April 18, 2018
In the State of Florida, marijuana remains illegal unless it used for medical purposes by an individual who has obtained a doctor’s authorization to use it. If you are charged with or convicted of a crime related to the possession or distribution of marijuana, you will have a criminal record. This record will be accessible to the general public—including prospective schools and employers. Many employers and educational institutions routinely perform criminal background checks on prospective students and employees, and the existence of a drug-related conviction or arrest could significantly reduce your chances of obtaining admission to a school or employment.
If you have been arrested or charged with a marijuana crime, you should not delay in seeking experienced legal representation in your case. The St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyers at Khonsari Law Group may be able to help you obtain a dismissal of your marijuana charge or a favorable plea deal with the prosecution. If you are ultimately found guilty or convicted of your charge, a criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you minimize the impact of the conviction on your life.
Marijuana Drug Crimes in Florida
In Florida, a person may be arrested or charged with marijuana possession, marijuana distribution, or possession with intent to distribute, depending upon all of the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Even if you are charged or even just arrested—but not convicted—there will still be a record of the incident. A criminal record consisting of charges and arrests can have a negative impact on your current and future educational and employment goals.
Impact of a Marijuana Charge or Arrest on Employment Prospects
Employers frequently perform criminal background checks on both current and prospective employees. A criminal record—even for drug convictions—can potentially result in:
- Not receiving job offers
- Losing a current job
- Losing a professional license, such as a CDL license
Impact of a Marijuana Charge or Arrest on Educational Prospects
Much like employers, colleges and universities frequently undertake criminal background checks on prospective students. If admissions staff finds that you were arrested, charged, or convicted of a marijuana drug crime, you may be denied admission to the school of your choice. Furthermore, if you are a current student, you may lose your scholarship funds.
Obtaining a Criminal Records Expungement
In some case, you may be able to have the records of a drug offense expunged. A Florida criminal records expungement wipes the slate clean, so to speak, and usually results in the complete destruction of one’s criminal record. Moreover, the general public will no longer be able to review your record.
In deciding whether or not to expunge a criminal record containing a marijuana charge or arrest, the judge will consider:
- The amount of time that has passed since your arrest, drug charge, or conviction
- The circumstances surrounding the drug crime or charge
- Any danger to the community-at-large by expunging the record
Call a St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Lawyer to Discuss Your Case Today
A criminal record—even one without a conviction—can significantly impact a person’s professional future. The criminal defense lawyers at Khonsari Law Group may be able to assist you with eliminating or reducing your marijuana charge or with obtaining a criminal records expungement. To discuss your marijuana-related arrest, charge, or conviction with a criminal defense attorney, call our office today at (727) 269-5300 or contact us online.