Drug trafficking is taken seriously in Florida. Therefore, the penalties associated with this crime if you are found guilty are no less than life changing. From prison time to fines and much more, you could be facing a drastic life change if a judge and jury convicts you. In fact, not only will you have a permanent criminal record, but your relationships and career will be negatively affected. Here’s what you should know about Florida’s drug trafficking statutes and also how to get the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Florida Drug Trafficking Statutes by Substance

Florida penalizes drug trafficking according to the substance being trafficked.

Cocaine

28-200 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
200-400 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
400 grams – 150 kilograms — $250,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment
150+ kilograms — Life imprisonment without the option of parole

Heroin

4-14 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
14-28 grams — $100,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment
28 grams – 30 kilograms — $500,000 fine and 25 years imprisonment

Hydrocodone

14-28 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
29-49 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
50-200 grams — $500,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment
200 grams – 30 kilograms — $750,000 fine and 25 years imprisonment

Oxycodone

7-14 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
14-25 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
15-100 grams — $500,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment
100 grams – 30 kilograms — $750,000 fine and 25 years imprisonment

Methamphetamine

14-28 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
28-200 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
200+ grams — $250,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment

LSD

1-5 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
5-7 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
7+ grams — $500,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment

Ecstasy

10-200 grams — $50,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment
200-400 grams — $100,000 fine and 7 years imprisonment
400+ grams — $250,000 fine and 15 years imprisonment

Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges

If you’re facing drug trafficking charges, there are a few different defenses to use. In fact, your lawyer will help you determine which one is most likely to be successful in your case depending on the circumstances, facts, and evidence in your case. For example, you could argue actual innocence if the drugs are planted by someone else on you or your property. Or, you may be able to argue that the police illegally searched you. Illegal search and seizure is a very viable defense. It may keep the actual substances out of court evidence, making it harder for the prosecution to make a case against you.

Contact Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyer Leah Mayersohn, Esq. Today

Don’t let drug trafficking charges ruin your life. Get help from an experienced drug trafficking attorney today to defend yourself and protect your rights under Florida law. Call now for a consultation at 954-400-5000.