Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer
The state of Florida takes drug trafficking seriously and is known for its tough stance against drug traffickers and dealers. A person caught with as little as four grams of an opioid can receive a minimum of three years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
If you have been charged with drug trafficking in Florida, your top priority should be fighting for your freedom. Criminal charges can ruin a person’s reputation and bankrupt them. Someone with felony drug trafficking charges against them may have difficulty finding employment after conviction.
Contact Parikh Law for a Free Consultation Today
If you have been arrested and charged with drug trafficking, working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer is one of the best steps you can take to navigate the complicated world of drug offenses.
Our team of criminal lawyers and legal assistants will work hard to get your drug trafficking charges reduced or dropped outright.
Our law firm represents defendants who have been accused of everything from marijuana sales to methamphetamine manufacturing. We know the law regarding illegal drugs, we have experience with drug trafficking cases, and we fight hard for our clients.
What to Do When You Are Arrested
It is natural to be nervous when the police pull you over or show up at your door. You should always be polite to law enforcement officers. Remember that you do not have to answer any of their questions, even if you feel that you have nothing to hide.
It is always a good idea to talk to an Orlando, FL, lawyer before answering questions and have them present when the police interview you. You have rights. You should invoke them.
Tell the officers that you want to speak to your attorney and that you will not waive any of your constitutional rights.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking
Over the last six years, drug use and drug overdose deaths have seen an increase in the United States. In response, Florida has passed some of the strictest drug laws in the country.
It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with drug laws in the Sunshine State and the penalties that come with them. There are a number of mandatory minimum sentences under Florida Statute § 893.135, and drug charges stemming from possession of a controlled substance can quickly turn into a major problem for your future.
Criminal Penalties for Trafficking of Marijuana in Orlando
Although attitudes and laws regarding marijuana have changed in America, recreational cannabis is still illegal in Florida. In early 2020, activists gave up on a ballot proposal that would have legalized recreational cannabis in the state.
Cannabis Possession Is Different Than Other Drugs
Fortunately, though, cannabis possession is handled differently than possession of other illegal drugs like heroin, methamphetamines, LSD, or other controlled substances.
25 Pounds or More
If a person is caught with 25 pounds or more of marijuana, or more than 300 plants, they will be charged with first-degree felony trafficking. A conviction can result in a minimum of three years in prison and a fine of at least $25,000.
2000 Pounds or More
If a person is convicted of possession of more than 2000 pounds of marijuana, they will go to prison for at least seven years and pay a fine of at least $50,000. If a person possesses over 10,000 pounds of marijuana, they will face 15 years in prison and a fine of $200,000.
Don’t Take Cannabis Charges Lightly
As you may be able to gather from these penalties for cannabis, working with a drug trafficking defense attorney in Orlando, FL, is one of the best steps you can take. Contact our law firm right away.
Defenses to Charges of Marijuana Trafficking in Florida
There are a few common defenses that attorneys employ in drug trafficking cases. The following are a few of many examples.
Unreasonable Search and Seizure
The constitution protects citizens from unreasonable search and seizure. If police officers do not follow protocol when they arrest a suspect, a lawyer may be able to get the charges against a defendant reduced or dismissed with certain motions and evidentiary hearings such as a motion to suppress.
Entrapment
If the police baited you into buying or consuming drugs, this may be considered entrapment.
Attorney Rahul Y. Parikh is a former prosecutor who has defended countless individuals charged with drug crimes ranging from simple possession to trafficking large amounts. If you are facing a drug possession charge, and especially a drug trafficking charge, you need a lawyer who will fight for you.
Parikh Law, P.A. has earned a reputation for aggressive drug trafficking defense in Orlando, FL. Check reviews online and then give us a call at 321-558-2704.
Penalties for Other Drugs
The following penalties apply to Orlando drug trafficking cases, but remember that simple possession is not considered drug trafficking.
Working with a lawyer can help distinguish these two types of charges and ensure that you do not face penalties that do not reflect your situation.
GHB Trafficking Penalties
If you possess more than one gram of GHB, you can be charged with first-degree felony trafficking. You can face a minimum of three years in prison and fines of $50,000. The fines and prison time only go up from there.
A person convicted of possessing more than 10 kilograms of the drug will face 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
Heroin Trafficking Penalties
If a person possesses more than four grams of heroin, they will be charged with felony trafficking in the first degree, and the minimum sentence is three years in prison and $50,000 in fines.
If a person is convicted of trafficking over 28 grams of heroin, they will go to prison for at least 25 years and pay half a million dollars in fines.
MDMA Trafficking Penalties
If you are convicted of trafficking more than 10 grams of MDMA, you can face up to three years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
Hydrocodone Trafficking Penalties
These prescription drugs are also popular street drugs. A person convicted of trafficking hydrocodone may face anywhere from three to 25 years in prison.
Trafficking Methamphetamine Penalties
If you are convicted of possessing more than 14 grams of meth, you will face at least three years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
FAQs for a Drug Trafficking Lawyer Orlando
Will I go to prison if I am convicted of trafficking in Orlando?
Most likely. Drug trafficking is a serious offense, and those convicted can face lengthy prison sentences. However, the sentence you receive will depend on the specific circumstances of your case.
Can I get a drug trafficking charge reduced or dismissed?
It is possible to get a drug trafficking charge reduced or dismissed in Orlando, but it depends on the specific facts and circumstances of your case.
An experienced attorney can help you explore your options and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Do I need a lawyer if I am charged with drug trafficking?
If you are facing trafficking charges in Orlando, it is advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Does a police officer need to identify themselves if asked?
This is a common myth that must be dispelled—an undercover officer has no legal obligation to identify themselves, and their decision to withhold this information does not constitute entrapment.
Contact Parikh Law Right Away To Connect With a Drug Trafficking Attorney Right
No matter the charges against you, we thoroughly research your case and discuss the laws regarding it. We communicate with you regularly and work hard to work out a plea deal for you or attack the weaknesses of the case.
Call Now To Request Your Free Consultation
We know how scary being in this situation can be. We’ll fight to keep you out of prison and at home with your family. Call an Orlando drug crimes lawyer on our team now at 321-558-2704.