What If You’re Falsely Charged with Illegal Drug Possession?

Have you been unjustly arrested or falsely charged with illegal drug possession? It’s a frightening experience and unfortunately, not uncommon. While penalties for illegal drug possession are often less severe in Florida than in many other states, it does not mean that a conviction here can’t result in life-shattering repercussions. When you are faced with illegal drug possession – particularly if you are innocent – it’s critical to have the help of a criminal law firm experienced in local Florida criminal courts.

Types of Drug Possession Charges

The circumstances supporting proof of possession are divided into two main categories: actual possession and constructive possession.

Actual possession refers to a charge arising from illegal drugs found on your person or immediate control. Constructive possession refers to a charge regarding drugs that were not on your person but jointly possessed or that you were aware of on your property. According to HG.org Legal Resources, an arrest can be made for drugs that aren’t yours, but were only discovered in a car or home that is yours, even if you weren’t on the premises at the time of discovery. Regardless of the type of possession in question, it’s essential to know your plan of action and your available defenses or resources if you’re arrested for illegal drug possession in the Orlando area.

How Can Drug Charges Happen If You Didn’t Possess The Drugs?

The short answer is: a lot of different ways! If police discover illegal drugs in your car, house, or other property, you may be immediately considered the primary suspect unless you can prove right away that someone else lives on or owns the property. According to Lawyers.com, you’re likely to be charged with illegal drug possession even if you were simply riding in the car with someone who does have illegal drugs; and if the police believe that you knew the other person was in possession of the drugs at the time.

What To Do If You’re Falsely Accused of Drug Possession?

If you’re unjustly arrested for possessing drugs that aren’t actually yours, remember to let the following tips and guidelines influence your immediate actions and reactions:

• Don’t resist arrest
• Tell the officers that you want to speak to a lawyer
• Contact an experienced criminal legal team
• Disclose only your name and other basic personal information
• Say absolutely nothing else to the police – remember that even innocent people have received serious charges as a result of saying something ill-advised to the police during a criminal investigation.  Don’t you make the same mistake.

It’s important to keep in mind that police and law officials are forever and always hearing the line “That’s not mine!” But, law enforcement officers and judges are required to let the evidence tell the tale. Just because you are charged or arrested the story isn’t over.  It is just beginning.  You can be acquitted with the help of a criminal defense attorney. Get legal advice today! Call 407-425-4044 or contact us online for a free consultation.

The Law Office of Donald A. Lykkebak

Phone: 407-425-4044

Orlando Office:

390 N. Orange Ave., Suite 2300

Orlando, FL 32801

Winter Park Office:

250 S. Park Avenue, Suite 200

Winter Park, FL 32789