Every year, thousands of Floridians are arrested for crimes related to illegal drugs – either selling the drugs, possessing the drugs or a combination of charges.
At Pakett Law, our defense lawyers in West Palm Beach see charges like these frequently. Clients contact us to help them with their drug charges.
And if you read or watch the local news, you’ll know how common criminal drug arrests and charges are.
WPBF News – Okeechobee man, 20, caught selling $11,000 in drugs to undercover officer
CBS 12 News – Operation Rushmore: 19 arrested in massive Palm Beach Co. drug trafficking investigation
The Palm Beach Post – West Palm Beach man, 24, sentenced on federal drug trafficking, weapons charges
Quite often, these drug charges are connected with other criminal offenses like weapons charges, theft and an array of violent crimes. When this occurs, the help of a criminal lawyer is really needed.
Charged With a Drug Crime in West Palm Beach?
In Florida, illegal drugs are also referred to as “controlled substances.”
If you’re facing an illegal drug charge (or controlled substance charge), you will likely need the services of a criminal defense lawyer who has the experience – and proven success – handling these charges for past clients. Especially if these charges are combined with other charges.
Drug charges come with serious penalties, including a misdemeanor or felony conviction on your criminal record, substantial jail time, a lengthy term of probation, and termination of employment.
Obviously, a controlled substance conviction is serious.
If you have been arrested on a controlled substance charge – and hope to avoid conviction or limit the penalties associated with a conviction – it is important to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Controlled Substance Charges in Florida – What You Need to Know
A controlled substance charge in Palm Beach County can dramatically alter your life, potentially resulting in:
Misdemeanor or felony criminal record
Substantial jail time
Lengthy probation terms
Potential job loss
Significant financial penalties
The severity of controlled substance charges depends on several critical factors:
Type of drug
Quantity of the substance
Intent of possession
Prior criminal history
Severity of a Drug Conviction – The Reality is Harsh
A drug conviction can have devastating consequences, even for someone who has been a respected and contributing member of society. Beyond the immediate legal penalties, such as fines, probation, or incarceration, a conviction often carries a heavy social and professional stigma. It can jeopardize employment opportunities, lead to professional licensing issues, and create challenges in securing housing or loans.
For someone with a previously unblemished record, the impact can feel particularly harsh, as a conviction might tarnish their reputation within their community and strain relationships with family and friends.
Moreover, the lasting presence of a criminal record can serve as a barrier to fully regaining stability and trust. This is why securing strong legal representation is crucial—not only to fight the charges but also to explore options like diversion programs, expungement, or reduced penalties that can help mitigate the long-term effects on a person’s life.
Why Legal Representation Matters
A skilled criminal defense attorney can play a vital role in navigating the complexities of the legal system and safeguarding your future. They can challenge the legality of the search and seizure, ensuring that evidence obtained unlawfully is excluded from your case.
Additionally, they are equipped to negotiate reduced charges and explore alternative sentencing options, such as drug treatment programs, which may help you avoid jail time. Throughout the legal process, a knowledgeable attorney will work to protect your constitutional rights and provide the best possible defense against the charges you face.
If you’ve been arrested:
Remain silent
Do not discuss the case with law enforcement
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately
Contact a West Palm Beach Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer
When facing a controlled substance charge, hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer can make the ultimate difference in fighting these charges or reducing the potential penalties you may face.
Attorney Brian Pakett has years of experience aggressively representing clients facing criminal charges. From marijuana to methamphetamine, any controlled substance charge can lead to monumental changes in your life, and it is essential to have a dedicated advocate fighting for your rights.
To set up a consultation with a knowledgeable Palm Beach County criminal defense attorney, call us today at 561-318-0531.
The earlier you have professional legal representation, the better your chances of avoiding critical mistakes, protecting your rights, and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Remember – arrests are common in Florida, the legal consequences are serious, and having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you were charged with a serious crime in West Palm Beach or anywhere in the state of Florida, please schedule a free consultation with The Pakett Law Group. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need.