Drug Charges Attorney in Pensacola, Florida

According to a report from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), in 2018, an estimated 134,396 arrests were made for drug-related offenses statewide. In Florida, drug crimes may include drug possession, manufacturing, sale, delivery, and possession with the intent to deliver a controlled substance. If convicted, the defendant could face severe punishment, including a lengthy prison sentence, substantial fines, and other life-altering ramifications.

If you're under investigation for drug charges or if you have been arrested and charged for a drug crime, it is paramount that you retain a skilled and aggressive Florida criminal defense attorney immediately to help strategize a strong defense. David Lee Sellers is committed to offering comprehensive legal guidance and reliable representation to clients facing drug charges. As your legal counsel, he can review the facts of your situation, carry out a detailed investigation, and determine an effective defense strategy in pursuit of the best possible outcome in your case.

David Lee Sellers, PA, proudly represents clients throughout Pensacola, Florida, and the surrounding communities of Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, and Milton.

Federal Drug Crimes

Both federal and state drug laws prohibit the possession, manufacture, sale, and delivery of controlled substances. However, a drug crime becomes a federal drug offense when:

• The defendant was apprehended while committing the drug crime on federal property

• An undercover federal officer made the arrest

• The drug crime crossed state lines (such as drug trafficking)

• The drug offense is deemed to be serious and requires severe punishment

Drug Charges in Florida

Pursuant to Florida Statutes Section 893.13, "a person may not sell, manufacture, or deliver, or possess with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver, a controlled substance." In the state of Florida, a person may be charged with any of the following drug-related crimes:

Drug Possession

A person found with illicit drugs or controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, and other synthetic drugs may be facing drug possession charges.

Drug Manufacturing

Drug manufacturing involves taking part in various activities that involve preparing, producing, cultivating, or creating a controlled substance. In Florida, drug manufacturing activities include mixing chemicals, cultivating marijuana, cooking methamphetamine, or operating a drug lab. All of these are prohibited in the state.

Drug Distribution, Delivery, or Trafficking

Furthermore, a defendant may be facing drug distribution, delivery, or trafficking charges in Florida if there is considerable evidence that the person was involved in the sale or distribution of controlled substances listed under state laws.

Possessing with the Intent to Sell, Manufacture, or Deliver

A person may be facing "possessing with the intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver" charges if the quantity of the drug found in the offender's possession is considered more than a reasonable amount meant for personal consumption.

Drug Schedules in Florida

The Florida Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act classifies drugs or controlled substances into "schedules." The schedule classifications depend on the level of danger of the drug. These schedule classifications are as follows:

• Schedule I: These drugs have a high potential for abuse and no common medical use. Some examples include heroin, peyote, GHB, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).

• Schedule II: These substances have a high potential for abuse but are severely restricted for medical purposes. Common examples include hydrocodone, opiates, opium, methadone, and Vicodin.

• Schedule III: These are drugs with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I or II drugs and are severely restricted for medical treatment. Examples include anabolic steroids, testosterone, and ketamine.

• Schedule IV: These drugs have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule III drugs and are used for medical treatments. They include Xanax, Valium, benzodiazepines, Klonopin, and other sedatives.

• Schedule V: These substances have the least potential for abuse and are commonly used for medical purposes. Some examples include cough syrups, Lyrica, Parepectolin, Lomotil, and Motofen.

Possible Penalties

If convicted of a drug crime in Florida, the severity of the penalties will depend on the substance schedule, the amount of the drug found in the offender's possession, and the person's criminal history. Possible penalties include:

Possession

• More than 10 grams of Schedule I drug: This is a first-degree felony. Punishable by 30 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

• More than 10 grams of any other CDS: This is a third-degree felony. Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

• Up to 20 grams of marijuana: This is a first-degree misdemeanor. Punishable by up to 1 year in prison and/or a $1,000 fine.

• More than 20 grams of marijuana: This is a third-degree felony. Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Manufacturing

A drug manufacturing conviction in Florida is considered a second-degree felony. The offense is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 15 years in prison.

Selling or Trafficking

Depending on the type of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) in question, possible punishment can range from a fine of up to $50,000, a minimum of 3 years in prison, or life in prison without parole.

Work With a Skilled Attorney

Trying to defend yourself against drug charges without proper guidance or legal representation can possibly increase your risk of getting convicted and receiving the maximum punishment. If convicted, you could face huge fines, lengthy jail time, a criminal record, and other social consequences. Therefore, when facing drug charges, retaining a knowledgeable Florida criminal defense attorney is crucial to help protect your rights and outline your defense strategy.

David Lee Sellers has dedicated his career to providing experienced legal services and handling drug crimes cases. As your legal counsel, he will investigate every detail of your case and explore the possible legal defenses for your situation. Using his extensive knowledge, David will help you navigate the Florida criminal justice system and offer you the reliable and dedicated representation you need. Having him on your side can help increase your chances of getting a favorable outcome in your case and a better tomorrow.