Tampa Drug Crime Defense Attorney
Over 20 Years of Legal Experience
Florida has some of the harshest penalties for drug offenders, including mandatory minimums for many drug crimes. Even carrying medication like hydrocodone without proof of a valid prescription could lead to charges that might result in a minimum three-year sentence.
In Florida, drug crimes include possession, cultivation, manufacturing, trafficking, and distribution of controlled substances (drugs, chemicals, or precursors) classified as having a potential for abuse or addiction:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Fentanyl
- PCP
- Ecstasy
- Heroin
- LSD
- Meth
- Opiates
- Prescription medications
Facing drug crime charges in Tampa or anywhere in Florida? Schedule a free consultation. We're here 24/7 to help.
Examples of Drug Crimes in Florida
In Florida, drug crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the facts of the case. The type of controlled substance, the amount involved, and the type of offense itself may all influence the severity of the charges.
The following are examples of drug crimes under Florida law:
- Possession: The penalties for drug possession vary depending on the amount and the type of controlled substance involved. Less than 20 grams of marijuana is a first-degree misdemeanor, for example, punishable by a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Possession with Intent: Should the defendant have a higher amount of a drug in their possession and/or paraphernalia, law enforcement may deem they were in possession of the drugs with the intent to sell or distribute it.
- Cultivation: Cultivation is the growing of illegal drugs and controlled substances, such as marijuana. It is considered a criminal act of cultivation to have a "grow house" where marijuana is produced. This is known legally as the "manufacture of cannabis" and is a third-degree felony.
- Manufacturing: Similar to cultivation, manufacturing refers to the illegal production of drugs; however, this is done through heat and chemicals. Producing cocaine or having a meth lab would be considered manufacturing drugs.
- Trafficking: Trafficking is the selling, purchasing, manufacturing, and delivering of drugs. This could be local, across state lines, or internationally. Penalties are severe and may range from hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines to a lengthy state or federal prison sentence.
In recent years, Florida has become increasingly harsh with both drug crime laws and penalties. Any person who is convicted of a drug crime can expect to spend time in jail, pay substantial fines, and attend mandatory drug and alcohol treatment. Due to the severity of the legal consequences involved, it is always advisable that you seek the services of a knowledgeable Tampa drug crime defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Drug Charges in Tampa
Drug-related crimes involving controlled substances named under Section 893.03 of the Florida Statutes may be charged as felonies of the second or third degree or misdemeanors of the first degree. The type of drug, amount, and act will all influence potential penalties.
Under Section 893.13, if a person sells, manufactures, delivers, or possesses with the intent to sell certain controlled substances listed in Sec. 893.03, this is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Generally speaking, the above prohibited acts can lead to third-degree or second-degree felony charges or first-degree misdemeanor charges, depending on the type of drug involved.
Schedule V Misdemeanor Drug Charges
Schedule V drugs under Sec. 893.03(5) are substances, compounds, mixtures, or preparations that have a “low potential for abuse” and accepted medical uses.
Controlled substances listed in Sec. 893.03(5) include:
- Codeine
- Dihydrocodeine
- Ethylmporphine
- Diphenoxylate
- Opium
- Difenoxin
- Ezogabine
- Lacosamide
- Pregabalin
- Stimulants
Offenses involving these substances may be charged as misdemeanors, depending on the amount involved and the alleged act itself. If charged as first-degree misdemeanors, these drug crimes are punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine in Florida.
Results-Driven Drug Crime Defense
At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, we are driven to secure the best possible outcome for every client we represent. In the face of drug charges, which often involve complex issues related to the collection and handling of drug evidence, searches of persons or vehicles, and probable cause, results-driven counsel is all the more important.
Find out for yourself how Tampa drug crime lawyer Jeff Paulk has defended clients in the face of a wide range of charges, and what they have to say about it.
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“The BEST attorney in Hillsborough County!”
“I was arrested and charged with a felony. Mr. Paulk had the charges reduced to a misdemeanor during bond court and eventually dismissed altogether...note, I did not say charges were dropped, case dismissed!”- Avvo Reviewer -
“Jeff Paulk was very professional, serious and made me comfortable with him by my side.”
“When I was arrested for the first time in my life of 50 years, I was simply helpless and frightened. Jeff Paulk was very professional, serious and didn't mind answering all my questions.”- Google Reviewer -
“Jeff is very easy to talk to and he will do whatever he can to get you taken care of.”
“I couldn't be happier with the outcome that Jeff Paulk has done for me. I was charged with DUI with priors and got it dropped to a reckless with minimum penalties. I have hired Jeff in the past and had no hesitation in hiring him again.”- Jim Jaggers -
“I couldn't be happier with Jeff Paulk!”
“I couldn't be happier with this law firm. I had Jeff Paulk and he was great. Got my bond reduced so I could be home with my family. I have more to go, but have great confidence in them. Compassionate and a real go getter!”- D.S.
Our Tampa Drug Crime Firm Can Fight for You
Because drug crimes are such serious offenses, the most important step you can take is to seek counsel from a skilled Tampa drug crime attorney. When you reach out to The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, you can rest assured that we have the experience and ability to help.
We offer:
- More than 20 years of legal experience
- A background in prosecuting criminal charges
- Knowledge and insight from 1000s of cases and 100s of trials
- Dedicated, one-on-one support for each and every client
- Aggressive advocacy and powerful defense strategies
- Tailored counsel based on the facts of your case and the law
In his 20+ years of experience, Attorney Jeff Paulk has obtained results that have earned him attention from peers and media outlets on both the local and national levels. An aggressive litigator, he knows what it takes to defend clients against drug crime accusations.
When we take your case, you can trust that we will do everything possible to see that your freedom and future are protected.
If you are facing drug charges in Tampa, Hillsborough County, or anywhere in Florida, we can help. We can answer your questions and get you started on the path toward a brighter future. Reach out to our Tampa drug crime lawyer now to discuss your legal rights and options during a completely free and confidential consultation.