Indian River County, Vero Beach Drug Charges Lawyer
All drug crimes are a big deal, not just those involving manufacturing, distribution or trafficking. There is much more to consider than the fines and potential jail time: Drug crimes can carry stiff mandatory prison sentences, affect your driving privileges and ruin career or educational opportunities. They can also impede your ability to obtain financial aid or lead to deportation if you are living in Vero Beach on a green card.
Society’s attitude toward marijuana may be changing across the country, but drug possession is still a serious offense under Florida law. If you are caught with even a minimal amount, you may lose your driver’s license for one year.
At the office of Adam Chrzan, Attorney At Law, my focus is to help you keep a drug conviction off your record. When that’s not possible, I look for options that reduce the impact of the charges on your life.
Prescription Drug Offenses
Criminal charges based on prescription drug violations are some of the most common, but they carry mandatory minimum prison terms comparable to cases involving drugs that are entirely illegal. Even a minor mistake can trigger strict penalties for offenses. You may be arrested for:
- Holding medication prescribed for a family member
- Obtaining medicine after your prescription has expired
- Taking Adderall or other drugs from a friend to study for a test
- Selling or even giving away painkillers to help someone with their pain
- Forging a prescription or taking a prescription pad
Defending Drug Charges in Vero Beach & Indian River County
If you have been arrested for drug possession, sale, or trafficking in Vero Beach, you aren’t just facing a legal hurdle you’re facing a threat to your career, your driver’s license, and your freedom. As a former prosecutor along the Treasure Coast, I have seen how the state builds these cases. Now, I use that “insider” knowledge to tear them down.
I represent clients facing all types of drug-related allegations, including:
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Fentanyl & Heroin Charges: Navigating the harsh new mandatory minimums.
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Marijuana Possession: Defending against the 1-year mandatory driver’s license suspension.
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Prescription Fraud: Defending medical professionals and individuals accused of “doctor shopping.”
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Drug Court Eligibility: Helping first-time offenders enter diversion programs to keep their records clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Drug Offenses
Your pending drug charges can lead to criminal penalties and a permanent criminal record. I can answer your most pressing questions, such as the four common questions below, and assist you with fighting the allegations against you.
Will I go to jail for a first-time drug possession in Vero Beach?
Yes, even a first-time drug possession offense in Vero Beach can lead to jail time. Jail time is not necessarily mandatory. The sentence depends on the type and weight of the drugs. If you are eligible for pretrial diversion programs, such as drug court, you may be able to avoid incarceration and have the charges against you dropped if you complete the program successfully.
Is possession of a single prescription pill a felony in Vero Beach?
Yes, even a single prescription pill without a valid prescription can lead to a third-degree felony. Charges related to the unlawful possession of controlled substances could carry up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines, as well as a permanent felony criminal record. If the medication is a “legend” drug, such as an antibiotic, beta blocker or blood thinner, the charge may be a second-degree misdemeanor that carries up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
What is the difference between “Actual” and “Constructive” possession?
Actual possession involves having contraband on your person. Items in your pocket, purse or hands are items in your actual possession. Constructive possession involves items found nearby or in spaces you can access. If the state can show that you had control over the drugs and knowledge of them, prosecutors could pursue a constructive possession charge.
What is the Indian River County Adult Drug Court?
The Indian River County Adult Drug Court is a problem-solving court for those with substance abuse disorders. The adult drug courts are a diversion option for those facing drug charges. They oversee treatment and rehabilitation efforts to help people achieve and retain sobriety. Participation in the adult drug courts may also be a condition of probation after a conviction in some cases.
Don’t Worry – Come Talk To Me In A Free Initial Consultation
When you read about the potential penalties, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and afraid. It is important to remember that you have options and that your best chance at a good outcome is to have a knowledgeable, aggressive and experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.
You can learn about your options in a free initial consultation with Adam Chrzan, Attorney At Law. Talk to me directly by calling 772-410-3722 or sending an email.
