Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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.
