Tampa Drug Crimes Lawyer

Tampa Drug Crimes Attorney

If you have been charged with a drug-related crime in Tampa, you likely have a lot of legal obstacles ahead of you that could have an impact on your freedom, reputation, and future. A conviction of possession, intending to distribute, or other drug crime charges could lead to harsh penalties, including large fines and jail terms. A Tampa drug crimes lawyer can provide a strong legal defense to protect your rights and future.

Don’t face these charges alone. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense.

How Our Team Can Help

A successful outcome in a drug crime case depends on selecting appropriate legal representation. Our team of criminal defense attorneys at Jeff Marshall Law have the knowledge and experience our clients need to face drug-related charges in Tampa. Our in-depth understanding of Florida drug laws allows us to create compelling defenses that are specifically catered to the needs of each individual client.

Your case won’t be handled like just another file. We provide individualized attention to our clients because we know the circumstances of your case are not the same as others. Instead, we collaborate directly with you at every stage to develop the strongest defense possible. We do this by thoroughly investigating your case, interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and more.

Types of Drug Charges in Florida

Florida includes a wide range of criminal charges for drug infractions. Some of the most typical offenses are:

• Possession of a controlled substance. This entails being in possession of an illicit substance such as methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, or marijuana. Florida divides restricted substances into five schedules according to their recognized medical uses and misuse risk. Depending on the drug and where it falls on the schedule scale will play a role in how your criminal charges are applied.
• Possession with intent to distribute. The penalties for possessing narcotics with the intent to sell or distribute are far more severe than those for ordinary possession. Evidence that includes large sums of cash, packaging materials, or substantial amounts of narcotics may be used to support a possession with intent to distribute the accusation.
• Drug trafficking. Large-scale drug manufacturing, distribution, transportation, and possession are all a part of drug trafficking. In Florida, trafficking is one of the most serious drug offenses, in which convictions could mean significant jail time and fines. These offenses can also be subject to federal charges, making the legal process even more complex.
• Drug manufacturing. This offense entails the manufacturing or production of illicit narcotics such as meth production or marijuana growing. Charges of drug production frequently include other connected offenses, including possession of narcotics or drug-making materials.
• Prescription drug fraud. The unlawful acquisition and distribution of prescription drugs, such as Oxycodone, Xanax, and Adderall, is an increasing concern in Florida. This offense can include anything from prescription forgery to doctor shopping. Prescription medication fraud convictions may lead to felony charges, which have the potential for severe consequences such as lengthy jail terms and hefty fines.

These are just a few examples of the types of criminal drug charges a person could face. Understanding the charges against you can help build a defense with your attorney that could keep you out of jail and free of fines. With the team at Jeff Marshall Law, you gain the experience you need to navigate such complicated processes.

Florida’s Penalties for Drug Crimes

The severity of the punishments for drug offenses in Florida varies greatly depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, the offense, and the defendant’s past criminal history. For instance, under 20 grams of marijuana may be charged as a misdemeanor and carry a $1,000 fine with a maximum one-year jail sentence. Even a modest amount of heroin or cocaine, however, is usually charged as a felony, carrying hefty fines and longer prison sentences.

Mandatory minimum sentences apply to more serious offenses such as manufacturing or trafficking, requiring the court to impose a minimum term of imprisonment that can vary from three to 25 years or longer. The outcome of such sentencing is dependent on the quantity of narcotics involved. Drug trafficking charges frequently carry larger criminal penalties.

Beyond the legal ramifications, a drug conviction can have a lasting impact on your life. These repercussions might include losing professional licenses, having trouble obtaining work, and not being eligible for some government programs. The team at Jeff Marshall Law is dedicated to helping you avoid such circumstances.

Defending Drug Charges

When facing drug allegations, it is imperative to have a strong legal defense. Frequently employed defense tactics involve contesting the lawfulness of the search and seizure, casting doubt on the veracity of the evidence, and contending that the accused did not intentionally possess the narcotics. These defenses may be able to have the charges dropped completely or reduced in some circumstances.

Florida Drug Arrest Rate

In 2023, Florida reported 88,623 drug-related arrests, resulting in a statewide arrest rate of 390.7 per 100,000 residents. This statistic highlights the continued enforcement focus on drug offenses across the state. The rate reflects both minor and serious drug-related charges and underscores the legal risks individuals face in Florida when involved with controlled substances.

Your future is worth fighting for. Call a Tampa drug crimes lawyer now and take the first step toward your defense.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Charge in Florida?

A: A criminal lawyer’s fee in Florida is based on several variables, including the case’s complexity, the attorney’s experience level, and the client’s location. In some situations, prices can be set as hourly rates or flat fees. Serious felony charges may translate into more fees than minor cases. Whether the matter is settled by negotiations or goes to trial will also affect the cost. Discussing fees with a potential attorney can help prepare you for the costs you could incur.

Q: Do First-Time Drug Offenders Go to Jail in Florida?

A: First-time drug offenders in Florida may face jail time, especially for felony charges. However, for non-violent offenses, there are alternatives such as probation, Drug Court, and diversion programs that may be available. These alternatives seek to substitute imprisonment for treatment or education.

Q: Can You Get Probation for a Felony Drug Charge in Florida?

A: Yes, probation is a potential outcome for a felony drug charge in Florida, though it’s not automatically granted and depends on the details of the case. For certain felony drug offenses, particularly non-violent, first-time offenses that are classified as third-degree felonies, Florida law provides alternative sentencing options. These may include drug offender probation, which emphasizes treatment and monitoring over jail time, or enrollment in a drug court program that focuses on rehabilitation through structured supervision and compliance with court-ordered conditions.

Q: What Is the Punishment for Drug Possession in Florida?

A: Punishment for drug possession in Tampa, Florida depends on factors like the type of drug and the amount involved. Penalties can range from fines and probation to jail or prison time. Misdemeanor possession typically results in lighter penalties, while possession of more serious controlled substances can lead to harsher consequences, including felony charges and significant prison sentences. Penalties may increase for repeat offenders.

Tampa Drug Crimes Lawyer

If you have been accused of a drug offense, securing legal representation is crucial. Our team at Jeff Marshall Law can help defend you against these allegations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.

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