Duval County Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyers
Facing State or Federal Drug Trafficking Charges in Duval County, FL?
Drug trafficking is the sale, transport, or import of illegal drugs. It is a felony offense that is aggressively prosecuted in Florida. Not only can you face serious state charges, but you may also be prosecuted in federal court.
At First Coast Criminal Defense, we are dedicated to providing strong legal representation to individuals facing drug trafficking charges in Duval County. Our team of skilled attorneys has a comprehensive understanding of Florida drug laws and can help you build a solid defense strategy to fight the charges against you.
Call (904) 474-3115 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with a Duval County drug trafficking defense lawyer.
What is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking refers to the illegal trade and transportation of controlled substances, such as illegal drugs, across state or national borders. In the context of Florida, drug trafficking involves the distribution and movement of illicit drugs within the state. Florida, like other states, has laws and regulations in place to combat drug trafficking activities.
The Florida Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act classifies various drugs into different schedules, with Schedule I drugs being the most serious. Trafficking charges typically apply when an individual is found to be in possession of a certain quantity of controlled substances.
Commonly trafficked drugs in Florida include:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy
- Prescription drugs
Drug trafficking charges can be brought at the state or federal level. Federal drug trafficking charges are typically more severe and carry harsher penalties than state charges.
Drug Trafficking Penalties
In Florida, the penalties for drug trafficking are determined by the type and quantity of controlled substances involved. The severity of the penalties increases based on the Schedule of the controlled substance and the amount in possession. The Florida Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act classifies drugs into different schedules, with Schedule I drugs being the most serious.
Here is a general overview of the penalties for drug trafficking in Florida:
- Cocaine Trafficking:
- 28 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
- 200 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 7 years in prison and a fine of $100,000.
- 400 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
- 150 kilograms or more: Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
- Heroin Trafficking:
- 4 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
- 14 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a fine of $100,000.
- 28 grams or more: Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
- Marijuana Trafficking:
- 25 pounds or more or 300 or more plants: Mandatory minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of $25,000.
- 2,000 pounds or more or 2,000 or more plants: Mandatory minimum of 7 years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
- 10,000 pounds or more or 10,000 or more plants: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a fine of $200,000.
- 25,000 pounds or more or 25,000 or more plants: Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
- Methamphetamine Trafficking:
- 14 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 3 years in prison and a fine of $50,000.
- 28 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 7 years in prison and a fine of $100,000.
- 200 grams or more: Mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.
- 400 grams or more: Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
Drug Trafficking Defenses
Several defenses can be used to fight drug trafficking charges. The best defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of the case.
Common defenses to drug trafficking charges include:
- Illegal search and seizure
- Crime lab analysis
- Constructive possession
- Entrapment
- Insufficient evidence
- Violation of the chain of custody
- Violation of the defendant’s Miranda rights
Our skilled attorneys can review the details of your case and determine the best defense strategy to fight the charges against you. We will conduct a thorough investigation, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build a solid defense on your behalf.
Why Choose Our Firm?
At First Coast Criminal Defense, we are committed to providing strong legal representation to individuals facing drug trafficking charges in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. We understand the serious consequences of a drug trafficking conviction and will fight aggressively to protect your rights.
When you choose us to handle your drug trafficking case, you can expect:
- Personalized attention: We are a small firm that is dedicated to providing personalized legal services to each and every client. When you choose us to handle your drug trafficking case, you can expect to receive the one-on-one attention that you deserve.
- Aggressive representation: We are not afraid to take on tough cases and will fight aggressively to protect your rights. Our skilled attorneys have extensive experience handling drug trafficking cases and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
- Strong communication: We understand that being charged with drug trafficking can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and will keep you informed every step of the way.
Contact us today at (904) 474-3115 to let us fight for you from start to finish.
