St. Petersburg Drug Possession Defense Attorney
A drug possession charge in St. Petersburg is more than a legal issue. It can disrupt your job, your family, and your future. Whether you were arrested near Pinellas Park or stopped by police downtown, a single incident can lead to serious criminal charges under Florida law. You may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next — but you do not have to face this alone.
What Florida Law Says About Drug Possession
Florida law classifies drug possession as a criminal offense, even for small amounts. If the substance is a controlled substance like cocaine, heroin, or certain prescription drugs without a valid prescription, you could be facing a felony charge. This could mean prison time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Drug possession is often charged as a third degree felony, which carries penalties of up to five years in prison. If the amount is large or there is evidence of intent to sell, prosecutors may pursue more serious charges, such as drug trafficking or possession with intent to distribute.
Where Drug Arrests Happen in St. Petersburg
Many drug arrests in Pinellas County happen during traffic stops, routine searches, or investigations in high traffic areas like Central Avenue or near university campuses. Sometimes people are charged after being searched without a warrant or during an unrelated stop.
If drugs are found in a shared vehicle or home, you could be charged with possession even if the substances were not yours. The state attorney’s office often uses constructive possession charges, where proximity or access is enough to prosecute. These cases are more common than most people realize and require careful legal defense.
Why You Need a Defense Attorney for Drug Charges
Drug charges can lead to lifelong consequences. A conviction for a drug offense may result in driver’s license suspension, exclusion from certain jobs or schools, and problems with housing or professional licensing. The legal consequences go far beyond jail time.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system, challenge the evidence, and protect your constitutional rights. From questioning the search to negotiating with the prosecutor, a skilled lawyer will work to have charges dismissed, reduced, or diverted through programs like pretrial intervention.
How a St. Petersburg Drug Crime Lawyer Can Help
A criminal defense lawyer will examine every aspect of your arrest and the charges filed by the state attorney’s office. This includes how the drugs were found, whether the stop was legal, and whether the amount or substance qualifies under felony thresholds.
They can also help you understand your legal options, such as plea negotiations, treatment alternatives, or motions to suppress evidence. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior criminal cases, your defense attorney will focus on your best interest and a path forward that protects your future.
Free Consultation With a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorney at Hersem Law
If you are facing drug possession charges in Pinellas County, Hersem Law offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case. Our St. Petersburg drug crime lawyer will provide strong legal representation and fight to reduce or eliminate the impact of a drug arrest on your life.
FAQs About Drug Possession Charges in St. Petersburg
What are the penalties for drug possession in Florida?
Penalties vary based on the type and amount of the drug. Possession of a controlled substance can be charged as a third degree felony with up to five years in prison.
Can I be charged if the drugs were not mine?
Yes. Florida law allows for constructive possession charges, which means you can be prosecuted if you had access to or control over the drugs, even if they were not yours.
Will a drug conviction go on my criminal record?
Yes. Unless your charges are dropped or sealed, a drug conviction becomes part of your permanent criminal record and can affect future opportunities.
What if I was found with prescription drugs?
If you do not have a valid prescription, possession of those drugs can lead to criminal charges. A defense attorney can help prove legal use or fight improper charges.
Can a defense attorney help me avoid jail?
Yes. Depending on your record and the facts of your case, your attorney may pursue diversion programs, pretrial intervention, or plea agreements that avoid jail time.
