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What are Florida Drug Charges and Penalties?
In Florida, drug possession and related charges are taken very seriously. If you are arrested for drug possession or other drug charges it is important to understand the possible penalties that you are facing if found guilty. Conviction of a crime can cause a tarnished reputation and can create difficulties both at work and at home. It is extremely important to aggressively defend against drug charges. It is essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an arrest. Your attorney will learn as much as possible about what happened to cause your arrest and will immediately begin to develop a defense.
There are several charges that you may face depending on type of drugs, the amount of drugs, and whether you have paraphernalia.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Drug paraphernalia Possession
- Possession with Intent to Sell
- Possession with Intent to Distribute
- Drug Manufacturing
- Drug Trafficking
- Drug Related DUI
- Prescription Drugs Charges
Possession of a small amount of drugs is considered for your personal use while a larger quantity of drugs will bring harsher charges and penalties. In general, possession of a small amount of drugs carries less severe penalties than if you possess large quantities or are found to be selling drugs. Possession of 20 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Possession Charges
In Florida, possession of a small amount of drugs, such as marijuana, is considered for personal use. If you are found to possess a larger quantity of drugs or equipment to make or sell drugs, different penalties apply. Personal possession is considered less than 20 grams of marijuana while possession of more than 20 grams is a felony. Minor possession charges are typically considered misdemeanors while possession of large quantities of drugs may be trafficking and therefore may be felonies. The penalties for a misdemeanor are less severe than penalties for a felony. There are other circumstances of your drug arrest that can turn it into a felony, such as if you are found with drugs within a close proximity to a school.
- Misdemeanor, Second Degree – Jail sentence up to 60 days, fine up to $500.
- Misdemeanor, First Degree – Jail sentence up to one year, fines up to $1,000.
- Felony, Third Degree – Prison sentence up to five years, fines not to exceed $5,000.
- Felony, Second Degree – Prison sentence up to 15 years, fines up to $10,000.
- Felony First Degree – Prison sentence up to 30 years, fines up to $10,000.
- Life Felony – Up to 30 years in prison, up to $15,000 fines.
Help from an Experienced Attorney
In many cases the charges against you may be inflated. An experienced attorney will work to determine that the charges are correct and may be able to reduce the charges. Your attorney will help you fight for your rights and will review your case to prepare the best possible defense. If this is your first drug arrest you may be unaware of what to expect throughout the process. Drug charges must be taken seriously and defended vigorously to protect against harsh penalties if convicted.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
