Alternative Sentences For Florida Drug Offenses
Florida takes drug offenses very seriously, due to the potential harm to society in general, rather than the defendant as an individual. Its sentencing for these offenses is very strict, particularly compared to the guidelines in other states. However, there are cases in which the legal system may give an offender another chance to get past what may be one bad decision in an otherwise law-abiding life.
Harsh Sentences Do Not Prevent Crime
One might be inclined to wonder why any kind of alternative sentencing might be pursued for drug defendants; after all, historically, they have simply been jailed. Over time, however, statistics have shown that harsh sentences “cannot effectively reduce drug use or drug crime and are not cost effective.” If anything, they tend to increase recidivism because of the difficulty of ex-convicts in obtaining honest work and a place to live upon release.
Over time, however, legal analysts and authorities have come to realize that a focus on rehabilitation, where possible, both saves money and improves the overall outcomes for nonviolent offenders. As a result, alternative sentencing methodologies became more and more popular, though the method of sentencing may differ depending on the specifics of the offender’s situation.
Alternatives To Avoid A Criminal Record
If you have been charged with a drug crime like buying or possessing drugs, you may stand a chance at seeking an alternative sentence, particularly if you have never been in trouble with the law before. The offense of drug trafficking requires a mandatory minimum sentence, so state’s attorneys have no discretion to plea-bargain or make any other plan for someone who has been accused of that offense.
Depending on your case, a state’s attorney may choose to plea-bargain, which may result in a suspended sentence, or they may offer you access to a program known as drug court. Miami-Dade was the first district in the country to offer a drug court program, and the rest of Florida quickly followed suit. Drug court essentially puts your charges on the inactive docket while you complete substance abuse treatment and possibly anger management classes. If you fail in the program, your charges are re-instituted.
Contact A West Palm Beach Drug Offenses Attorney
While some offenders are not eligible for alternative sentencing – namely, anyone who has allegedly committed a violent offense – it is a good idea for your attorney to seek an alternative to jail time if your case fits the bill. A West Palm Beach drug offenses attorney from Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can help answer your questions about the legal system, and ensure that you have the best chance possible at a fair outcome. Call our office to speak to an attorney today.
