Florida legal term
Potential for abuse in Florida Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Florida legislative session
In Florida criminal law, “Potential for abuse” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Florida criminal code.
What does “Potential for abuse” mean in Florida criminal law?
“Potential for abuse” means that a substance has properties of a central nervous system stimulant or depressant or an hallucinogen that create a substantial likelihood of its being:(a) Used in amounts that create a hazard to the user’s health or the safety of the community;(b) Diverted from legal channels and distributed through illegal channels; or(c) Taken on the user’s own initiative rather than on the basis of professional medical advice.Proof of potential for abuse can be based upon a showing that these activities are already taking place, or upon a showing that the nature and properties (Fla. Stat. § 893.02)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.