Depending on the circumstances, a drug charge can result in up to a year in county jail, or up to life in prison. In Florida (the Sunshine State) and federal court, these are classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Military courts define them by special or general court-martial, governed by the maximum punishment sought.

 

It all depends on whether you have been charged with, for example, possession of a controlled substance like marijuana, or something more serious like cocaine, heroin, ecstasy (MDMA/Molly), methamphetamine (meth). And how much.

 

Abuse of pain management prescriptions also remains a top priority for law enforcement.

 

It also matters whether you are charged with simple possession, or intent to distribute, or trafficking. And if you have a prior record, the consequences are even higher.

 

Even if you can avoid confinement, you can be ordered to pay severe fines. You can lose your right to vote, own a firearm, hold public office, or serve on a jury.  

 

You may even default on, or be prohibited from getting, a federal student loan.

 

Every case is different, but one thing is certain. Because the stakes are so high, it is important to work with a lawyer experienced in drug cases who will proactively work on your case early to obtain the best outcome possible.