Tampa Criminal Attorney > Tampa Drug Trafficking Attorney

Tampa Drug Trafficking Attorney

Trafficking illegal drugs is one of the most severe drug charges you can face — as a result, federal and state courts heavily prosecute anyone accused of drug trafficking. If you’re currently being investigated for drug trafficking, the charges and penalties you face depend on a number of factors. Regardless, it’s essential to understand that being convicted of a drug trafficking offense often results in a lengthy prison sentence, severe financial penalties, and a permanent criminal record. An experienced Tampa drug trafficking attorney can help to ensure that your legal rights are protected, while also securing you the best legal outcome. For a confidential and complimentary consultation with a Florida drug trafficking defense attorney, contact us online or call 813-461-5291.

Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida

Drug trafficking is typically defined as the possession, transportation, or importation of a controlled substance with the intent to sell or distribute. Each state has its own laws regarding drug trafficking. It’s important to note that in the state of Florida, you can be charged for the same crime by both the state and federal courts — without triggering double jeopardy. For example, trafficking 4 to 14 grams of opioids will result in a 3-year mandatory minimum sentence and a $50,000 fine from the state court, in addition to a minimum 10-year sentence in federal court.

The agencies responsible for investigating drug trafficking offenses include the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Penalties for Common Florida Drug Trafficking Offenses

If you’re being investigated for drug trafficking, the criminal charge you face is dependent on the classification of the controlled substance involved — as well as the amount you had in your possession.

Controlled substances include any chemical or drug that is regulated by the federal government, and are categorized according to how hazardous they are.

Marijuana Trafficking Penalties in Florida

Trafficking of marijuana in excess of 25 pounds a felony offense. If you’re found guilty of trafficking;

From 25 to 2,000 pounds of marijuana, you face a prison sentence of three years and a $25,000 fine.
From 2,000 to 10,000 pounds you face a minimum prison sentence of seven years and a $50,000 fine.

According to Florida law, judges can increase these mandatory minimum sentences for habitual offenders. If you have several prior convictions, you are more likely to face a longer prison term.

Opioid Trafficking Penalties in Florida

Opioids include drugs such as prescription opiates, heroin, fentanyl, and morphine. Trafficking of opioids in excess of 4 grams is a felony offense. If you’re found guilty of trafficking;

From 4 to 14 grams of opioids, you face a prison sentence of three years and a $50,000 fine. From 14 to 28 grams you face a minimum prison sentence of seven years and a $100,000 fine.
Over 28 grams up to 38 kilograms you face a minimum prison sentence of 25 years and a $500,000 fine.

Cocaine Trafficking Penalties in Florida

Trafficking of cocaine in excess of 28 grams is a first-degree felony offense. If you’re found guilty of trafficking;

From 28 to 200 grams of cocaine, you face a prison sentence of three years and a $50,000 fine.
From 200 to 400 grams you face a minimum prison sentence of seven years and a $100,000 fine.
Over 400 grams up to 150 kilograms you face a minimum prison sentence of 15 years and a $250,000 fine.

Conviction of a drug trafficking charge carries severe legal and personal consequences. If you’re found guilty of drug trafficking in Florida, you could lose your right to drive, and face social repercussions such as the loss of your job or educational scholarships.

OA Law Firm’s experienced Tampa drug trafficking defense lawyerscan help you fight your drug trafficking charges. Our law firm is committed to aggressively defending your legal rights. Call us today at 813-461-5291 for a free and confidential consultation.

Building a Drug Trafficking Defense Case in Florida

When prosecuting a drug trafficking crime, the state must be able to definitively prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, the following four elements:

That the accused knowingly possessed, purchased, sold, delivered, brought or manufactured a specific substance;
The substance was an illegal drug;
The quantity of the substance was over the minimum required according to the law
The accused was aware of what the substance in question was

Due to the severe minimum mandatory sentencing for drug trafficking crimes in Florida, it’s crucial that you retain the help of an experienced Florida drug trafficking attorney. There are several commonly used defenses for drug trafficking charges, and a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best one for your individual case.

Possible drug trafficking defenses in Florida include;

Evidence against you was obtained via illegal search and seizure, for example, if there was no valid search warrant or if the warrant was improperly executed.
A violation of your legal rights occurred
You are a victim of entrapment. For example, if the police induced you to commit a crime that you would not otherwise be predisposed to engage in.
A lack of evidence that proves the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.

It’s important to note that a lack of knowledge of whether a substance is controlled or not can also be an affirmative defense. For example, if a jury reasonably doubts that the defendant was aware the substance was a controlled substance, they can find the defendant not guilty.

In addition, Substantial Assistance is also a common factor in drug trafficking cases. Although not technically a defense, Substantial Assistance is an option that enables drug trafficking defendants to avoid the minimum mandatory sentencing for their charge. In exchange for assisting Florida law enforcement to convict others of the same crime, the state attorney can offer a reduced sentence — or even suspend a sentence — of a person convicted of drug trafficking.

Building a successful Florida drug trafficking defense requires an in-depth knowledge of both state and federal law. When fighting drug trafficking charges, it’s crucial that you retain an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal system. For a free, confidential discussion with a Tampa drug trafficking defense attorney, contact us online or call 813-461-5291.

Why Should I Choose an OA Law Firm For Tampa Drug Trafficking Defense?

OA Law Firm understands that facing prosecution for a Florida drug trafficking charge can cause untold amounts of stress. Omar Abdelghanyis a Tampa criminal defense lawyer who is committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for every client he represents.

From the very first conversation, OA Law Firm’s dedicated federal defense attorneys take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions. Your best interests are paramount to us, and we strive to help every one of our clients navigate their drug trafficking defense case with ease.

Successfully fighting drug trafficking charges requires an experienced and aggressive legal counsel. Tampa drug trafficking attorney Omar Abdelghany gained extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system during his time as a trial attorney at the Palm Beach Public Defender’s office — so you can rest assured you’re in capable hands.

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