Florida has some of the toughest drug laws and an arrest on Florida drug distribution charges is a serious matter. An experienced Broward criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the criminal charges you face and help defend your rights.
How Florida Drug Distribution Charges Work
You can be arrested on Florida drug distribution charges if you’re found to be in possession of either the illegal substance itself or the components used to make illegal substances. There’s a gray area when it comes to intent to manufacture, distribute, and the actual act.
In many cases, a Broward criminal defense lawyer can help you fight your case if you were legally allowed to possess the items for which you were arrested.
Also, the police must prove that you intended to, or did, distribute the illegal substances found in your possession. If the search of your person and/or property isn’t properly conducted then this is a potential violation of your rights and can be a critical piece of evidence for your Broward criminal defense lawyer.
Penalties for Florida Drug Distribution Charges
Some Florida drug distribution charges can be simple misdemeanors while other more serious offenses can carry penalties up to 1st degree felony charges.
Certain classes of drugs as defined in the Florida statutes bring about harsher penalties due to their more dangerous nature. Even the simple chemicals used in drug manufacturing are classified in the statutes under various penalties.
Your proximity to certain types of businesses or public areas is also a factor in determining the sentence you face for Florida drug distribution.
If you’re within 1,000 feet of a:
- school;
- child care facility;
- community center;
- park; or
- other public recreational facility then you may face additional charges.
Fighting Florida Drug Distribution Charges
Your sentence depends largely on your defense against the criminal charges for Florida drug distribution. An experienced Broward criminal defense lawyer can help you review the charges you face and help you determine a defense strategy against these claims.
Remember that you don’t necessarily have to submit to search and seizure of your person or property unless the police have a warrant. In many cases, a Florida drug distribution charge can be avoided if there’s evidence that you were unlawfully searched.
You also have the right to an attorney. A local Broward criminal defense lawyer will know the ins and outs of Florida drug distribution laws and be able to determine a proper defense for your case.