Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Drug trafficking, which involves the possession or distribution of large quantities of illicit substances, is a serious offense in Florida that carries some of the harshest drug-related penalties in the country. Even a drug trafficking conviction involving small amounts of controlled substances can result in imprisonment, hefty fines, and a tarnished reputation. If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Florida, you may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, confusion, and unease. Fortunately, a knowledgeable drug defense lawyer may be able to fight for your rights and protect your interests throughout the legal process. If you or someone you know is under investigation, under arrest, or otherwise implicated in a drug trafficking offense, it’s critical to have a skilled Orlando drug trafficking lawyer on your side, especially before making a statement to police, investigators, or federal agents. At The Umansky Law Firm, our Orlando drug trafficking defense lawyers are dedicated to protecting you from the consequences that stem from this offense.

What Is Considered Drug Trafficking in Florida?

Drug trafficking is defined as the intentional sale, purchase, manufacture, delivery, possession, or transportation of a certain amount of drugs that are considered at or above the “trafficking limit.” This may include cocaine, opiates, methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, or any other drug listed under The Controlled Substance Act. Offenses vary depending on the type of substance, the amount, associated activities, and prior convictions.

When most people think of drug trafficking, they imagine transporting, delivering, or selling controlled substances. However, manufacturing, purchasing, or possessing illegal drugs may also be considered drug trafficking if certain conditions are met. In this case, drug charges may climb to the level of trafficking if the weight of the substance exceeds the statutory limits. For example, possessing more than 28 grams of cocaine—even if you had no intention to sell or deliver—may land you a minimum mandatory prison sentence for drug trafficking rather than the less severe punishment for drug possession.

It’s also important to note that more severe allegations may be prosecuted at the federal level as opposed to the state or court level. We can help protect you from trafficking charges for a variety of drugs, including the following:

Learn more about Florida drug trafficking laws by reading our breakdown.

Florida Drug Trafficking Penalties

Trafficking penalties can vary depending on the weight and type of drugs that are seized by law enforcement. Trafficking of any kind carries a minimum mandatory prison sentence that can range from 3 to 25 years. Fines can range from $50,000 to $500,000. Seeking a reduction in mandatory sentencing is only permitted if the defendant is under 21 years of age or if they provide substantial assistance, otherwise known as “snitching.” To view a detailed breakdown of the mandatory sentences for each controlled substance, check out our Florida drug trafficking statutes page.

Defenses for Drug Trafficking Charges

When handling a drug trafficking case, one of the first documents we review is the police report. This helps us see how the police approached you, how the drugs were seized, and how evidence was collected. It’s not uncommon to find that law enforcement used an invalid warrant, utilized an illegal recording device, or lacked the evidence required to connect you with illegal substances. When this is the case, the state may drop the charges or dismiss your case. Consider the following defenses:

  • 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. We look for any signs that you may have been entrapped or had your rights violated.
  • 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: As part of a 1986 law that created mandatory minimum sentences for drug crimes, Congress established sentence reduction incentives 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.
  • Unreliable confidential informants: When someone is offered a deal that reduces or throws out the possibility of jail time in exchange for information, the evidence provided isn’t always accurate. We check to see if any actions were taken based on false information, which is ultimately key to building a strong case in your defense during negotiations or at trial.

If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking or have questions about the crime, get in touch with an experienced Orlando drug trafficking defense lawyer as soon as possible. A drug 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 Drug Trafficking Attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm

If you have been arrested for drug trafficking in Florida and need help protecting your rights, the skilled legal team at The Umansky Law Firm can help. As former prosecutors and public defenders on a state and local level, our Orlando criminal defense attorneys 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 serve 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. Give us a call or complete our online contact form to  receive a free consultation.

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