your future.