As former Florida prosecutors, we’ve tried hundreds of cases and bring a rare insider’s perspective to every defense. We understand how cases are built on both sides, which helps us negotiate more effectively, positioning each case for the strongest possible outcome.
Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous and heavily prosecuted substances under Florida law. Because of its extreme potency, even small amounts can lead to severe felony charges and mandatory prison time. If the police arrest you for possessing, trafficking, or distributing fentanyl, contact an attorney as quickly as possible.
The Umansky Law Firm’s drug defense attorneys—many of whom are former prosecutors—have decades of experience handling high-stakes drug cases throughout the state. Our Sanford fentanyl lawyer understands how local law enforcement and state attorneys pursue fentanyl prosecutions, and could use that knowledge to anticipate their tactics and defend you effectively in court.
Under Florida Statute § 893.13, possession of fentanyl falls under two categories: actual or constructive. Courts have interpreted this statute to mean that actual possession requires that the substance was found on your person or within immediate reach, whereas constructive possession means the fentanyl was nearby. Prosecutors will allege that you knew of its presence and were able to control what happened to it.
If the quantity of fentanyl allegedly in your possession is under four grams, the charge is typically a third-degree felony. Conviction can result in up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, and a potential driver’s license suspension (at the court’s discretion).
To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove both knowledge and control of the fentanyl beyond a reasonable doubt. Our fentanyl attorney in Sanford may challenge an illegal search or seizure, question the reliability of lab testing, or move to suppress evidence obtained without a valid warrant.
Under Fla. Stat. § 893.135, when the amount of fentanyl equals or exceeds four grams, the charge escalates to trafficking. Importantly, trafficking charges apply even without proof of intent to sell. The current statutory minimum penalties for fentanyl trafficking depend on the quantity: 4–14 grams carry a three-year minimum prison term and a $50,000 fine, 14–28 grams incur a 20-year minimum sentence and a $100,000 fine, and 28 grams or more will lead to a minimum of 25 years in jail and a $500,000 fine.
Trafficking in fentanyl is a first-degree felony because of the drug’s high potential for fatal overdose. Prosecutors often rely on weight alone—including mixtures or cutting agents—to determine the trafficking level. Our fentanyl attorney can contest how the Sanford authorities collected, handled, and analyzed evidence and expose violations in police procedure or chain-of-custody issues that undermine the prosecution’s case.
State law criminalizes the sale, delivery, or distribution of fentanyl, even if only small quantities are involved. These offenses are prosecuted under Fla. Stat. § 893.13 and, depending on the facts, can be classified as first-degree felonies when linked to trafficking quantities. Investigations often involve controlled buys, informant testimony, or undercover surveillance.
Our Sanford fentanyl attorney may challenge unreliable informant testimony, dispute allegations of intent to sell, or argue that officers entrapped you through coercive undercover tactics. Your attorney may also question the accuracy of surveillance footage, recorded evidence, or laboratory testing to weaken the state’s case.
Because each case depends on the substance weight and surrounding circumstances, sentencing can vary widely—from probationary outcomes to multi-decade mandatory terms. We could negotiate plea reductions, argue for alternative sentencing, or fight the charges outright at trial.
The state prosecutes fentanyl cases aggressively, but a strong defense begins with local representation. Our criminal defense attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm have decades of trial experience and a deep understanding of the local court system. We work to uncover every opportunity for dismissal, reduced sentencing, or alternatives to prosecution, such as the drug court program.
Our team brings the insight of former prosecutors, proven trial experience, and a steadfast commitment to protecting our clients’ rights. If you face accusations of fentanyl possession, trafficking, or distribution, we are ready to defend you. Contact our Sanford fentanyl lawyer for a confidential consultation.
The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Attorneys
The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Attorneys
