About Felony Drug Charges
Being situated in the southern part of the country and with bodies of water nearby, Cocoa, Florida has a high number of bail bonds for drug charges. Even with the strict drug laws implemented by the state and at the federal level, there is a constant stream of illegal drugs coming into this area.
What is the difference between state and federal drug charges?
The battle has been longstanding when it comes to the federal government and each state combating drug abuse and distribution. A key difference between the state level and federal level is the states typically are dealing with the possession and sale of illegal drugs. Whereas the federal level has more drug trafficking.
With Florida being a coast state, it has all the above in its battle against drugs. Possession is a minor issue compared to the sale of drugs and then drug trafficking too. One example is bail bonds for drug charges are available in Florida for possession of marijuana for less than 20 grams, which the state will charge as a misdemeanor. When it is over 20 grams, bail bonds for drug charges are available for federal charges.
After a conviction is ruled, another difference between the drug charges for federal and state levels is the severity of the consequences and punishments. In Florida, an arrest for possession but no intention for distributing is typically filed as a felony or misdemeanor.
What are misdemeanor drug charges?
The law in Florida for drug possession charges will vary based on where in the schedule of controlled substances it is listed. The amount for bail bonds for drug charges will be determined by the arraigning judge when arrested. The misdemeanor drug charges are as follows:
- First-degree misdemeanor: A person that is facing charges of this level when found in possession of 20 grams of marijuana or less, or a Schedule V drug. If convicted, they could face penalties of maximum of 12 months in prison and/or a maximum fine of $1,000.
What drug charges are felonies?
The following are the possible drug possession charges in Florida:
- First-degree felony: Possessing over 10 grams of specific Schedule I drug with a possible penalty maximum of 30 years incarceration and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
- Second-degree felony: In this degree the person charged was found in possession of certain controlled substances listed in Schedule I and II. Possible punishment is a maximum of 15 years incarceration and/or a maximum fine of up to $10,000.
- Third-degree felony: A person found in possession of a specific controlled substance under Schedule I or Schedule II or any under Schedule III or Schedule IV drugs can be sentenced to up to 5 years prison time and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.
How do drug charges become federal?
Federal drug laws focus on drug trafficking between states primarily. The type of drug, amount, and location of the arrest will determine if the arrest will be handled by the state or at a federal level.
Possession of a substantial amount of a drug while crossing state lines is cause for a drug trafficking charge. Whether the defendant is going to be granted bail bonds for drug charges will be decided by the judge who will use several factors in determining the amount.
Federal drug charges can be filed when a person has been found selling drugs on any government property or using the post office for transporting drugs. And while many states have decriminalized certain levels of marijuana, under federal law, it is still illegal.
What happens when you get a felony drug charge?
In Florida bail bonds for drug charges are available for both felonies and misdemeanors. Once the defendant has appeared before the courts, if they are convicted, the possible penalty is a maximum of 30 years’ incarceration and/or a maximum fine of $10,000.
Possession of over 10 grams of any controlled dangerous substance will be charged as a 3rd-degree felony. Punishment is up to 5 years in prison and/or a maximum fine of $5,000.
Can felons with drug charges get a passport?
No. Even if you do not have any prior criminal convictions, are currently charged with a felony, or if you have an outstanding felony arrest warrant, your passport application will be denied.
Can drug charges be dropped?
You will need to hire a defense attorney that is experienced in how to defend drug charges to get the best outcome possible. Things that will factor into a judge’s decision are any previous drug charges and employment status currently as well as your standing in the community.
Bringing the Gavel Down – Bail Bonds for Drug Charges
If you’re arrested on drug charges of any level or type, it is important to obtain a defense attorney, whether you are guilty or not. In some cases, the attorney can sign for your release until the court date, other times, they will have to obtain bail bonds for drug charges if a family member or friend isn’t able to. Bail bonds for drug charges are typically higher than other charges, but not as high as for murder charges.
For help with bail for drug charges in Cocoa, FL call (321) 631-2663 today. The team at Ammediate Bail Bonds is here for you.
