3 FAQs about Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida

If you’re facing serious drug crime charges, it’s only natural to feel completely out of your depth. Florida’s lawmakers have taken a hard stance against what they deem drug dealing, so you should expect to face harsh penalties such as fines, community service, and even a lengthy sentence behind bars. 

However, these punishments often pale in comparison to the long-term effects of having a conviction on your record. Not only can this charge affect your ability to get a job, but you may also struggle to further your education, apply for loans, and rent a home or apartment.

Thankfully, a conviction isn’t inevitable. There are ways to fight drug trafficking charges and, if you’re successful, you may be able to drastically reduce your penalties or even have the charges dropped. In this article, we answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about drug trafficking crimes in Florida:

1. What Is Drug Trafficking?

Unlike possession, which is defined as the willful possession of an illegal substance, for a drug trafficking charge to “stick”, police are required to show that you were involved in the purchasing, manufacturing, delivering, or transportation of a drug into Florida. Alternatively, they could also demonstrate that you were carrying a “trafficking amount” of a particular drug. The criteria for this amount will depend on the type of substance in your possession.

2. What Are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking?

The answer to this question will depend on not only the type of drug you were carrying, but also the volume and whether you have prior convictions. For instance, if you were convicted for possessing 25 to 2,000 pounds of marijuana (or more than 300 plants): you will have to serve a minimum of three years behind bars and pay a $25,000 fine. Alternatively, the penalties for heroin trafficking are far more serious, with those caught carrying between 14 grams to 30 kilograms of the substances receiving a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 25 years.

3. Can I Fight a Drug Trafficking Charge?

While you might think that your fate is sealed, it may still be possible to defend yourself against the charges. There are many strategies you can employ, and the best ones for your defense will depend on the unique circumstances surrounding your case. For instance, if you can show that you were not the individual in control of the substances, or, for example, were unaware that the drugs were on your property, you may be able to have the charges reduced or the case against you dismissed. 

Discuss Your Case with a Palm Beach Gardens Drug Crime Lawyer Today

Were you arrested and charged with drug trafficking? A strong defense could help you avoid jail time and many of the other penalties associated with this serious charge. 

Attorney Todd A. Kawecki can meet with you to discuss your case, and explain some of the strategies he might use to help you secure a favorable outcome. With experience working as a former prosecutor, Todd knows what it takes to prevail in even the most complex cases. Schedule a free consultation with a Florida drug crime lawyer today by calling 772-485-4500 or by dropping us a message using our contact page HERE.