Orlando Heroin Trafficking Lawyer

Florida Heroin Trafficking LawyersDrug trafficking, which involves the possession or distribution of large quantities of illicit substances, is a serious offense in Florida and carries with it some of the harshest drug-related penalties in the country. Even a drug trafficking conviction involving small amounts of controlled substances can result in jail time. Heroin in particular is perhaps judged and penalized harsher than other substances because of its ability to ravage lives through its physically addictive effects.

The consequences that stem from a heroin trafficking conviction may not only lead to incarceration and fines but can also affect your career, education, immigration status, housing, and reputation. If you’re a Florida resident, tourist, or student who’s been arrested for heroin trafficking, it’s essential that you retain an experienced Orlando heroin trafficking lawyer as soon as possible. Fortunately, help is right around the corner. At The Umansky Law Firm, we strive to help our clients evaluate their options and ultimately reduce or eliminate the penalties associated with a conviction.

What Constitutes Heroin Trafficking in Orlando?

Florida Statute 893.135(1)(c)(1) defines heroin trafficking by the following terms:

“A person who knowingly sells, purchases, manufactures, delivers, or brings into this state, or who is knowingly in actual or constructive possession of, 4 grams or more of…heroin…commits a felony of the first degree, which felony shall be known as ‘trafficking in illegal drugs…’”

In other words, a heroin offense is considered trafficking if you possess, sell, purchase, manufacture, or deliver four or more grams. The penalties associated with a heroin trafficking conviction in Florida—which is labeled as a felony offense with a level eight or nine severity ranking—depend on the amount involved, your criminal history, and other factors. The penalties are as follows:

  • Between four and 14 grams: A prison sentence of between three and 30 years and a $50,000 fine
  • Between 14 and 27 grams: A prison sentence of between 15 and 30 years and a $100,000 fine
  • Between 28 and 29 grams: A prison sentence of between 25 and 30 years and a $500,000 fine
  • 30 or more grams: A mandatory life sentence and a $500,000 fine

Additional penalties may include the suspension of any professional licenses as well as a suspension of your driver’s license.

Potential Defense Strategies for Heroin Trafficking in Orlando

With the snowballing drug epidemic, the federal government is often overzealous in prosecuting drug crimes—especially those involving the trafficking of illegal drugs. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime, and your criminal defense lawyer’s duty is to fight for justice and fairness on your behalf.

There are multiple strategies that your lawyer may utilize to encourage prosecutors to reduce or completely eliminate the penalties associated with a heroin trafficking conviction. These strategies include:

  • Illegal search and seizure: It’s against the law for authorities to perform a search or issue a warrant without probable cause.
  • Entrapment: Law enforcement officers often participate in situations where they convince those they’re attempting to catch in the act that they’re potential customers or involved in the drug trade, which can be illegal in certain situations.
  • Insufficient evidence: If there’s a lack of evidence to support a conviction or evidence was secured illegally, your attorney may be able to help you reduce the charges associated with a conviction.
  • Substantial assistance: In 1986, Congress established incentives that would decrease sentences in exchange for assistance in the investigation or prosecution of another criminal.
  • Lack of knowledge: Your lawyer may argue that you didn’t know the substance found near you was illegal.

If you’ve been charged with heroin trafficking or have questions about the crime, get in touch with an experienced Orlando criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. A heroin trafficking conviction can follow you, limit your ability to work certain jobs, deteriorate your reputation, and force you to face serious statutory penalties.

Contact the Orlando Heroin Trafficking Attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm

Florida has some of the toughest laws against drug trafficking in the country. If you or a loved one has been arrested for heroin trafficking and you need help protecting your rights, the expert legal team at The Umansky Law Firm can help.

As former prosecutors and public defenders on a state and local level, our Orlando heroin trafficking can provide you with a sound strategy and a concrete defense based on years of experience working in the Florida criminal justice system. We understand the ins and outs of Florida drug laws and aim to protect our clients from further punishment and damage to their reputation.

With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has the time and expertise to launch an investigation into your case and the circumstances leading up to your arrest. We’ll work tirelessly to fight for your rights. Call (407) 228-3838 or complete our online contact form to receive a free consultation.

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    Orlando Heroin Trafficking Lawyer
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