Drug Possession Defense Lawyers in Panama City, FL

Providing Aggressive & Experienced Legal Representation in Bay, Jackson, Walton, Holmes Counties & Beyond

If you have been arrested for possession of a controlled substance, you need to retain an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Drug possession is a serious crime in Florida. Law enforcement takes these charges seriously and will investigate you thoroughly to build their case against you. If you are convicted of drug possession, you may face harsh penalties, including jail time, probation, fines, and other consequences. At Hinson Law Offices, we are proud to offer skilled and professional legal representation to those accused of drug crimes in Florida. 

Schedule your free initial consultation with a Panama City drug possession lawyer today!

What Is Drug Possession?

Florida law defines drug possession as knowingly having control over a controlled substance. It does not matter if the drug is in your hand, in your pocket, in your car, or in your home. The law does not care how the drug got into your possession, only that you knowingly had control over it at some point.

If you are arrested for drug possession, you must retain a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding the harsh penalties associated with a conviction. You may be eligible for diversion if you are a first-time offender.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Florida?

The penalties for drug possession depend on the type of drug involved and the quantity of the drug involved. For example, marijuana possession is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. If you are caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana, you may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. If you are caught with 20 to 25 grams of marijuana, you may be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor. If you are caught with more than 25 grams of marijuana, you may be charged with a second-degree felony.

If you are caught with any other type of drug, the penalties may be more severe. For example, cocaine possession is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. If you are caught with 28 grams or less of cocaine, you may be charged with a third-degree felony. If you are caught with more than 28 grams of cocaine, you may be charged with a second-degree felony.

Drug Diversion for Possession Charges

If you are charged with drug possession and it is your first offense, you may be eligible for diversion. This is a program that allows you to avoid jail time and other penalties if you complete the program. You must attend counseling and complete a treatment program. You may also be required to pay restitution to the victim of your alleged crime, perform community service, and submit to random drug testing.

Contact a Panama City Drug Possession Attorney

If you are facing drug possession charges, you need an attorney who understands how law enforcement builds their cases. You need an attorney who knows the strategies that work in court. You need an attorney who is willing to fight for you and is ready to give you the aggressive representation you need. At Hinson Law Offices, we are ready to put our experience to work for you.

To learn more about your rights and what we can do for you, contact our Panama City drug possession attorneys.