Panama City Drug Possession Attorney

Representing You with Tenacity & Professionalism

Being convicted of drug possession can threaten your future and result in heavy fines, not to mention jail time. Although our nation's attitude toward non-violent drug offenders seems to be shifting rapidly, drug possession remains a very serious crime in Florida. If you are arrested for drug possession, you may also be facing much harsher penalties if the prosecution can prove that you had an intent to sell the drugs.

Florida courts can be aggressive in punishing those convicted of possessing illegal substances, which means you need a strong legal defense to protect you from the penalties. Contact a Panama City drug crimes attorney right away to begin work on your defense if you have been arrested for possession.

To speak with our experienced Panama City drug possession lawyers, give us a call at (850) 290-2505 or contact us online today.

Controlled Substances in Panama City

The office of drug control has listed illegal possession of controlled substances to be of special concern to law enforcement in the panama city/Panama city beach area. Methamphetamine and “molly” are widespread in the panama city/Panama city beach area. While cocaine has been named the number one drug threat statewide in the past, more attention is being shifted to the dangers of illegal opioids and legal opioids used illegally.

These opioids include:

Hydrocodone (Lortab)
Alazopram (Xanex)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet, Roxicodone)

Despite many states legalizing recreational marijuana, Florida still prohibits any possession or cultivation for personal use, whether it is grown using indoor grow labs or outdoor rural areas.

What is at stake for a drug possession charge?

It's important to realize that a drug possession arrest is very serious, and carries some very serious consequences. A drug conviction will remain on your record, which can be made available to employers upon request. You need to do everything you can to fight a drug possession conviction by hiring a professional defense attorney from Shepard Law. Punishments for possession depend on what and how much you are accused of possessing.

As mentioned before, you may also get caught in the "intent to sell" trap. This commonly occurs when you have a larger amount of the drug in your possession, or were found to have things like scales, small plastic bags, or other items that indicate an intent to distribute the drug.

Consider the following examples of possession crimes and associated penalties:

Up to a year in jail with a $1,000 fine for 20 grams or less of marijuana
UP to 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine for more than 20 grams of marijuana
Up to 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine for possession of cocaine, heroin, meth, or ecstasy
More than 10 grams of Heroin carries up to 30 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines
Possession of drug paraphernalia carries up to 1 year in jail

Understanding the Consequences of Drug Possession Charges

Facing drug possession charges can be a daunting experience, and understanding the potential consequences is crucial for anyone involved. In Florida, penalties can vary significantly based on the type and amount of substance involved, as well as prior criminal history. Our experienced attorneys at Shepard Law are here to guide you through this complex legal landscape.

Some potential consequences of a drug possession conviction may include:

Fines: Convictions can lead to substantial fines, which can vary based on the severity of the offense.
Imprisonment: Depending on the circumstances, you could face jail time, which can disrupt your life and future opportunities.
Probation: In some cases, offenders may be placed on probation, requiring regular check-ins with a probation officer and adherence to specific conditions.
Criminal Record: A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment prospects and housing opportunities.
Loss of Driving Privileges: Certain drug charges may lead to suspension of your driver’s license.

It is essential to have a skilled attorney who can help you navigate these potential outcomes and work towards minimizing their impact. At Shepard Law, we prioritize your rights and aim to achieve the best possible resolution for your case. Don't face these challenges alone; contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Our Experienced Panama City Drug Possession Lawyers Can Help

Mr. Shepard can work to fight your drug possession charges and protect your freedom. He has worked on criminal justice cases for over two decades and he knows what strategies are successful. He may argue that the illegal substances were discovered by an unlawful search by police or that your rights were somehow violated in the arrest process. Any evidence discovered by means of an illegal search would be inadmissible in court and may result in your charges being thrown out.

In addition, some Florida counties have access to special drug courts. This is a much more preferable sentence and drug treatment, as it will let you maintain your freedom other than weekly testing. Mr. Shepard can fight for your best outcome possible no matter what the details of your case.

While you may have access to a public defender, it's important to remember that these individuals are often overworked, and are not free like many people think. Our founding attorney is a former prosecutor, giving us inside knowledge as to how the state will build their case against you. If you're facing charges, call our firm today for the dedicated defense you need.

To speak with our experienced Panama City drug possession lawyers, give us a call at (850) 290-2505 or contact us online today.

No Charges Aggravated Assault
ALLEGATION: Client arrested for drive-by shooting and was facing the possibility of a minimum mandatory 15 year prison sentence under Florida's 10-20-Life Law. RESULT: After consulting with with prosecutors and law enforcement NO CHARGES WERE FILED.
Negotiated Plea DUI Manslaughter
ALLEGATION: Client charged with DUI Manslaughter. Client faced up to 15 years prison and a permanent loss of his drivers' license. RESULT: Client entered negotiated plea to probation and is eligible to drive with a hardship license.
Not Convicted Sexual Battery
ALLEGATION: Client who holds a professional certification and license with the State of Florida was accused of Sexual Battery with the possibility of 15 years prison and mandatory "Sexual Offender" designation. Arrest was reported in the Panama City News Herald. RESULT: Charge reduced without consent of victim to simple battery (misdemeanor). Client NOT CONVICTED of any criminal offense and not designated a Sexual Offender. Client able to return to work without loss of professional certification and license
Client NOT CONVICTED Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation for a second time by failing to report ("absconding"), committing a new crime of Battery, not completing DUI school and failing to complete court ordered community service hours.
Not Convicted Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation by failing to report ("absconding") and committing a new felony of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Forgery. Client was on probation for 7 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, 6 counts of Forgery, and 6 counts of Criminal Use of Personal Identification.

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What Sets Shepard Law Apart?

Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.

We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.

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Personable and understanding
“Rusty is very personable and accommodating. He made himself available on short notice and met with me after hours. He told me not to worry and got everything dismissed in court this morning! Thank you Rusty and Lisa!!!”

- Lauren
Sweetest, kindest, most Professional #1
“Mr. Shepard and his staff are amazing! They went above and beyond to help me. I would not want anyone else on my team! I am young and despite that, he made sure that the judge saw me as a person and not just a young person. He and his office even spent extra time with me and attended to every single thousand question that I had. They could not get a better rating 10 stars!!”

- Jessica
Absolutely Recommend
“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”

- Vanessa M.
Absolutely Recommend!
“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepherd Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”

- Vanessa M.
Under a time line!!!
“My wife and I found out on a Monday that we needed a Defense Attorney on Tuesday for a family situation. I called the office and Megan quickly contacted Rusty and he reassured us that he would be at court on Tuesday and he would take care of everything. Those words were the most comforting we've heard as this came up not long after Hurricane Michael. Rusty and his office has no idea how much he helped us and how much we appreciate their quick response. Thank you will never cover how much you guys mean to us.”

- Craig E.

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