What Are Legal Implications of Unlawful Possession of Prescription Medicine?
Prescription medication can be extremely helpful for those in need, and dangerous for those possessing it who don’t. Unlawful possession of prescription medicine is considered very severe in Florida courtrooms, and can potentially result in devastating consequences.
If you are facing charges of unlawful possession of any type of prescription medicine, you need to immediately contact one of the experienced drug defense lawyers in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm for skilled legal representation.
Understanding Degrees of Charges
In Florida, unlawful possession of prescription medication can lead to various degrees of charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances of the offense. These circumstances include factors such as the type and quantity of the controlled substance, prior criminal history, and intent to distribute. The overarching degree of the charge is often determined primarily by the controlled substance’s classification under Florida law.
If you are facing any degree of unlawful possession of prescription medication, you should immediately contact The Rickman Law Firm, the best criminal defense law firm in Tampa, to get in contact with a skilled attorney to begin crafting a strong defense strategy.
Degrees of Charges and Associated Penalties
First-Degree Misdemeanor
A first-degree misdemeanor charge involves the possession of small quantities of a Schedule V controlled substance, such as cough medicines containing codeine, without a valid prescription. Individuals convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor may face up to 1 year in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
Third-Degree Felony
Possession of Schedule III or IV controlled substances, including anabolic steroids or certain prescription painkillers like hydrocodone, without a valid prescription, is considered a third-degree felony in a court of law. A conviction could result in up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.
Second-Degree Felony
Possession of Schedule II controlled substances, such as oxycodone or morphine, without a valid prescription, will likely result in a second-degree felony charge, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony
A first-degree felony charge will involve possession of large quantities of Schedule II controlled substances without a valid prescription or with intent to distribute, such as trafficking in oxycodone. Individuals convicted of a first-degree felony charge of unlawful possession of prescription medication may face up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Florida's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
To address prescription drug abuse and monitor the distribution of controlled substances, Florida established the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. This program requires healthcare providers to report prescriptions and dispensations of controlled substances to a statewide electronic database. Law enforcement agencies and healthcare providers can access this database to identify potential cases of misuse or unlawful possession.
Legal Defense Strategies
If you are facing charges related to unlawful possession of prescription medication in Florida, your Tampa drug defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm will likely explore various legal defense strategies to protect your rights and seek to mitigate your charge and potential consequences. These strategies may include challenging the legality of search and seizure, disputing possession, providing evidence of a valid prescription, or seeking alternative sentencing options.
Facing Charges Of Unlawful Possession of Prescription Medicine Could Be Dangerous Without the Guidance Of an Expert Attorney
Unlawful possession of prescription medication in Florida carries significant legal consequences, ranging from misdemeanor to felony charges with varying degrees of penalties. As the best criminal defense law firm in Tampa, the attorneys with The Rickman Law Firm have many years of expertise and experience in defending against possession charges and will work with you to achieve the most favorable outcome.
For a free case consultation, contact our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out the consultation form on our website at any time.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.