Gainesville Drug Possession Attorneys
A drug possession charge is not as serious as a drug trafficking or manufacturing charge, but the consequences you face are still very serious if you are convicted. It is incredibly important that you work with a Gainesville drug possession attorney when facing these charges. The prosecution may try to upgrade your charges to possession with the intent to sell, and an attorney can provide you with the strong legal defense you need.
Our Attorney Distinguishes Between Drug Possession and Possession with Intent to Sell
Many people confuse the offense of drug possession and the charge of possession with intent to sell. This is because the two crimes are essentially the same, but with one distinct difference. When pursuing charges of possession with intent to sell, the prosecution must prove that you not only possessed a controlled substance, but that you also intended to sell or distribute the drug.
Typically, charges of possession with intent to sell are only laid when you were in possession of a large quantity of the drug, which indicates the substance was for more than just personal use. However, other elements of the case may also result in charges of possession with intent to sell. For example, large amounts of cash and packaging supplies can also indicate that you possessed a controlled substance with the intent to sell.
A Attorney Will Challenge the Elements of the Offense
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove several elements of the offense. These include:
- The substance was controlled: Sometimes, law enforcement and the prosecution mistakenly believe someone is in possession of a controlled substance when they are not.
- You had knowledge of the drug: You must have known you were in possession of a controlled substance. For example, if a friend left marijuana in your vehicle and you did not have knowledge of that fact, it could serve as a defense.
- You had control of the drug: Possession of a controlled substance is not enough to secure a conviction. You must have also had control over the drug. Using the same example as above, you may not have had control over your friend leaving a controlled substance in your vehicle and so, you can use that in your defense.
A drug possession attorney will know the elements the prosecution must prove, and challenge their arguments to give you the best chance of a successful outcome.
Our Gainesville Drug Possession Attorneys Can Help with Your Charges
Drug possession charges are not as serious as other drug crimes, but it is still a very serious crime. It is also an offense law enforcement and the state prosecution eagerly pursue, so it is important to have a strong defense. At Meldon Law, our Gainesville drug possession attorney can provide you with that defense to give you the best chance of retaining your freedom. Call us today at 800-373-8000 or contact us online to schedule a free case review and to learn more about how we can help.
