Fighting Drug Charges And Getting The Best Results Possible

A drug charge and conviction can leave a major stain on your personal and professional life. You can face incarceration, steep fines and probation as well as potential job termination. Whether you made a serious mistake or were wrongfully arrested by an overzealous police officer, you need a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your rights.

For 24 years, McNelis Law, P.A., in Bartow, has been a reliable and results-oriented Florida law firm. I am founding attorney Stacey H. McNelis, and I defend individuals accused of drug crimes. Having grown up here, I understand the community and am well-versed in the local and state laws. I know that the people of Polk County work hard and need a dependable legal advocate when they’re faced with criminal charges.

Skillfully Guiding You Through The System

As a skilled negotiator and experienced litigator, I prepare well for each case and am highly effective. I will pursue every legal option, including getting the charges reduced or dismissed or securing an acquittal at a jury trial. I have represented clients in a variety of cases, including the following:

• Possession of controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine
• Possession of controlled substances with intent to sell
• Cultivation and manufacturing of drugs
• Possession and distribution of illegal prescription drugs
• Illegal drug sales on the internet

The legal system can be complicated and intimidating, especially when you’ve been charged with a criminal offense. I will guide you through the system and seek the best results possible for you.

Answering Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes And Convictions

Take the time to learn more about the criminal justice system, especially for those facing drug charges in Florida. Here are a few common questions about drug charges and how they might affect your case.

How does Florida law differentiate between different types of drugs?

Florida classifies controlled substances into five schedules, depending on their potential for abuse, medical value and safety profile:

• Schedule I: Substances with high abuse potential and no accepted medical use (heroin, LSD)
• Schedule II: High abuse potential with severe physical or psychological dependence (cocaine, methamphetamine)
• Schedule III: Moderate abuse potential (anabolic steroids, ketamine)
• Schedule IV: Low abuse potential (Xanax, Valium)
• Schedule V: Lowest abuse potential (certain cough medicines with codeine)

When you enlist the help of a drug crime attorney, this information becomes crucial in building your defense.

What are Florida’s laws regarding medical marijuana, and how do they affect drug charges?

The state allows medical marijuana use for qualifying patients who have a valid Medical Marijuana Use Registry (MMUR) identification card and a note from a doctor. Possession without proper documentation remains illegal, as does recreational use.

Patients must follow strict quantity limits and cannot drive while impaired. Remember that medical marijuana authorization never permits possession of other controlled substances.

Can drug charges be reduced or dismissed in Florida?

Yes, drug charges in Florida can lead to reduced penalties or dismissal through proper legal representation. Your drug crime attorney may identify issues with evidence handling, question search procedures and/or negotiate with prosecutors. Many first-time offenders qualify for diversion programs that can clear their records after completion.

Are there any local diversion programs available for drug offenders?

Polk County offers several diversion programs for eligible drug offenders, including adult drug court with both misdemeanor (four-month) and felony (12-month) tracks. These programs focus on treatment rather than punishment. Participants must complete individualized treatment plans, maintain sobriety, attend counseling sessions and submit to random drug screenings.

First-time offenders with no violent criminal history may qualify for the misdemeanor program. Those who complete this program can have charges removed from their records, allowing them a second chance and a pathway to a drug-free future.

Call My Firm For A Free Consultation

Drug crimes are serious offenses that can result in prison time and tarnish the offender’s reputation for years. If you are facing such criminal charges, you need a fearless advocate who will fight for your rights. A McNelis Law, P.A., in Bartow, I am committed to my clients and have been representing them for 24 years in central Florida. For a free consultation, contact my firm online or call 863-410-0041.