Consequences to a possession of a controlled substance offense can last several years and may result in a felony conviction. A convicted felon may face several life hurdles, like the inability to find stable housing or employment. In Florida, a convicted felon must register in the county they reside with the sheriff’s office to be photographed and finger printed pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 775.13.
Furthermore, if an individual is convicted of a drug conviction in Florida, they may lose their driver’s license for a minimum of two years.
Controlled substances can include doctor prescribed medications and street drugs.
Some examples of these drugs are:
- Cocaine; Heroin; Methamphetamines; Marijuana; Metabolic Steroids; Oxycodone
- Percocet; Codeine; Opium
Florida law has two meanings of possession, constructive and actual.
Actual possession means an individual had physical possession of the drug. This meaning can include:
- The drug was in his/her clothing
- The drug was on his/her body,
- The drug was in his/her hand.
- The drug was within his/her reach.
Constructive possession usually means an individual:
- Had the intent to possess the drug, and/or
- Was aware that the drug was in his/her presence,
- Had the ability to take control of the drug.