Pinellas County Drug Charge Lawyer

The penalties associated with drug charges can carry serious and long-term ramifications. These penalties can include prison or jail time, expensive fines and court costs, and the suspension of your driving privilege (even if a vehicle was not involved in the case).

The Florida Legislature has passed some of the toughest drug laws in the country. In many instances, these laws were reactionary measures designed to arm the police and prosecutors with weapons to “fight the war on drugs.” Throughout the years, Florida politicians have enhanced penalties as the means to deal with the various drug issues affecting the State. In the early 1980’s, it was powder cocaine, in the late 1980’s and 1990’s crack. By the early 2000’s the State was gripped by an opioid epidemic fueled by “pill mills,” “doctor shopping,” and the over-prescribing of pain medication. Most recently, the Florida Legislature has attempted to clamp down on synthetic marijuana (“Spice”), and a resurgence of heroin laced with fentanyl.

There are many important distinctions in the law governing drugs / narcotics / controlled substance charges in Florida. You need the advice of an experienced and knowledgeable drug charges attorney who can evaluate how the law applies to the unique set of facts in your case. Call our office today at (727) 578-0303 for a free initial consultation. Together we can discuss all of your options and decide on the best course of action.

Types of Criminal Drug Charges in Florida

• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Xanax, etc.)
• Possession of an Illegal Drug (Cocaine, Marijuana, Heroin, LSD, etc.)
• Sale of a Controlled Substance
• Sale of an Illegal Drug
• Drug Trafficking
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The mere possession of most illegal drugs is classified as a third degree felony, no matter how small the amount. Sale or distribution of a controlled substance or illegal drug is treated as a second degree felony. Drug trafficking charges carry mandatory state prison and can be brought simply based on the quantity possessed, despite the lack of any evidence that sale or distribution was ever intended. However, you should know that if you have been arrested or charged with one or more of these offenses, there are still legal defenses and options available to you.

The Answers You Need for the Decisions that Matter

As former state prosecutors and experienced criminal defense attorneys, our law firm can help. We have designed this website to answer some of your immediate questions and concerns, as well as to provide you with an understanding of the law that may affect your situation. You will find detailed information about our strategies, methods, and how we can help.

It is our goal to avoid conviction whenever possible, to obtain treatment instead of incarceration, and to aggressively and creatively defend your case. We care about our clients and make every effort to ensure that you understand the process, your options, and your rights. We will guide you through a difficult, unfamiliar, and stressful time and seek the best possible outcome. If you have been arrested for a drug charge in Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Florida, call our office at (727) 578-0303 for a free consultation.