Understanding Florida Drug Distribution Laws

The state of Florida aggressively prosecutes individuals accused of drug trafficking. Law enforcement agencies have drug crime units or joint task forces that specifically target drug trafficking. Under Florida law, Drug Trafficking is a first degree felony with severe mandatory minimum penalties (up to 30 years in prison). This means your future is at risk and a criminal defense attorney can help prevent the worst.

At The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger you will be represented by a former 15 year prosecutor in the major crime division who knows the law and knows how to attack the government’s case. If you were arrested for drug trafficking or face a drug trafficking investigation, contact us immediately.

Here are several reasons to hire our St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney:

  • Attorney Hessinger can help construct a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case.
  • He has the experience and knowledge of criminal laws, procedures, and evidence that you may not be aware of.
  • He can assist in negotiating plea deals with prosecutors or mitigating sentences, if found guilty.
  • He will advise you on potential legal challenges related to illegal search warrant, police entrapment, or coerced confessions.
  • If a trial is necessary, he will use his courtroom skills to effectively represent you in court and present relevant evidence on your behalf.

Contact us today to work with a St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney!

Effective Drug Distribution Defense Strategies

Attorney Tim Hessinger uses his knowledge of the prosecution process and legal experience to defend trafficking cases. Our team seeks to reduce trafficking charges to possession or obtaining a controlled substance by fraud. To do this, we ask questions such as: Did police exceed authority in a wiretap or search? What kind of deal did their informant get for implicating you? Was your conduct justifiable or excusable? If the government used a confidential informant to entrap you into committing a drug trafficking act, you may have an entrapment defense.

Understanding Mandatory Minimum Sentences

State drug trafficking laws impose mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking offenses involving drugs such as cannabis (marijuana), cocaine, and heroin. These sentences are laid out below, and can range from 3 years in prison to 25 years in prison and $500,000 in fines.

The total discretion to reduce your sentence from the mandatory minimum is with the state attorney. This means that you cannot ask the court to reduce your sentence — the court’s hands are tied. Our drug trafficking defense attorney is a former prosecutor. We understand how prosecutors prepare their cases and what evidence they need to reduce mandatory minimum sentences. We work with the state attorney’s office to negotiate an alternative for our clients.

Drug Distribution Involving Prescription Medications

Trafficking of controlled substances such as marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine and heroin lead to serious penalties. However, trafficking in prescription medication can also lead to many years in prison and large fines. Even if you only had five pills in your possession, you can be charged with drug trafficking. The government does not need to show proof of sale of the prescription drugs — just possession.

For example, possessing five OxyCodone pills (4.26 grams) carries a three year minimum mandatory sentence, while 33 OxyCodone pills can lead to 25 years in jail. Other commonly “trafficked” prescription medications include Vicodin (Hydrocodone), opium, morphine, Valium (Benzodiazepines), Ritalin (Methylphenidates) and Amphetamines.

Local Insights on Drug Trafficking in St. Petersburg 

St. Petersburg residents face unique challenges when it comes to drug trafficking laws. With the city’s proximity to major highways and its bustling port, the area is no stranger to drug trafficking, leading to intensified law enforcement efforts. Local agencies, such as the St. Petersburg Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, are actively working to combat drug-related crimes, making it critical for individuals to understand their rights and the legal landscape. 

Many locals may find themselves caught in the crosshairs of aggressive anti-trafficking policies. The fear of severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines, can be daunting. Additionally, the stigma associated with trafficking charges can severely affect personal and professional relationships, often leading to feelings of isolation and despair. Our team understands these challenges and is dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support to those facing drug trafficking allegations. 

Whether you are dealing with a drug trafficking charge related to prescription medications or illicit substances, our firm can help you explore all available options. We understand the complexities of Florida’s drug laws and the local enforcement environment, and we are committed to advocating for your rights and your future.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Drug Trafficking Defense

Our Florida drug trafficking defense attorney will sit down with you and discuss all of your options, including the risks and rewards of going to trial for drug trafficking.

Call us 24 hours a day at (727) 896-1501.

Florida Drug Distribution Penalties Explained

§ 893.135: Trafficking, mandatory sentences; suspension or reduction of sentences; conspiracy to engage in trafficking.

