Tampa Drug Crime Lawyer
Florida has some of the toughest drug laws in the United States, in part because the state borders international waters. Being charged with a drug crime in Florida can lead to some very serious consequences. Anyone charged with a drug law violation needs aggressive and dedicated representation. The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group has the experience and diligence necessary to fight for you and protect your rights. Contact our experienced Tampa drug crimes lawyers for more information.
There are a variety of drug law violations that can result in jail time, probation, high fines, and loss of a driver’s license in Florida. They include possession, manufacturing, and the sale and delivery of drugs. The penalties depend on the type of drug, the intent of the person charged, and the amount of drugs seized.
Types of Drug Possession
When it comes to drug possession charges, there are two types in Florida—constructive possession and actual possession. You can be charged with actual possession if you have physical custody of the drug in question. For a charge of constructive possession, authorities have to prove you knew the whereabouts of drugs seized, such as having knowledge of drugs in a car you are in. Contact our Tampa drug possession lawyers for assistance.
Drug Possession Penalties
Some of the typical drug possession sentences in Florida are as follows:
- 2nd degree misdemeanor possession—up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine
- 1st degree misdemeanor possession—up to 1 year in prison and a $1000 fine
- 3rd degree felony possession—up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine
- 2nd degree felony possession—up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- 1st degree felony possession—up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Life felony—30 years to life in prison and a $15,000 fine
There are certain circumstances that can lead to an increase in penalties if you are facing a drug law violation in Florida. If you are considered a habitual offender (with a violent criminal history or prior felonies), a drug charge could be a first degree felony that is punishable with a life sentence. Also, if the alleged drug crime happens near or in a school, university, or involves someone under 18, the penalties are the most severe. A charge of capital trafficking can garner a life sentence.
Contact Our Aggressive Tampa Drug Defense Lawyers Today
Anyone charged with a drug crime should know their rights and have a skilled and aggressive attorney in their corner that will fight to protect those rights. At The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group we know there are unique circumstances to each case and every case can have a favorable outcome with the right attorney involved. Our firm will take the time to get to know the facts and will devise a defense strategy that can help ensure the best outcome possible for your case. In a drug law case, we will explore whether the search or seizure was legal or if entrapment was used. Our negotiating skills may even help get you a reduced sentence. Your job, family, and reputation may all be on the line. With so much at stake, you need a non-judgmental advocate who you can trust and count on to fight for you. When facing any kind of drug law violation, let The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group do all we can to help clear your name, protect your record, and safeguard your freedom. Our experienced Tampa drug crimes lawyer can help.
