Have you been charged with a drug crime in Miami-Dade County, Broward County, or Palm Beach County? The state of Florida is notorious for imposing harsh penalties for many drug crimes, and the consequences of a conviction could follow you forever. Having an experienced Florida drug crime lawyer from George Law on your side can make a critical difference.
Our reputable law firm provides aggressive and effective defense while protecting your rights from the start. We get to know you, then take the time to understand your life story, future goals, and the perspectives of your friends and family. Our lawyers see you as a whole person, which means we’re able to craft legal strategies that reflect who you really are.
We also focus on helping you take meaningful steps to improve your potential outcome. Many of our clients are referred for substance abuse assessments, psychological evaluations, therapy, or counseling. This approach shows courts and prosecutors that you’re committed to making positive changes.
You have legal rights. With us on your side, we can help preserve them. Contact George Law at our Miami office today for your free, no-obligation consultation with a Florida drug crime attorney.
Why You Need a Florida Drug Crime Defense Lawyer
Florida law treats different substances, amounts, and circumstances very differently. Possession of Schedule I or II drugs, trafficking, or intent to sell can lead to long prison sentences and lasting impacts on your life.
At George Law, our drug crime attorneys in Florida understands how local courts in Miami, Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties operate. We know how prosecutors approach cases, which judges handle drug offenses, and what defenses have the most impact. Acting quickly after an arrest gives you the best chance to achieve the best possible resolution.
Our law firm takes a holistic approach to defense. We don’t just see a case file; we see you. Our lawyers can craft a defense strategy that reflects the person you are, not just the charges you face.
Unlike many other criminal defense practices, our lawyers do all the work themselves; we don’t hand things off to a paralegal or junior attorney. We collaborate closely and stay on top of every detail, allowing us to build the strongest case possible.
With a dedicated drug crime lawyer in Florida by your side, you have the support necessary to protect your rights and future. Reach out to us today for your free, confidential case review.
How Can You Protect Your Rights During and After a Drug Arrest?
Taking the right steps early after an arrest can protect your rights and strengthen your defense. You have protections under both state and federal law; knowing how to use them can make a big difference in protecting your rights and getting the best result possible.
If you’ve been arrested, you should take the following steps:
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent – Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you. Don’t talk to anyone unless you have a Florida drug crime attorney present.
- Exercise Your Right to an Attorney – By contacting a drug possession lawyer or federal drug charges lawyer in Florida as soon as possible, you have an advocate who can start crafting your defense.
- Avoid Consenting to Searches – Never allow a search without a warrant. Do note, though, that any evidence the police gather unlawfully may be excluded from court.
- Preserve Evidence – Keep anything that could support your defense, such as texts, emails, receipts, or witness statements.
- Limit Social Media Posts – Statements online can be used in court and may harm your defense, so it’s best to go dark on your social media channels.
A Florida drug crime attorney can guide you through pretrial hearings, bail proceedings, and investigations to help you make informed decisions every step of the way. With direct, hands-on legal support from George Law, you’ll get the guidance and advocacy needed to protect your rights and your future.
What Are the Different Types of Drug Crimes in Florida?
Understanding the differences between drug offenses can help you see both the seriousness of the charges you’re facing and why contacting a drug crime attorney in Florida as soon as possible is so important.
Common drug crimes prosecuted under Florida law include the following:
- Possession
- Possession with intent to sell
- Trafficking
- Distribution
- Manufacturing
What Are Florida’s Drug Possession Laws?
Florida drug possession laws and punishments depend on the type of drug, the amount, and the circumstances of the arrest. They include the following:
- Controlled Substance Schedules – Florida law classifies drugs into schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use, which is similar to federal law. Schedule I drugs (like heroin) carry the harshest penalties.
- Actual vs. Constructive Possession – Actual possession means drugs are found on your person. Constructive possession means they were in a place you controlled, like your car or home, even if they weren’t on you.
