Orlando Attorneys Describe the Penalties for Drug Trafficking and Strategies for Reducing Them
Drug trafficking penalties at the federal level are severe, with mandatory minimum sentences that can mean decades behind bars. But Orlando attorneys have experience defending clients facing these charges and working to mitigate penalties.
Federal Trafficking Penalties
The federal trafficking penalties are determined by the type and quantity of drug involved. For example:
- Cocaine: 5-49 grams mixture carries a 5 year mandatory minimum sentence. 500 grams to 5 kilos brings a 10 year mandatory minimum.
- Heroin: 100-999 grams mixture brings a 5 year minimum. 1 kilo or more carries a 10 year mandatory minimum sentence.
- Methamphetamine: 50 grams pure or 500 grams mixture results in a 10 year minimum sentence.
Higher quantities can result in up to life imprisonment for first offenses. Fines up to $10 million for individuals or $50 million for other than individuals may also apply. Penalties are even stiffer for second offenses.
State Trafficking Penalties
Florida drug trafficking thresholds are lower than federal ones in most cases. Trafficking charges can be brought for:
- 14 grams of amphetamine
- 4 grams of morphine
- 28 grams of cocaine
- 30 kilograms of marijuana
Penalties include mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines up to $500,000.
Defense Strategies
Skilled Orlando drug crime lawyers have succeeded in getting charges reduced or dismissed through arguments like:
- Invalid traffic stop: Evidence from the arrest may be suppressed if there was no legal justification for the traffic stop.
- Entrapment: Undercover officers induced the trafficking.
- Improper searches: Evidence obtained without a warrant or consent may be inadmissible.
For defendants facing sentencing, attorneys argue mitigating factors to judges in pursuit of less jail time. Factors like minimal criminal history, family obligations, and expression of remorse may help. Strategies like cooperating with prosecutors against higher-level traffickers are also employed.
While penalties are strict, an experienced drug trafficking lawyer can mount a strong defense against charges or in pursuit of reduced sentencing. Consultation with a local attorney is highly recommended for those facing prosecution.