December 7, 2020
It’s against the federal and state laws to carry illegal substances, and failing to adhere to them can lead to corresponding charges, which could land you in jail. Besides that, if you ever get caught for selling drugs, you can expect grave consequences that are worse than being taken in for drug possession.
No matter what your case may be, to help you get out of your situation, it would be best to have a reliable lawyer who can defend you in court. Keep reading below to find out more about drug possession and drug distribution and how to tell them apart.
What is Drug Possession?
Drug possession is a violation of carrying illegal drugs, whether for personal reasons, distribution purposes, or sales. Aside from the type of drugs in your control, the corresponding sentence will depend on the amount you have with you, the state you’re in, and the possible jurisdiction.
In addition, you can get arrested right away if the authorities prove that you can control the substances under your care. If the drugs you have with you are limited, it could indicate that you intend to consume the drugs for personal use, so your case is narrowed down to drug possession.
Types of Drug Possession
Actual Possession
Actual possession is also known as possession in fact. It occurs when the illegal substance is found on the suspect’s person or if they were seen making physical contact with the drug.
Constructive Possession
Constructive possession is also called possession in law. Based on the law, someone who has knowledge, access, or chance to control the drugs involved can be charged for constructive possession, regardless if they didn’t have the substances during the arrest.
What is Drug Distribution?
When you get caught for having a significant amount of drugs in your possession, including a substantial amount of money, law enforcers will automatically think that you have the objective of selling or distributing those substances. As a result, a case will be filed against you, which you will have to settle in court.
Drug distribution offers more severe consequences than drug possession because it’s a felony offense that could have you arrested for selling, transporting, and importing specific illegal substances like MDMA, heroin, cocaine, and meth, to name a few.
What Happens If You Get Caught for Carrying Drugs?
If you are accused of drug possession, the penalties you can face are paying fines, going to jail, being under probation, and getting your driver’s license suspended. But if you get caught for drug distribution, you can be charged with a felony, resulting in bigger fines and an extended sentence in jail or prison.
The consequences for drug distribution can be different, depending on the drugs in question, the amount you have with you, and the state where you committed the crime. If you chose to sell drugs to minors, have a previous history of a drug arrest, and distributed drugs while carrying a gun with you, they pose even more critical effects to your situation!
Conclusion
If you get caught in an unfortunate position that involves drug-related claims, it’s best to get a reliable attorney who has the right experience and knowledge to manage your case. They can help reduce the charges filed against you and provide you with the appropriate outcome that’s best for you.
Are you looking for a lawyer in Jacksonville to represent you in a drug trial? Dorsey Law JAX is a law practice that offers our assistance regarding family law, divorce, child custody, drug trafficking, drug possession, and more. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!