- Misdemeanor vs. Felony Possession – Possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis is typically a misdemeanor. Possession of most other controlled substances, or larger amounts of cannabis, is a felony.
- Penalties – Depending on the charge, penalties can include jail or prison time, probation, fines, driver’s license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse treatment.
- Enhancing Factors – Possession near schools, parks, or other designated areas can result in harsher penalties under Florida law.
What Are the Sentences for Drug Felonies and Misdemeanors in Florida?
Florida drug laws have a wide range of punishments. Misdemeanor drug offenses are the least serious, but they can still carry lasting consequences, including those involving Florida legal drugs. For example, simple possession can be punishable by up to one year in jail, probation, and a fine of up to $1,000. Felony drug charges are far more serious and can result in lengthy prison sentences and significant fines.
The most severe penalties apply to first-degree felony drug trafficking offenses. Florida law sets weight-based thresholds for trafficking charges. As an example, possessing more than 28 grams of cocaine is considered trafficking and carries a mandatory minimum of three years in prison, with possible sentences of up to 30 years.
What Are the Collateral Consequences of a Drug Crime Conviction in Florida?
A drug crime conviction in Florida can have consequences that could affect your job and housing. The following are examples.
- Employers often conduct background checks, and a drug offense can make it much harder to secure or keep a job.
- Certain professional licenses, such as those for nurses, teachers, or real estate agents, may be suspended or revoked after a conviction.
- Landlords may deny housing applications based on criminal records.
- Colleges can deny admission or financial aid.
- Immigration consequences can be severe, including potential deportation.
What Are the Different Drug Schedules?
Florida classifies controlled substances into five schedules. These schedules group drugs based on their accepted medical use and potential for abuse or dependence. The lower the schedule number, the more serious the state considers the substance.
Understanding where a substance falls on this list matters because it directly affects the charges and potential punishment in a Florida drug case. The following are examples:
- Schedule I – Substances with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin, LSD, and MDMA.
- Schedule II – Substances with a high potential for abuse but some accepted medical use, including cocaine, oxycodone, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.
- Schedule III – Substances with a moderate potential for abuse, such as anabolic steroids and certain prescription medications.
- Schedule IV – Substances with a lower potential for abuse, such as Xanax, Valium, and other anti-anxiety medications.
- Schedule V – Substances with the lowest potential for abuse, including cough syrups with small amounts of codeine.
What Are Common Defenses in Florida Drug Possession Cases?
Defending a drug possession case in Florida often involves challenging whether the arrest was legal or if the evidence is enough to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defenses include arguing that law enforcement conducted an illegal search or seizure in violation of the Fourth Amendment. Other defenses may involve police error or improperly handled evidence.
What Are Alternative Resolutions to Drug Crimes in Florida?
Florida courts may offer options beyond traditional criminal prosecution. These options can reduce or even dismiss charges for certain drug offenses. Pretrial diversion programs and drug court programs focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, requiring participants to complete certain outside programs. Deferred prosecution or probation agreements can also allow you to avoid a permanent conviction, as long as you successfully complete the program requirements.
Fully participating in these alternatives can show the court that you are taking meaningful steps to address any underlying issues, which can positively influence your outcome. More importantly, working with a skilled Florida drug crime lawyer can help you figure out which programs apply to your situation, guide you through enrollment, and ensure that your rights remain protected throughout the process.
Contact a Florida Drug Crime Defense Attorney Today
If you’re facing drug charges in Miami or within Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach counties, you need a Florida drug crime lawyer who handles your case personally, aggressively, and collaboratively. At George Law, our attorneys work together to understand your story and your case. We guide you through every step of the legal process, from pretrial hearings to alternative resolutions, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.
Don’t try handling charges as serious as drug possession on your own. Instead, turn to George Law, where our Florida defense attorneys can tailor a compelling defense tailored to your situation and keep your legal rights protected. Call today for your free, no-obligation consultation with a drug crime attorney in Florida.