Drug Possession

Drug Possession Attorney in Coral Gables

A Defense Built Around the Search, Evidence & Possession Allegation

A drug possession charge can depend on where a substance was found, who could access it and whether police conducted a lawful search. At Jonathan Blecher, P.A., we examine each issue while defending clients in Coral Gables and the Greater Miami Area.

Jonathan Blecher served as an Assistant State Attorney in the region before entering private defense practice. He brings more than four decades of experience and insight into how prosecutors evaluate possession evidence. Established in 1993, our firm has handled more than 5,000 cases.

Call (786) 977-9355 for a free evaluation of the charge, the evidence and your legal options.

Florida Drug Possession Charges & Misdemeanor Consequences

Florida law prohibits possessing a controlled substance without a valid medical prescription. Controlled substances are divided into five schedules based on factors such as their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. Most unlawful possession involving substances in Schedules I through IV is governed by Fla. Stat. § 893.13(6).

Possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis is a first-degree misdemeanor. Possession of a Schedule V controlled substance is a second-degree misdemeanor. The precise classification depends on the substance, amount, prescription status and evidence supporting the allegations.

A misdemeanor drug conviction can carry up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, depending on the degree of the misdemeanor. It can also appear during background checks. We evaluate the specific charge and its potential legal and practical consequences.

What Prosecutors Must Establish in a Possession Case

Prosecutors must present evidence connecting the accused person to the controlled substance. Actual possession generally means the substance was found on or carried by the person. Constructive possession applies when the substance wasn’t physically on the person, but the prosecution alleges that the person knew about it and could control it.

Constructive possession can become a central issue when police find a substance in a shared vehicle, room or other area accessible to multiple people. Proximity alone doesn’t establish possession. We examine who controlled the location, what statements were made and whether other evidence supports the alleged connection.

Our evidence review may address:

Unlawful searches: Whether officers had a valid legal basis for the stop, detention, search or seizure.
Possession allegations: Whether the evidence proves knowledge and control, particularly when several people had access to the location.
Forensic evidence: Whether laboratory testing identified the alleged substance and chain-of-custody records show how the evidence was collected, stored and transferred.

Police frequently add a drug paraphernalia allegation involving items such as scales, syringes or pipes. Possession of drug paraphernalia is a first-degree misdemeanor under Fla. Stat. § 893.147. We assess that allegation separately, including whether the item and surrounding evidence support the prosecution’s claimed use.

How a Drug Possession Case Proceeds in Coral Gables

A case generally moves from an arrest or charging decision into court proceedings, evidence review and resolution. The Coral Gables District Court is part of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit and handles misdemeanor matters for the area. The path forward depends on the charge, criminal history, evidence and available legal options.

Our review begins with the basis for the police encounter and any search. We then examine the alleged possession, witness or officer accounts, laboratory materials and handling of physical evidence. This analysis can identify grounds to challenge evidence, dispute possession, negotiate an appropriate resolution or prepare the case for court.

Continue Reading Read Less

Trusted When It Matters Most.

See What Our Clients Say

“If there was a 100 star rating he would be 100/100”
Jonathan was amazing. He answered a late evening call and helped assist me with a very troubling set of circumstaces. He worked on related matters for several hours thereafter. If there was a 100 star rating he would be 100/100. Thanks again Jonathan!

- Tim
“Thank you!”
Jonathan's pricing was very fair. He was able to get the charges dropped and lowered to lesser charges. I would use him again if I had a need to.

- Steven
“Excellent Attorney”
Outstanding: Mr. Blecher was swift, thorough and he did exactly what he said he would. His experience and professionalism were noticed every step of the way. His communication was timely and effective. I would definitely recommend him with high regard.

- Faith
“Absolutely recommend calling him”
I had such a great experience with attorney Jonathan Blecher . He went out of his way to make sure he explained all of my options and did so with kindness and respect . I would absolutely recommend calling him if you are in need of legal assistance. He is truly a professional .

- Monica
“Excellent Attorney”
Jonathan is knowledgeable and efficient! He is an outstanding attorney and I highly recommend his services. I have nothing but excellent feedback for Jonathan Blecher and his firm!

- Ana
“Straight forward, honest and professional”
Jonathan is an absolutely first-class attorney! He provided me with candid, timely legal advice at a moment’s notice—after a recent auto accident. Most importantly, he was straightforward, honest, and professional…I highly recommend.

- Daniel
“Went above and beyond. Can't thank him enough. Great attorney!”
- Chris
“Jonathan went way above and beyond”
Jonathan went way above and beyond to assist in a difficult scenario. His proactive approach to the situation including late night and early morning phone calls was outstanding and provided a level of calm during the storm.

- Matt
“He is one of the few lawyers I'd hire if I were arrested for DUI in Miami/Dade county”
I endorse this lawyer's work. He is respected amongst his colleagues, clients, and members of the judiciary alike. John has been a trail-blazer in the field of DUI/DWI defense and has an excellent success rate. He is one of the few lawyers I'd hire if I were arrested for DUI in Miami/Dade county.

- Lloyd

Criminal Defense Experience Applied to Possession Charges

We analyze charging decisions, police reports and weaknesses in the state’s proof, drawing on Jonathan Blecher’s background in both prosecution and criminal defense.

Our firm holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a peer-review rating recognizing professional ability and ethical standards. Clients also receive direct attorney access and a clear point of contact throughout their defense.

Discuss Your Charge & Legal Options

We offer free case evaluations so you can discuss what happened, understand the allegations and identify issues that need immediate review. Virtual consultations are available, and you can speak directly with the attorney handling your case.

Call (786) 977-9355 to discuss your Coral Gables drug possession charge with Jonathan Blecher, P.A.

Diversion, Drug Court & Record Relief

Some first-time drug offenders may qualify for pre-trial intervention or a similar diversion program. These programs can provide an alternative path, but participation depends on the charge, case history and applicable program requirements. Admission isn’t automatic.

Miami-Dade Drug Court may offer a treatment-based alternative for qualifying non-violent drug possession charges. Eligibility depends on the circumstances and the program’s criteria. We can evaluate whether diversion or treatment court is a realistic option and explain the obligations involved.

Record sealing and expungement may also be available in qualifying cases under Fla. Stat. §§ 943.059 and 943.0585. These are separate forms of record relief, and eligibility depends on factors including the case outcome and prior record. We help qualifying clients pursue the appropriate process without suggesting that every possession case can be sealed or expunged.

Continue Reading Read Less