Drug Crimes
Getting arrested for a drug offense in Florida can have serious consequences. Except for possession of
marijuana under twenty grams, most all other offenses are felonies. Many charges carry significant minimum mandatory
prison sentences.
Philpott Law handles the following types of drug offenses:
- Possession
- Possession with intent to sell
- Sale and Delivery
- Manufacturing
- Trafficking
- Conspiracy to Traffick
Penalties for drug crimes range from one year in jail for a misdemeanor and up to a lifetime
prison sentence for the most severe felony charge.
The specific penalties for a drug offense depend on:
- The type of crime - Possession is considered the least serious of drug offenses, with
trafficking and Conspiracy to Traffick being among the most serious. Importantly, a charge of conspiracy to
traffick does not require the actual sale of narcotics, only that you entered into an agreement to purchase or
sell with others.
- The type and kind of drugs involved - Drugs are ranked from Schedule 1 to Schedule 4
depending upon their potential for abuse. A Schedule 4 narcotic has the lowest potential for abuse. Drugs such
as heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl are considered Schedule 1, and are most addictive, while Tylenol would
be considered a Schedule 4 drug.
- Criminal History - If you are charged for the first-time with a drug crime you may be
eligible for an alternative sentence such as drug court or other diversion program. However, if you have
committed multiple offenses then you may face enhanced penalties including minimum mandatory prison sentences.
- Other Factors - If your drug charge also involved the use of a weapon or if committed
in close proximity to a school or playground then you may face enhanced penalties.
Having an attorney who understands the law and any defenses you may have is very important when facing a drug charge
because of the severity of penalties that may be involved. If you are charged with a drug offense call Philpott Law
at 386-873-2884 today to discuss your rights!