Drug Trafficking in Florida

Drug trafficking is one of Florida’s most serious drug crimes. Knowing, unlawful possession of a quantity covered by the trafficking statute can support a conviction even without proof of an intent to sell.

What is Drug Trafficking?

Florida Statutes § 893.135 sets specific trafficking thresholds for covered substances. These include weight thresholds and, for cannabis, a plant-count threshold. Trafficking charges can involve unlawful possession of prescription drugs. Examples of drugs covered by the statute include:

  • Methamphetamine
  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • Heroin
  • Oxycodone

Personal use does not defeat a trafficking charge when the State proves knowing, unlawful possession of the required quantity.

Possible Penalties for Drug Trafficking

Florida drug trafficking offenses are felonies. The substance and quantity determine the applicable mandatory minimum prison term and fine. Prior convictions and other facts can also affect the sentence. Any available relief from a mandatory minimum depends on the law and circumstances of the case.

Defenses to Drug Trafficking Charges

There are many defenses you can raise against drug trafficking charges. These defenses include:

  • You lawfully possessed the drugs (e.g., you had a valid prescription)
  • You didn’t realize you had the drugs
  • The evidence seized was not a controlled substance
  • You were simply an innocent bystander at the wrong place and wrong time

A defense lawyer should also examine how police obtained the drugs and any statements. If officers violated your rights, a motion to suppress evidence may prevent prosecutors from using that evidence. Whether suppression is available depends on the facts and governing law.

Attorneys can often help in the most difficult of cases, even when there do not appear to be any available legal defenses.

You must contact an attorney as soon as possible if you have been accused of drug trafficking in Miami. The attorneys in our firm are dedicated to protecting your rights and will do everything in their power to secure the best possible outcome for you. You must hire an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your drug trafficking case does not negatively affect your reputation, career, or personal life.

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