Marijuana-related charges can be far more serious than you might think. Be prepared to aggressively defend yourself by reaching out to a qualified marijuana lawyer in Sarasota.
Despite the fact that many states around the country have legalized marijuana use for medicinal and recreational purposes, this is not the case in Florida. With some of the harshest punishments of any state, Florida takes marijuana crimes very seriously.
For this reason, it is imperative that you have a qualified criminal defense. Michael Fayard, Attorney at Law has what it takes to help you put this experience behind you. As a trial lawyer and former prosecuting attorney, this Sarasota marijuana lawyer knows what needs to be done to obtain an acquittal.
Florida Marijuana Laws You Need to Know
Marijuana use for medicinal purposes is legal in Florida only for qualified patients. Individuals across the state are not allowed to consume marijuana for recreational purposes at the time of this publication.
But being in possession of the drug isn’t the only marijuana-related crime you could be charged with. Other possible charges you may face include possession of paraphernalia, sale or intent to sell marijuana, manufacturing, and drug trafficking, to name a few. The penalties if you are found guilty will vary depending on which type of marijuana crime you have been charged with.
Legal Consequences for Marijuana Crimes in Sarasota
Marijuana possession is one of the most common marijuana crimes seen in Florida. The amount you had on you at the time of your arrest will largely determine what consequences you may face. For example, people who are in possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana may be charged with a first degree misdemeanor, which is punishable by fines of up to $1,000 and a maximum of one year in jail.
However, individuals who are found to have purchased or possessed more than 20 grams of marijuana could be charged with a third degree felony which is punishable by fines of up to $5,000 and five years in prison.
If you have been charged with the manufacture, sale, or trafficking of marijuana, the penalties could be far worse. Manufacturing and selling marijuana could be considered a first degree misdemeanor or a third degree felony depending on the circumstances of your case.
Trafficking marijuana carries the most significant penalties. Those accused of trafficking could face first degree felony charges, spend up to 15 years in prison and pay fines of up to $200,000 depending on how much marijuana they have been accused of trafficking.
Your Sarasota marijuana lawyer must carefully review the details of your charges to determine which defensive strategy will be most effective in your case.
Get in Touch with a Sarasota Marijuana Attorney
If you have been arrested or charged with a marijuana-related crime and aren’t sure what to do next, reach out to respected Sarasota marijuana lawyer Michael Fayard, Attorney at Law. You can take advantage of the free consultations offered by submitting the convenient contact form provided at the bottom of this page or calling the office directly at 941-306-1310.
