Pasco County Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer

Drug trafficking charges in Florida are among the most severe criminal accusations an individual can face. Florida’s laws on controlled substances are stringent, and convictions can lead to mandatory minimum prison sentences, substantial fines, and a lifelong criminal record. Athanaselos & Associates, P.A. provides experienced legal representation for individuals charged with drug trafficking in the Tampa Bay Area, defending your rights and crafting a strong legal strategy tailored to your case. Contact our Pasco County drug trafficking lawyer to get started on your case immediately.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida

In Florida, drug trafficking involves the manufacture, sale, purchase, delivery, or possession of controlled substances over a certain weight threshold. These thresholds vary depending on the type of drug. For example:

Cocaine: Trafficking charges apply to quantities of 28 grams (one ounce) or more.
Marijuana: Trafficking involves possession of 25 pounds or more or 300 or more plants.
Heroin: Possession of just four grams or more can lead to trafficking charges.
Prescription Drugs: Oxycodone, hydrocodone, and other prescription narcotics can lead to trafficking charges if the weight exceeds specific amounts.

Drug trafficking is classified as a first-degree felony in Florida, with penalties escalating based on the quantity of drugs involved. These penalties include mandatory minimum sentences starting at three years and fines ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. In some cases, Florida law mandates a minimum of 25 years or even life imprisonment for certain trafficking offenses.

Legal Defenses for Drug Trafficking Charges

At Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., we meticulously analyze the facts of your case to develop an effective defense strategy customized to your specific situation. Common defenses to drug trafficking charges include:

Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights by conducting an illegal search, evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. This can lead to a dismissal of charges when illegally obtained evidence forms the linchpin of the prosecutor’s case.
Lack of Knowledge: The prosecution must prove you knowingly possessed or transported the drugs. If you were unaware of the drugs’ presence, this could be a valid defense.
Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed, the defense of entrapment may apply.
Insufficient Evidence: The state must meet a high burden of proof to secure a conviction, including proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Challenging the credibility of evidence or witness testimony can weaken the prosecution’s case and raise reasonable doubt as to the defendant’s alleged guilt.

How Athanaselos & Associates, P.A. Can Help

When facing drug trafficking charges, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of Florida’s drug laws and has a track record of success in criminal defense cases. At Athanaselos & Associates, P.A., we provide personalized attention, taking the time to understand your unique circumstances and explain your legal options in detail. We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome, whether that means negotiating reduced charges or advocating for you at trial. Through a comprehensive case analysis, we scrutinize every aspect of the evidence, police procedures, and prosecutorial tactics to identify weaknesses in the case against you.

Consequences of a Drug Trafficking Conviction

A conviction for drug trafficking can have life-altering consequences beyond the immediate penalties. These include a loss of civil rights, such as voting and firearm ownership; difficulty finding employment or securing housing, and immigration consequences, including deportation for non-citizens.

By seeking legal representation early, you can protect your future and minimize the impact of these charges on your life.

Contact a Pasco County Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney Today

If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Pasco County, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Athanaselos & Associates, P.A. is committed to providing the skilled and tenacious representation you need to challenge these charges and protect your future. Contact our Pasco County drug trafficking lawyer today at 727-810-8405 for a free consultation and take the first step toward defending your rights.