What is Considered Drug Possession in Florida?

    ORLANDO, FL, August 08, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- At a time when several states in the U.S. are easing their drug laws, Florida has firmly stuck with its stance on drugs.

Despite the glorification of substance abuse in the entertainment industry, Florida has very strict laws concerning drug abuse and a low tolerance for drug offenders.

It is illegal to manufacture, possess, sell, or distribute controlled substances. The punishment for drug-related offenses usually leads to jail time or the payment of heavy fines. To avoid such consequences, it is important to be aware of the drug laws of the state of Florida.

According to Michael Panella, Lead Attorney at Panella Law Firm, "A sound understanding of the drug possession laws in Florida and having a competent attorney will help you avoid severe punishment from the law."

What is Drug Possession?
Drug possession is the crime of having ownership or control of controlled substances for either personal use or to sell. This also applies to drug paraphernalia, such as bongs, injections, and roach clips, especially when drug residue is found in them.

In the eyes of the law, drug possession can be actual or constructive. Actual drug possession occurs when drugs are found on the individual, such as in their hand or pocket. Constructive drug possession refers to when the individual had prior knowledge about the discovered drugs and had control over the location they were found, such as the person's car or house.

Classification of Controlled Substances
Controlled substances are grouped into four classes. These classes are known as schedules.

Schedule 1 Drugs
This class of drugs is highly addictive, has the highest potential for abuse, and has no medical value.
Examples: Diampromide and Betaprodine

Schedule 2 Drugs
This class of drugs is also very addictive, with a high potential for abuse but not as much as schedule 1 drugs. They also have little medical value.
Examples: Morphine and Opium

Schedule 3 Drugs
This class of drugs has a more moderate chance of being abused but still has a good chance of psychological dependency. They have medical value.
Examples: Steroids and Testosterone

Schedule 4 Drugs
This class of drugs has low addictive qualities and limited dependency. The drugs in this class have high medicinal value.
Examples: Tramadol and Diazepam

These schedules play a crucial role in specifying the substance involved in the drug charges and what penalties the offender possibly faces.

About Panella Law Firm
Panella Law Firm is a team of criminal defense lawyers based in Orlando, Florida.

The founder of the firm, attorney Michael Panella, is a top criminal defense attorney with a high rate of success in the courtroom. Mr. Panella and his team believe everyone has the right to a fair trial and competent legal representation.

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