Cocaine

Cocaine Possession in Florida

In Florida, possessing even a small amount of cocaine carries serious consequences. Unlike other states where possession may qualify as a misdemeanor, Florida classifies cocaine possession as a third-degree felony. As a Level 2 offense under Florida’s sentencing guidelines, this charge can lead to up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine—even when the amount falls below the threshold for trafficking.

Key Questions in Cocaine Possession Cases

When facing a cocaine charge, your defense begins by examining the initial police contact. Did law enforcement have a legal reason to stop or search you? Did they have the authority to search your vehicle, home, or person where the cocaine was found?

A strong defense also challenges whether the prosecution can prove you possessed the cocaine beyond a reasonable doubt. Florida law recognizes two types of possession: actual and constructive. If officers did not find the cocaine directly on your person, such as in your hand or pocket, prosecutors must prove constructive possession.

To do that, they must show:

1. You knew the cocaine was present

2. You had the ability to control it

3. You understood the substance’s illegal nature

Proving these elements becomes more difficult when more than one person had access to the area where the drugs were found.

Example: Police lawfully search a home and find cocaine under the bed shared by a married couple. Neither spouse admits ownership, and no additional evidence links the drugs to either person. In such cases, the state may struggle to prove constructive possession.

Cocaine Possession Penalties

A conviction for cocaine possession can result in:

• Up to five years in prison

• Five years of probation

• A $5,000 fine

• Mandatory drug treatment

• Community service

• Random drug testing at your expense

• A two-year driver’s license suspension

If you have no prior record, the court may offer alternatives to jail, such as probation or entry into a diversion program.

Legal Strategy for Cocaine Charges

An experienced criminal defense attorney will first explore whether you qualify for Early Resolution or Drug Court in Seminole or Orange County. These programs can reduce penalties or dismiss the charges entirely if completed successfully.

Your lawyer may also file motions to suppress evidence if law enforcement violated your rights during the stop or search. If the evidence appears weak or illegally obtained, your attorney could request a dismissal. When necessary, your defense team will prepare for trial and challenge the prosecution’s case on every front.

Contact a Cocaine Possession Lawyer in Seminole County

If you face a cocaine possession charge in Sanford, Lake Mary, Altamonte Springs, or surrounding areas, contact Ryan Yadav at Yadav Law. Our office is available 24/7 to protect your rights and your future.