Fort Lauderdale Drug Crime Attorney

Experienced Defense Lawyers Fighting Drug Charges in Broward County

Florida has some of the most severe penalties for drug offenses in the nation. Those arrested for possessing and/or selling drugs face the possibility of probation, jail, or even prison time. Many drug charges result from police officers' investigative techniques such as search warrants, controlled deliveries, controlled buys, electronic surveillance, and the use of police K-9's to "sniff" for drugs. Often, the person arrested was not even in actual possession of any drugs at all. However, police still may arrest that person for being in "constructive" possession of drugs.

At the Law Offices of Jeffrey S Grossman, LLC, our Fort Lauderdale drug crime lawyer is familiar with these cases and know how to defend against them.

Our drug crime attorney will fight for you if you have been arrested for any drug-related offense. Call (954) 280-8811 or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation.

Have You Been Arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance?

Local prosecutors take drug possession charges seriously, and charges and potential penalties vary depending on the drug, the amount in question, and the intent of the accused. Our firm can represent individuals facing even the most serious drug charges, from those involving Schedule I drugs (considered the most dangerous and likely to be abused) to Schedule V drugs (prescription and over-the-counter medicines).

Here in Florida, many drug possession charges commonly involve these controlled substances:

• Marijuana (cannabis): In Florida, charges, incarceration, and fines vary greatly depending on the amount of marijuana found in your possession. For example, possession of less than 20 grams is considered a misdemeanor resulting in possible jail time of one year and a $1,000.00 fine. If a defendant is charged with trafficking marijuana, the penalties and fines are more significant. Trafficking quantity in excess of 25 pounds of marijuana carries a minimum sentence of three years in prison and a $25,000.00 fine.
• Cocaine: In Florida, cocaine possession charges generally stem from people possessing small amounts of the drug for recreational use. Despite the quantity, the crime is a felony carrying a maximum five-year sentence and $5,000.00 fine.

• Flakka (methamphetamines): A drug similar to cocaine or speed (methamphetamine), which can cause psychosis and fits of rage, resulting in violent harm to others. Possession of this drug is a felony with a penalty of up to 5 years of incarceration, suspension of your driver’s license, and a $5,000.00 fine.

• Oxycodone: Possession of fewer than 4 grams is considered a third-degree felony in Florida unless you have a prescription for it. Having more than 4 grams in your possession can be construed as trafficking. If convicted, you could have your driver's license revoked for one year, receive up to 5 years of probation or up to 5 years in prison, and a $5,000.00 fine.

The Consequences of a Drug Conviction in Florida

Depending on the amount and type of drugs found in your possession, you could be facing a minimum mandatory prison sentence ranging from 3 to 30 years in the State of Florida. If convicted of any drug possession offense in the State of Florida, you also face a mandatory driver license revocation and fines/costs that can amount to thousands of dollars. Factors such as the quantity and type of drug in your possession, and what you intended to do with the drugs (personal use, intent to sell, etc.), can tilt the balance of your offense being charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, which imposes longer jail time and harsher penalties.

Based on the facts of your case, there may potentially be drug treatment programs and other rehabilitative options available to you in lieu of extensive jail or prison time. Your criminal defense lawyer can help you understand any options that may be available in your case.

What is the Punishment for Drug Trafficking in Florida?

Trafficking is a much more severe crime resulting in harsher penalties and imprisonment if the defendant is found guilty. Drug trafficking is a first-degree felony in Florida and carries a possible maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.

If the accused is a repeat offender, the Court will take the criminal history into consideration and repeat offenders will likely receive a harsher sentence if convicted.

Your Trusted Fort Lauderdale Drug Crime Attorney

With such a wide range of potential penalties, it is essential that you contact a drug crime lawyer with experience defending drug charges. Our firm will aggressively defend you against these types of charges with the experience born from having handled more than ten thousand criminal cases.

Contact our team online or call (954) 280-8811 to speak with our experienced Fort Lauderdale drug crime attorney today.