Port Charlotte drug lawyer

Florida and the federal government have laws against unlawful use, possession, distribution or production of certain drugs. These include cocaine, heroin, marijuana and amphetamines. The laws aim to reduce illegal drug use and cut down on drug-related crimes. There are five categories, or "schedules," of drugs based on their potential for dependency and abuse as compared with their therapeutic value. Schedule I controlled substances have the highest potential for dependency and no accepted medical use. Schedule V drugs have a low potential for dependency and accepted medical uses. The most severe penalties for illegal possession, sale or manufacture of drugs involve those listed in Schedule I. The Attorney General has the authority to delete, add or reschedule drugs. State schedules refer to or are based on federal schedules. Punishment

The punishment for drug crimes generally depends on:

The quantity of the drug

Its classification under the schedules

The purpose of possession

The most serious drug crimes are:

Producing illegal drugs

Manufacturing drugs

Selling drugs

Possession of drugs with the intent to distribute them is a serious crime. Prosecutors can prove your intent to distribute drugs just by showing the quantity of the drug, without any evidence you actually distributed the drug. In most states, possession of drugs for personal use is a serious crime. But in some states, possession of drugs for personal use is punished less severely than distribution crimes. For example, in some states, possession of a small amount of marijuana (less than 50 grams) is decriminalized or treated as a disorderly person's offense. If there's a conviction, the punishment is often probation or a fine, and not prison. However, possessing larger amounts of illegal drugs, even for personal use, may be a serious crime. Most minimum sentences range from one year in jail to three years in prison for first-time offenders. The minimum sentences for repeat offenders? Three to 12 years in prison. Enhanced Punishment

Minors are used to distribute the drugs

The drugs are delivered or sold to minors

The drugs are sold or distributed near schools

Enhanced punishments vary by state. You may also be in danger of "forfeiting" your property if you're convicted of a drug crime. For example, if your house is used to make and distribute drugs, the government may be able to seize it. Professional Drug Dealers Special laws cover professional drug dealers. A "drug kingpin," or a person organizing, financing or managing a business to manufacture, transport or sell drugs, commits a serious crime.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

TYPE OF CASES OUR FIRM HANDLES

I handle many types of cases to bench and jury trials including DUI, Criminal and Traffic.

WE THINK YOU SHOULD HIRE US IF:

You want a lawyer who will personally handle your file and will be available for consultation afternoons, evenings and weekends. I will fairly evaluate your case and determine the most favorable course. I will not hesitate to go to trial on your case; that decision, however, will ultimately be yours.

OUR FIRM IS NOT RIGHT FOR YOU IF:

You are looking for a lawyer who will only tell you what you want to hear. I will work with you to honestly assess the facts of the case.

IF YOU WANT TO TELL OUR LAW FIRM ABOUT YOUR SITUATION YOU SHOULD:

I personally communicate with you whenever possible. If I am in Court when you call, you can leave a message with my secretary or on my voicemail. I personally guarantee you will hear back from me in 24-hours, or less - most often, much less. My office phone is (941) 505-7845 or email at rick@ruhllawgroup.com

THE TYPICAL COST TO GET US TO START WORKING ON YOUR CASE IS:

The cost varies depending on the allegation and facts of the case. A fee will be quoted at our initial consultation.

OUR CLIENTS WILL TELL YOU THAT:

My level of experience, knowledge of the law, and personal familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and system is a great advantage. In addition my personal and regular contact with clients, availability and involvement with every aspect of the case bring the most favorable results.

OUR PHILOSOPHY ON HOW WE APPROACH OUR CASES IS:

Depending on the type of case I like to find out as much as I can about the facts of the case and talk to anyone who can help our defense. At that time we can discuss our options. The stronger our defense appears to the prosecutor, the better our chances are of getting a favorable result.

IF YOU WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR FIRM YOU SHOULD:

During our free initial consultation I will answer any questions. Please call (941) 505-7845 .