Drug possession allegations in Tampa may cause stress and confusion. To navigate this legal terrain, it is important to understand state and Federal laws. Tampa DUI Lawyers are well versed in all aspects of criminal law, even drug possession allegations.
Tampa and the rest of Florida charge drug possession from a small amount of pot to heroin or cocaine. Type and quantity of drugs determines the severity of charges. Regardless of details, charges for drug possession can affect a person’s entire life. From career opportunities to relationships, they have the power to change everything.
Drunk possession defences are often used to challenge the lawfulness of a police search or stop. If the police do not follow strict guidelines they may risk evidence being thrown out in court. Tampa professional lawyers examine their client's arrests to determine if there were constitutional violations. Evidence may be thrown out in court if authorities search without a warrant and/or a reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed.
A second defense involves questioning the ownership of drugs. It is possible that drugs discovered in a vehicle or residence do not belong to the defendant. Prosecutors have to prove that the accused controlled and knew the drugs. The task can be challenging, especially when multiple people are able to access the drugs.
A second area of defense is the chain-of-custody for evidence relating to drugs. The chain of custody must be transparent from the moment drugs are seized to their presentation in court. This chain can be used by defense attorneys to doubt the validity of evidence. Tampa drug possession lawyers examine the process to look for mistakes that might weaken prosecution.
A competent lawyer can also handle the complicated allegation for constructive possession. This law covers narcotics found in a vehicle or shared apartment. In these cases, it is up to the State to show that the accused was in control of the drug and area. If the defense is able to show that its client was not in control or had sole access, charges can be dropped.