There are many rules and regulations around substance possession, manufacturing and distribution. These regulations are enforced by the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). The CSA also influences criminal charges for illegal substance possession.
To understand the severity of a drug possession charge in Florida, it is often important to understand how drugs are classified under the CSA. Here is what you can learn:
How are drugs classified?
The CSA classifies substances under schedules. There are a total of five different drug schedules, each determining the medical use and severity of abuse of a drug. These five drug schedules include:
- Schedule V: Cough medicine and antidiarrheal drugs, for example, are Schedule IV substances that have the lowest potential for abuse and are frequently obtainable in stores.
- Schedule IV: Valium, Ambien and Xanax are a few Schedule IV drugs that have a mild potential for abuse and may be acquired over the counter or with a prescription.
- Schedule III: Ketamine, testosterone and steroids are classified as Schedule III substances because of their mild tendency to cause abuse and medical restrictions.
- Schedule II: Drugs that have very few medical uses because of their high abuse rates are classified as Schedule II substances, such as cocaine, Ritalin, oxycodone and fentanyl.
- Schedule I: There are no known medical uses for Schedule I substances, such as peyote and heroin, because of their severe rate of abuse.
A criminal conviction for drug possession may depend on the type of scheduled substance that was possessed, manufactured or distributed.
What are Florida drug possession charges?
A drug schedule is one of the few factors that can influence a criminal trial, including the amount of a drug that was manufactured or in possession and the intended use of a drug. Penalties for drug possession in Florida range from misdemeanor to felony charges. Misdemeanor charges could include up to one year behind bars and up to $1,000 in fines. A felony conviction can lead to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
Legal guidance can help people fight drug possession charges. Suspects can learn about their defense options to protect their future.