A drug possession conviction in Florida has the potential to alter your life forever. Not only is this a red mark on your permanent record, but it can result in a large fine and/or prison time.
With so many penalties associated with a drug possession conviction, it’s imperative to understand the many types of defense strategies you can use. The right approach in court puts you in position to avoid a conviction and everything that comes along with it. Here are a few strategies to consider:
- Unlawful search and seizure: There are times when drugs are legally seized, such as if they’re in plain view during an arrest. There are also times when this doesn’t happen, such as if an officer breaks into your trunk during a routine traffic stop. If you can prove unlawful search and seizure, any evidence collected won’t come into play during your trial.
- The drugs aren’t mine: This defense strategy is used for many crimes. In short, you’re arguing that you didn’t do anything wrong. With this defense strategy, you must be able to show that the drugs belonged to someone else, such as a passenger in your vehicle or roommate.
- Missing drugs: It’s important to ask the prosecution to produce the drugs seized during the arrest. An inability to do so could result in a dismissal, thus allowing you to avoid punishment altogether.
- Entrapment: Police officers are permitted by law to set up operations with the intention of catching people who are breaking the law. However, entrapment occurs when an officer induces you to commit a crime that you wouldn’t commit on your own. An example of this is an officer who pressures you to hand the drugs over to another party.
There is no way of knowing which drug possession defense strategy is right for you until you learn more about the approach associated with each one.
With the right strategy in place, you’ll feel better about your ability to prove your innocence and avoid a conviction.
If you’re interested in learning more about drug possession and common defense strategies, browse our website and blog for additional guidance and advice. The information you find can help put your mind at ease, as you’ll realize that you have options.