CANNABIS (the following represent “Trafficking in cannabis,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
In excess of 25 but less than 2,000 pounds or 300 or more cannabis plants3 Years + $25,000 fine
2,000 pounds but less than 10,000 pounds or is 2,000 or more cannabis plants7 Years + $50,000 fine
10,000 pounds or more or is 10,000 or more cannabis plants15 Years + $200,000 fine

COCAINE (the following represent “Trafficking in cocaine,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
28 grams or more, but less than 200 grams3 Years + $50,000 fine
200 grams or more, but less than 400 grams7 Years + $100,000 fine 
400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms15 Years + $250,000 fine

HEROIN (the following represent “Trafficking in heroin,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
4 grams or more, but less than 14 grams3 Years + $50,000 fine
14 grams or more, but less than 28 grams15 Years + $100,000 fine 
28 grams or more, but less than 30 kilograms25 Years + $500,000 fine

Call our St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney today at (727) 896-1501 and learn how we can help you!

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I am under investigation for drug trafficking in Florida?

If you are under investigation for drug trafficking in Florida, it is critical to act quickly. First, avoid speaking to law enforcement without legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you. Contact a qualified St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney immediately to discuss your situation. They can guide you on how to handle the investigation, protect your rights, and develop a defense strategy.

Can drug trafficking charges in Florida be dismissed?

Yes, drug trafficking charges can sometimes be dismissed, but it depends on the specifics of the case. For instance, evidence gathered through illegal searches, improper warrants, or police misconduct can be challenged and potentially excluded. If key evidence is thrown out, the prosecution may have to drop the charges. Your attorney will investigate every detail of your case, looking for flaws or weaknesses in the government’s evidence, to identify possible grounds for dismissal.

What happens if I’m charged with drug trafficking as a first-time offender?

First-time offenders in Florida can still face severe consequences for drug trafficking. Mandatory minimum sentences often apply regardless of prior criminal history. However, being a first-time offender may provide an opportunity for alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs or reduced charges through plea negotiations. Additionally, your attorney can highlight your clean record as part of your defense or in discussions with prosecutors. Early intervention by a skilled lawyer is critical to seeking the best possible outcome in your case.

Drug Trafficking

Understanding Florida Drug Distribution Laws

The state of Florida aggressively prosecutes individuals accused of drug trafficking. Law enforcement agencies have drug crime units or joint task forces that specifically target drug trafficking. Under Florida law, Drug Trafficking is a first degree felony with severe mandatory minimum penalties (up to 30 years in prison). This means your future is at risk and a criminal defense attorney can help prevent the worst.

At The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger you will be represented by a former 15 year prosecutor in the major crime division who knows the law and knows how to attack the government’s case. If you were arrested for drug trafficking or face a drug trafficking investigation, contact us immediately.

Here are several reasons to hire our St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney:

  • Attorney Hessinger can help construct a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case.
  • He has the experience and knowledge of criminal laws, procedures, and evidence that you may not be aware of.
  • He can assist in negotiating plea deals with prosecutors or mitigating sentences, if found guilty.
  • He will advise you on potential legal challenges related to illegal search warrant, police entrapment, or coerced confessions.
  • If a trial is necessary, he will use his courtroom skills to effectively represent you in court and present relevant evidence on your behalf.

Contact us today to work with a St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney!

Effective Drug Distribution Defense Strategies

Attorney Tim Hessinger uses his knowledge of the prosecution process and legal experience to defend trafficking cases. Our team seeks to reduce trafficking charges to possession or obtaining a controlled substance by fraud. To do this, we ask questions such as: Did police exceed authority in a wiretap or search? What kind of deal did their informant get for implicating you? Was your conduct justifiable or excusable? If the government used a confidential informant to entrap you into committing a drug trafficking act, you may have an entrapment defense.

Understanding Mandatory Minimum Sentences

State drug trafficking laws impose mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking offenses involving drugs such as cannabis (marijuana), cocaine, and heroin. These sentences are laid out below, and can range from 3 years in prison to 25 years in prison and $500,000 in fines.

The total discretion to reduce your sentence from the mandatory minimum is with the state attorney. This means that you cannot ask the court to reduce your sentence — the court’s hands are tied. Our drug trafficking defense attorney is a former prosecutor. We understand how prosecutors prepare their cases and what evidence they need to reduce mandatory minimum sentences. We work with the state attorney’s office to negotiate an alternative for our clients.

