Marijuana, although, one of the more docile street drugs, is still illegal in the state of Florida. While some states have already legalized the use of marijuana, Florida has stuck to their guns. Even the use of marijuana — or “cannabis” as it is described in the statutes — for medical use did not pass in the 2015 legislative session. Synthetic marijuana is also illegal in the state of Florida, and in many ways, appears to be more dangerous than the use of authentic marijuana.
Another thing that has not changed much in Florida is that drug charges can be demeaning and costly. They can damage your reputation, put your job in jeopardy, put “future” jobs in jeopardy, ruin relationships and even have an effect indirectly on auto insurance rates. They are not something that you want plaguing you for the rest of your life.
The penalties you can face for possession of marijuana depends mostly on the amount of marijuana you are charged with. If it is under 20 grams, it is usually considered a misdemeanor, but you can still be facing up to a year in jail or prison and a fine of up to $1,000. If you are charged with possession of over 20 grams, you can face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Synthetic drug possession usually carries even stiffer penalties and fines. Possession with intent to sell is considered a felony and carries more serious sentencing and fines, as does growing and cultivating large amounts of cannabis.
You will want to have a good defense if you have been charged with any type of drug offenses. There are things that your attorney can do towards trying to get the charges thrown out or at least reduced. Helping you attend drug classes and rehabilitation programs can sometimes go a long way in showing the judge that you are serious about not committing the same crime again. Protecting your future is not something that you should take lightly.