Each state has different laws, penalties, and rules about drugs and controlled substances. Florida has traditionally been more strict than other states when it comes to criminal charges relating to controlled substances. The guidelines for the penalties of drugs in a given state are usually based on schedules set up.
These schedules organize controlled substances into tiers and are generally sorted by the level of addictiveness or danger each drug presents to society. Schedule I is the most dangerous, and Schedule IV is the least harmful or addictive.
Florida Schedules are as follows:
Schedule I: These are generally the most severe, including drugs like LSD and heroin, but many people are surprised to learn that Florida considers marijuana as a Schedule I substance.
Schedule II: These substances are highly addictive, including PCP, cocaine, opioids, and various types of methamphetamines.
Schedule III: These substances have some accepted medical uses and have a high risk of addiction, including codeine and anabolic steroids.
Schedule IV: These are drugs that have widely-accepted medicinal uses but are often obtained illegitimately through prescription fraud. This can often include Xanax or Valium.
Certain drugs, like cocaine and methamphetamine, are restricted at both the federal and state level, which may, in turn, make your charges more severe.
What Should You Do Next?
If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug-related, often the next best step to take is to talk to a criminal defense lawyer. The cost of fines combined with the cost of having a conviction on your record can be detrimental.
At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we may be able to help with your charges today. Call us today to talk to someone about setting up your defense for your case. (386) 693-1637.
