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Drug Distribution Lawyer

While some states are legalizing cannabis and decriminalizing other drugs, Florida still very much penalizes drug possession and drug possession with the intent to distribute. If you were arrested for drug distribution, you are most likely facing a third or second degree felony, both of which carry a penalty of a life-long criminal record and years behind bars, not to mention probation and heavy fines. To fight back against these charges, you need to work with a drug distribution defense lawyer. The criminal defense lawyers at The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. have decades of combined experience, and the proven track record that you are looking for.

What is Drug Distribution?

Drug distribution is knowingly selling, purchasing, manufacturing, delivering, or bringing into the state of Florida a certain quantity of a controlled substance. Drug distribution is similar to trafficking, but involves lower quantities of controlled substances (though a higher amount than the offense of simple possession). If the amount of drugs crosses a certain threshold set by the state of Florida for that particular type of narcotic, the offense gets enhanced from drug distribution to drug trafficking.

Penalties for Drug Distribution

Drug distribution is typically charged as a third degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. For higher amounts of a controlled substance, the offense can be increased to a second degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $15,000. While being arrested for a drug like cannabis that is legal in other states, you need to be aware of the predicament you are in. Make no mistake—drug crimes account for the greatest number of Florida inmates of all types of crimes, and you could end up joining them if you are found guilty or poorly represented.

What Types of Drugs Count as Controlled Substances?

There are dozens of schedules of drugs that are classified as controlled substances. Florida uses a classification system that puts drugs in an alleged order of danger, starting with schedule V being the least harmful to schedule I being the most. Because the dose of a controlled substance varies so much, there is no across-the-board threshold for quantity of drug when it comes to simple possession versus drug distribution versus trafficking. Examples of controlled substances include:

  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • Heroin
  • Methamphetamine
  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycodone
  • Fentanyl
  • Codeine
  • Other opioid derivatives
  • Psilocybin
  • MDMA (Molly or Ecstacy)
  • LSD
  • Peyote

Call a Drug Distribution Lawyer Today

When it comes to defending against drug distribution charges, there are many places to start. For example, did the police conduct an unlawful search and seizure? Were you read the Miranda warning upon being arrested? Were your civil rights violated during interrogation? Were you the victim of entrapment, or were you even aware that you had drugs in your possession? By working with an experienced drug distribution lawyer, you drastically increase your chances of having the charges reduced or outright dismissed. To get started today, call The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. at 813-217-5715 to schedule a free consultation.

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The experience you need in your pursuit of justice

The greatest distinguishing feature among attorneys is their level of experience. Our firm has more than 60 years of legal experience, much of it spent in the courtroom at trial. As a result, our Tampa criminal defense lawyers rarely encounter an unfamiliar situation and can thoroughly answer your urgent questions. Our criminal defense practice features a board certified criminal trial lawyer and two former prosecutors with impressive knowledge of trial tactics and procedures.

The resources to provide quality representation for the length of your case

Whether your case involves a crime or injury, your attorney must be prepared to take the case all the way through trial to verdict. Many defense attorneys advance the cost of litigation, so they can only last so long before financial pressures start to mount. As a client, you have to wonder whether an attorney's advice to settle your case reflects the quality of the offer or their need to get paid. Fortunately, The Matassini Law Firm has the resources to pursue civil verdicts and settlements that reflect the actual value of your case.

Call our Tampa Bay criminal attorneys for a free consultation

A crisis in your life calls for capable and compassionate assistance. The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. addresses your needs all the way through the legal process. For your free initial confidential conference with one of our Tampa criminal defense attorneys, call us today at 813-217-5715 or contact us online.

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