Every drug case raises significant constitutional issues which must be addressed in order to provide the best defense and maximize the potential for the best possible outcome, including issues involving your Fourth and Fifth Amendment rights. A conviction for a drug offense can have serious and permanent ramifications because the Florida Legislature has mandated mandatory minimum prison sentences for many of these crimes. Here are a number of examples:
Trafficking in Hydrocodone, Trafficking in Oxycodone, or Trafficking in Heroin
- 4 grams or more, but less than 14 grams mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 3 years, and a fine of $50,000.
- 14 grams or more, but less than 28 grams mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years, and a fine of $100,000.
- 28 grams or more, but less than 30 kilograms mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 25 calendar years and a fine of $500,000.
Trafficking in Cannabis
- In excess of 25 pounds, but less than 2,000 pounds (or 300-2,000 plants) ? mandatory minimum prison term of 3 years, and a $25,000 fine;
- 2,000 pounds, but less than 10,000 pounds (or 2,000 – 10,000 plants) ? mandatory minimum prison term shall be 7 years, and a $50,000 fine;
- 10,000 pounds or more (or 10,000 or more cannabis plants), ? minimum prison term shall be 15 calendar years, and a fine of $200,000.
Trafficking in Cocaine
- 28 grams to 200 grams ? mandatory minimum term of 3 years prison and a $50,000 fine;
- 200 grams to 400 grams ? mandatory minimum term of 7 years prison and a $100,000 fine;
- 400 grams – 150 kilograms ? mandatory minimum term of 15 years prison and a $250,000 fine;
- In excess of 150 kilograms ? a first degree felony punished by life imprisonment with no eligible for any form of discretionary early release (except pardon or medical).
As you can see, a conviction for a drug offense in Florida is a very serious matter. If you or someone you know has been accused of or is facing prosecution for any type of drug offense, contact Hunter today and let him get started using his experience handling these types of cases in order to maximize your chances for a successful outcome.
