Drug Trafficking

Seasoned Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Standing Up for the Rights of Those Charged with Felony Drug Crimes

Drug trafficking is one of the most serious drug charges, and state and federal law enforcement agencies work hard to prosecute these cases. While many drug trafficking cases are prosecuted in federal court, state prosecutors also bring these charges. If you’re facing these serious charges, it’s essential that you have an experienced Broward County drug trafficking lawyer by your side at every step of the process. At Lowry Legal, we have decades of experience aggressively fighting on behalf of clients charged with drug felonies, including distribution of narcotics and drug trafficking, and we’re ready to meet with you to discuss your case today.

What Constitutes Drug Trafficking Under Florida Law?

Under Florida law, drug trafficking involves the sale, purchase, manufacture, delivery, or possession of illegal drugs above a certain quantity. Trafficking charges are based on the weight of the drugs, with thresholds varying depending on the substance. For instance:

• Cannabis: Possessing 25 pounds or more, or 300 or more cannabis plants, qualifies as trafficking.
• Cocaine: Possessing 28 grams or more of cocaine qualifies as trafficking.
• Heroin and Fentanyl: Possessing just four grams or more of heroin or fentanyl can result in trafficking charges.

Drug trafficking charges apply regardless of whether an individual is directly involved in selling drugs; merely possessing these quantities with the intent to distribute can be enough to trigger trafficking charges. Additionally, drug trafficking often involves mandatory minimum sentences, meaning a conviction can lead to significant prison time.

Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Florida

The penalties for drug trafficking in Florida are severe and depend on the type and amount of drugs involved.

• Drug Trafficking: Florida imposes harsh mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking convictions. For example, trafficking 28 to 200 grams of cocaine carries a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in prison, while higher quantities can result in up to 15 years or more. Fines can also reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. These penalties increase with larger quantities of drugs or prior convictions.
• Armed Drug Trafficking: When a firearm is involved in a drug trafficking case, the penalties increase significantly. Armed drug trafficking is considered a first-degree felony and can carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison if a firearm was in possession during the crime. The presence of a firearm can also lead to federal charges, which may involve even harsher penalties.

In both state and federal courts, drug trafficking penalties are among the toughest in the criminal justice system. A conviction can lead to long prison terms, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record, making it crucial to fight these charges on all fronts.

What the Government Needs to Prove in a Drug Trafficking Case

To secure a drug trafficking conviction, the prosecution must prove certain elements beyond a reasonable doubt, including:

• Possession or Control of the Drugs: The prosecution must show that you had control over the drugs, whether that was directly or constructively. This could mean having drugs on your person or in a location you control, like a home or vehicle.
• Knowledge of the Substance’s Presence and Illegality: The government must also prove that you knew about the presence of the drugs and were aware that the substances were illegal. For instance, if someone unknowingly transported a bag that contained drugs, they may have a viable defense against trafficking charges.
• Quantity of the Drugs: The quantity of drugs must meet the statutory threshold for trafficking. If the amount is below this threshold, the charge may be reduced to simple possession or another lesser offense.
• Intent to Distribute: In some cases, the government must prove that the drugs were intended for distribution rather than personal use. Evidence of distribution may include large quantities of cash, packaging materials, or scales found alongside the drugs.

Ensure You Have an Aggressive Defense for Drug Trafficking Charges in State or Federal Court

Drug trafficking charges are serious, and a conviction can lead to life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges, you need a Broward County drug trafficking lawyer who can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case. At Lowry Legal, we are committed to aggressively defending your case, whether it’s in state or federal court. Our team understands the high stakes in these cases, and we are ready to stand by your side, examine the details of your case, and build a defense tailored to your situation. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call Lowry Legal at 954-908-6222 or connect with us through our secure online contact form. We proudly serve clients throughout Broward County including Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lauderdale Lakes, Lauderhill, Lighthouse Point, Miramar, North Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, Pompano Beach, and Sunrise.