Drug Distribution Involving Prescription Medications

Trafficking of controlled substances such as marijuana, methamphetamines, cocaine and heroin lead to serious penalties. However, trafficking in prescription medication can also lead to many years in prison and large fines. Even if you only had five pills in your possession, you can be charged with drug trafficking. The government does not need to show proof of sale of the prescription drugs — just possession.

For example, possessing five OxyCodone pills (4.26 grams) carries a three year minimum mandatory sentence, while 33 OxyCodone pills can lead to 25 years in jail. Other commonly “trafficked” prescription medications include Vicodin (Hydrocodone), opium, morphine, Valium (Benzodiazepines), Ritalin (Methylphenidates) and Amphetamines.

Local Insights on Drug Trafficking in St. Petersburg 

St. Petersburg residents face unique challenges when it comes to drug trafficking laws. With the city’s proximity to major highways and its bustling port, the area is no stranger to drug trafficking, leading to intensified law enforcement efforts. Local agencies, such as the St. Petersburg Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, are actively working to combat drug-related crimes, making it critical for individuals to understand their rights and the legal landscape. 

Many locals may find themselves caught in the crosshairs of aggressive anti-trafficking policies. The fear of severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines, can be daunting. Additionally, the stigma associated with trafficking charges can severely affect personal and professional relationships, often leading to feelings of isolation and despair. Our team understands these challenges and is dedicated to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support to those facing drug trafficking allegations. 

Whether you are dealing with a drug trafficking charge related to prescription medications or illicit substances, our firm can help you explore all available options. We understand the complexities of Florida’s drug laws and the local enforcement environment, and we are committed to advocating for your rights and your future.

Schedule a Free Consultation for Drug Trafficking Defense

Our Florida drug trafficking defense attorney will sit down with you and discuss all of your options, including the risks and rewards of going to trial for drug trafficking.

Call us 24 hours a day at (727) 896-1501.

Florida Drug Distribution Penalties Explained

§ 893.135: Trafficking, mandatory sentences; suspension or reduction of sentences; conspiracy to engage in trafficking.

CANNABIS (the following represent “Trafficking in cannabis,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
In excess of 25 but less than 2,000 pounds or 300 or more cannabis plants3 Years + $25,000 fine
2,000 pounds but less than 10,000 pounds or is 2,000 or more cannabis plants7 Years + $50,000 fine
10,000 pounds or more or is 10,000 or more cannabis plants15 Years + $200,000 fine

COCAINE (the following represent “Trafficking in cocaine,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
28 grams or more, but less than 200 grams3 Years + $50,000 fine
200 grams or more, but less than 400 grams7 Years + $100,000 fine 
400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms15 Years + $250,000 fine

HEROIN (the following represent “Trafficking in heroin,” all of which are First Degree Felony Charges):

ChargeMandatory Minimum Sentence
4 grams or more, but less than 14 grams3 Years + $50,000 fine
14 grams or more, but less than 28 grams15 Years + $100,000 fine 
28 grams or more, but less than 30 kilograms25 Years + $500,000 fine

Call our St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney today at (727) 896-1501 and learn how we can help you!

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I am under investigation for drug trafficking in Florida?

If you are under investigation for drug trafficking in Florida, it is critical to act quickly. First, avoid speaking to law enforcement without legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you. Contact a qualified St. Petersburg drug distribution attorney immediately to discuss your situation. They can guide you on how to handle the investigation, protect your rights, and develop a defense strategy.

Can drug trafficking charges in Florida be dismissed?

Yes, drug trafficking charges can sometimes be dismissed, but it depends on the specifics of the case. For instance, evidence gathered through illegal searches, improper warrants, or police misconduct can be challenged and potentially excluded. If key evidence is thrown out, the prosecution may have to drop the charges. Your attorney will investigate every detail of your case, looking for flaws or weaknesses in the government’s evidence, to identify possible grounds for dismissal.

What happens if I’m charged with drug trafficking as a first-time offender?

First-time offenders in Florida can still face severe consequences for drug trafficking. Mandatory minimum sentences often apply regardless of prior criminal history. However, being a first-time offender may provide an opportunity for alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs or reduced charges through plea negotiations. Additionally, your attorney can highlight your clean record as part of your defense or in discussions with prosecutors. Early intervention by a skilled lawyer is critical to seeking the best possible outcome in your case.