Clermont Drug Charge Defense Attorney
Serving Clients Accused of Drug Offenses in the Four Corners Area
Florida law treats drug crimes with significant gravity, with many offenses classified as felonies. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, impacting your life through substantial financial burdens, lengthy probationary periods, and the potential for mandatory incarceration. Understanding the complexities of these statutes is crucial when facing such charges.
At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we recognize the gravity of your situation. Our firm is prepared to provide robust legal support to protect your rights throughout this challenging time. We can guide you through the intricacies of Florida’s drug crime laws and are prepared to work diligently on your behalf.
Call (888) 835-5840 to schedule a consultation with a drug offense defense attorney at The Law Offices of Justin Rickman today.
Skilled Representation for Clients Facing Drug Charges in the Four Corners Area
Florida law meticulously defines drug crimes, and any involvement with controlled or illegal substances can result in severe penalties. This underscores the critical need for experienced legal counsel when facing such accusations.
We provide skilled representation for individuals charged with a range of drug offenses, including:
- Drug possession. Being caught with illegal substances like marijuana, cocaine, MDMA/Molly, meth, heroin, or unlawfully obtained prescription pills can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges under Florida Statute § 817.563, depending on the drug’s classification. Possession can be established through physical proximity or by demonstrating knowledge and control over the substance.
- Drug manufacturing. Engaging in the production of illegal drugs, including cultivating marijuana or synthesizing substances, is a serious offense under Florida Statute § 893.135. Owning or possessing property where manufacturing occurs is also criminalized by § 893.1351.
- Drug trafficking. Transporting certain quantities of illegal drugs can lead to trafficking charges under Florida Statute § 893.135. The required amounts vary by substance but can be lower than commonly perceived, with penalties potentially reaching a first-degree felony.
- Drug paraphernalia. Possessing, using, selling, transporting, manufacturing, or advertising items intended for use with illegal drugs is illegal under Florida Statute § 893.147. This includes items beyond drug use, such as scales, packaging, and even equipment used in cultivation or manufacturing, and can be a third-degree felony.
- Drug racketeering. This crime extends to attempting or coercing someone into committing a drug offense. It involves a pattern of related racketeering activities within five years, as defined by Florida Statute § 895.03.
If you are currently facing any of these drug-related charges, we strongly advise you to reach out to The Law Offices of Justin Rickman today.
Voices of Victory
4.8 Google Rating from 150 of our Clients
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“Angela Alcime was a Godsend who helped us navigate some muddy waters and resolve some tough issues. She really knows what she's doing. More than that, she actually cares.”- David L.
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“We were so pleased and appreciative of the friendliness and professionalism of Mr. Rickman and the staff that we couldn’t have been happier.”- Gregg S.
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“Angela was exceptional in assisting my family. Within a 5-minute conversation, she knew exactly how to assist my family and worked within our time constraints.”- Norma V.
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“If you want a upfront, straight forward, professional go-getter, Justin and his team are all that and more!”- Nathan P.
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“He and his staff made me feel like my needs were a priority, exuded professionalism, and I always felt like I had an advocate in my corner.”- Christopher F.
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“He is a straight shooter and doesn't sugar coat, which was also very appreciated. I recommend Justin 100% and would definitely use him again if the need arises.”- Shannon Z.
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“I will always continue to recommend Mr. Rickman to anyone in need and I am confident that him and his team will be able to take care of them!”- Brandon T.
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“I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good attorney. I am very thankful for his service and kindness.”- Jimmy
Penalties for a Drug Conviction in Clermont
Understanding the repercussions of a drug conviction in Florida is vital. Penalties fluctuate considerably based on factors like the type of drug and amount, the offense (possession, manufacturing, or trafficking), and prior criminal history. Even minor possession can bring significant fines, potential jail time, and a criminal record affecting future prospects.
Felony drug convictions in Florida can result in extended prison terms, often with mandatory minimums tied to drug quantity. These convictions can also lead to driver’s license suspension, loss of civil rights, and difficulty securing professional licenses. Additionally, those convicted may face drug testing, substance abuse treatment, and strict probation after release.
Florida law also imposes harsher penalties for offenses near schools, churches, or other specified areas. Drug trafficking, in particular, carries severe consequences, with substantial prison sentences and fines escalating with drug weight. Understanding Florida’s drug laws and the potential ramifications of a conviction is essential.
What Is the Difference Between Actual Possession & Constructive Possession?
Constructive possession is a legal concept involving possession that goes beyond having drugs directly in your hand or pocket.
It applies when a person may not be physically holding illicit substances, but two conditions are met:
- The person is aware that the drugs are present.
- The person has the ability to control those drugs (for example, to move or use them).
Here in Florida, the prosecution has the job of proving constructive possession. To do this, they must clearly show that the accused individual both knew about the drugs and had the actual ability to manage or direct them.
A key point in Florida law is that simply being near drugs is not enough to prove constructive possession. There must be more evidence that links the person to the illicit substances, demonstrating their knowledge and their control.
For example, if drugs are found in a person’s home or car, this might lead to a charge. However, for that charge to hold, the prosecution must provide sufficient proof that the person knew the drugs were there and had the power to control them.
Potential Defenses for Florida Drug Charges
Facing a drug charge in Florida is understandably concerning. We want to help you recognize that various legal defenses may be available, with the best approach always determined by the specific circumstances of your case.
Common areas for defense include:
- Legality of search and seizure. A crucial step is to determine if law enforcement violated your constitutional rights against unlawful searches and seizures. If your rights were breached, any improperly gathered evidence could be suppressed, which can substantially weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
- Challenging proof of possession. The prosecution is required to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you had either actual possession (the drugs were on your person) or constructive possession (you knew of the drugs’ presence and had control over them). If there’s insufficient evidence of your knowledge or control–for example, if drugs were found in a common area accessible to multiple people–this can be the basis for a robust defense.
- Integrity of evidence (chain of custody). We also carefully review the chain of custody, which refers to the documented handling of the alleged substances from collection through testing. Any breaks, undocumented transfers, or procedural errors in this chain can raise serious questions about the reliability of the evidence.
- Entrapment. In certain situations, an entrapment defense may be appropriate. This applies if law enforcement actions went beyond merely offering an opportunity and instead improperly pressured or persuaded someone to commit a drug offense they otherwise would not have been inclined to commit.
A thorough investigation of your arrest and the evidence is key to building a defense. Your future matters to us at The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, and we meticulously analyze every detail so that we can effectively advocate for you.
Our Core Values
We always provide our clients with a realistic assessment of their likelihood of success and are driven by three core values:
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True Commitment
At our firm, unwavering dedication defines everything we do. We stand by our clients with integrity, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
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Delivery of Effective Results
We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to delivering strategic, timely, and results-driven solutions tailored to our clients' needs.
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Bang for Your Buck
We want you to receive maximum value for your legal investment - experienced representation, transparent pricing, and results that matter.
Choose The Law Offices of Justin Rickman as Your Drug Offense Defense Attorney in the Four Corners Area
Facing drug charges in Clermont can be an overwhelming and uncertain experience. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we understand the gravity of your situation and are committed to providing you with clear, straightforward information and dedicated representation. We believe in treating every client with the attention and respect they deserve, offering honest and compassionate assistance during what we know can be a profoundly difficult time.
We are prepared to advocate on your behalf. For your convenience, The Law Offices of Justin Rickman offers virtual consultations, and our staff is pleased to assist Spanish-speaking clients. Call (888) 835-5840 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a drug crimes defense attorney in Clermont today.