What Are Common Types of Drug Crimes in Florida?

Florida is known for its harsh drug crime punishments. Depending on the conviction, you can be looking at multiple years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Drug crimes range in severity based on the amount of illegal substances on your person and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. No matter the crime, it is vital you have a criminal defense attorney on your side ready to help.

Fighter Law has a deep understanding of drug laws in Florida and will fight for you and your future with compassion and meticulous understanding. Our board-certified lawyers will use our experience and resources to build up a realistic and aggressive defense to protect your future in the best way possible. 

5 Common Types of Drug Crimes in Florida

The state of Florida has a wide variety of drug crimes, most of which are directly influenced by the type of illegal substance, the amount of illegal substance, whether or not the substance is directly on your person, and where you are arrested. To get a better understanding of the available charges and their repercussions, five common types of drug crimes include the following:

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking is the illegal transportation of illegal substances. This can include, but is not limited, to:

• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Marijuana
• Ecstasy 
• Crystal meth
• Xanax

Trafficking can happen on an intrastate, interstate, or international level, all of which come with severe consequences and legal repercussions. Sentencing requirements for drug tracking vary, but normally come with a three-year minimum. 

Drug Distribution

The distribution of drugs can either fall under drug trafficking or drug distribution. Distribution is determined by the movement of the drugs, while trafficking is determined by the weight. If you are caught carrying drugs and the officer can deduce the intent to sell or distribute, you will be charged with drug distribution charges. 

Distribution commonly gets charged as a first-degree felony. Illegal drugs are classified according to the risk of abuse, and the higher risk of abuse, the higher the charge. 

Drug Possession

Drug possession is normally not as stiff of a charge as drug distribution. If you are caught with drugs on your person for any reason, you may be charged with drug possession. As with any potential drug crime, the range of severity depends on the risk of abuse of the substance. 

Charges can range from a misdemeanor to a first-degree felony. 

Drug Cultivation 

If you currently grow and produce any form of illegal substance, this is considered drug cultivation. Even if you do not distribute the drugs yourself, the cultivation process is illegal and can result in serious charges. Any process that results in the selling of merchandise or products to people who are planning on selling or distributing illegal substances can result in a third-degree felony in Florida, accompanied by five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Prescription Drug Abuse 

Even if you have been prescribed a legal medicine by your doctor, failing to stick within the provided guidelines can bring about a prescription drug abuse charge. Taking more than you have been legally prescribed, or taking medicine meant for someone else, is considered inappropriate and illegal. 

Opioids are currently the most common drug to be inappropriately used and result in substance abuse disorders. 

Currently Facing a Drug Crime Charge in Florida? Fighter Law Can Help

Facing a drug crime or watching a family member struggle with substance abuse can be a tricky situation to navigate. Drug crimes are very serious and will impact your future in a multitude of ways, including your opportunity to secure employment, adopt children, travel, and more. Fighter Law will immediately get to work building up your defense and fighting for the protection of your future. 

To begin the process today, schedule a consultation through our online contact form or by calling (407) 344-4837. We will immediately begin advocating for you and your rights, and will fight for the best possible outcome for your case.

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