Florida Drug Charges And Penalties

In Florida, illegal drugs or controlled dangerous substances (CDS) are classified into 5 different schedules based on their medical value and/or likelihood of abuse. Those schedules are:

The severity of penalties for drug possession depends entirely on the amount of drugs found in a person’s possession. Charges and penalties include:

In certain circumstances, depending on the amount of drugs, persons can be charged with drug trafficking, based solely on the quantity of drugs, not on what actions were taken with the drugs. If you have a trafficking amount of drugs in your pocket, you are still presumed to ‘be’ trafficking, even though you are not actively distributing the drugs. This is much more severe and is the intentional sale, purchase, manufacture, delivery, possession, or transportation of a controlled substance in excess of certain statutory limits. The weight limits vary depending on the CDS in question. Drug trafficking charges carry significant penalties that increase with the amount of the illegal drug found in a person’s possession.

Common illegal drugs and the minimum weight limit for trafficking charges are as follows:

Depending on the drug in question, sentences range from a minimum of 3 years in prison and/ or a fine of $50,000 to life in prison without parole. Even if you aren’t selling the drugs, possession of a CDS that is more than the statutory limit could lead to drug trafficking charges.

Florida drug laws are complicated and the consequences of a possession or trafficking conviction can be severe. If you’ve been charged with a drug-related crime or you think you may be under investigation, the experienced criminal defense attorneys at O’Mara Law Group are here to help. Call us today at (407) 898-5151 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.

RECENT ENTRIES

Desk with divorce documents, gavel, and wedding rings

How Long Does Alimony Last in Florida?

Divorce has a significant financial impact on both spouses. In Florida, alimony can be granted to a spouse who needs financial support during or after …

Learn More →
Alcohol and car keys

How Much Does a DUI Cost in Florida?

A Florida DUI carries high short-term and long-term costs that go well beyond the hefty fines and DUI fees assessed by the court. A DUI …

Learn More →
United States Constitution

Good Faith Exception to the Exclusionary Rule

Evidence obtained through an unreasonable search and seizure violates the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and is typically inadmissible in court. The good faith …

Learn More →

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS
Schedule a Consultation Today

PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS
Schedule a Consultation Today