Miami, FL Drug Crimes Defense Lawyer

Respected Attorney for Criminal Charges Related to Controlled Substances in Miami

Florida has some of the strictest drug laws in the country, and a conviction for a drug-related offense can have severe consequences. Law enforcement agencies will often perform extensive investigations of people who are suspected of drug crimes, and they will prosecute alleged offenders to the fullest extent of the law. Offenses in these cases may range from simple possession to large-scale trafficking operations. If you are facing charges related to controlled substances, it is critical to understand the nature of the offense, the potential penalties, and the legal options available.

The Miami drug crimes lawyer at The Hoffman Firm can help protect your rights and work with you to develop a defense strategy that will help you achieve the best possible outcome to your case. Whether you have been accused of possessing a small amount of a controlled substance or are facing allegations of drug distribution, our attorney can challenge the prosecution's evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or seek a dismissal if possible.

Drug Possession

Possession of a controlled substance is one of the most frequently charged drug offenses in Miami. This charge may apply if a person is accused of having an illegal drug in their possession, either physically (such as in their pocket) or constructively (such as in their vehicle or home).

Penalties for drug possession may vary based on the type and amount of the drug involved. Possession of substances like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine will often lead to third-degree felony charges and a conviction may carry a prison sentence of up to five years and a possible fine as high as $5,000. Possession of up to 20 grams of marijuana is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Our lawyer may be able to challenge a drug possession charge by arguing that evidence was obtained through an unlawful search and seizure, that a person did not have any knowledge of the substance, or that there is insufficient evidence linking the accused to the drugs.

Possession With Intent to Distribute

If law enforcement believes that drugs were not merely for personal use but were intended for distribution, a person may face possession with intent to distribute charges. These charges are often based on factors such as the quantity of drugs, the presence of packaging materials, large amounts of cash, or communications related to drug sales.

Possession with intent is a felony offense that carries harsher penalties than simple possession. For instance, possession of cocaine or heroin with intent to distribute is a second-degree felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of as much as 15 years, as well as a maximum fine of $10,000. A defense strategy may involve questioning the validity of the evidence, proving lack of intent, or challenging the methods used by law enforcement in the investigation.

Drug Manufacturing or Cultivation

Drug manufacturing charges involve the production or cultivation of illegal substances, such as operating a methamphetamine lab or growing marijuana. Manufacturing charges may also be related to equipment or chemicals used to produce drugs.

Depending on the type and quantity of the substance, drug manufacturing may be classified as either a second-degree or third-degree felony. Defenses against these charges may include proving lack of knowledge, addressing unlawful police surveillance or searches, or demonstrating that the substances in question had a legal purpose.

Drug Trafficking

The most serious drug offenses in Florida generally involve the possession, sale, transportation, or distribution of large amounts of controlled substances. Unlike simple possession, trafficking charges are based on the quantity of the drug. For example, drug trafficking charges may apply in cases involving at least 28 grams of cocaine, four grams of heroin, or 14 grams of methamphetamine.

Drug trafficking is typically a first-degree felony offense with a maximum prison sentence of 30 years. However, mandatory minimum sentences will apply depending on the amount of drugs involved in a case, and these sentences may range from three years to life in prison or even the possibility of the death penalty in some cases. The fines are also much higher in these cases, and they can range from $25,000 to $750,000.

A defense against drug trafficking charges may involve challenging the weight measurements of a substance, proving a lack of knowledge, or questioning the legality of an arrest or search.

Drug Paraphernalia

In addition to drug possession or other charges involving controlled substances, a person may be charged with offenses related to drug paraphernalia. Equipment, products, or materials used to manufacture, package, or use illegal drugs can lead to criminal charges. Possession of drug paraphernalia is a first-degree misdemeanor, while selling or distributing drug paraphernalia may lead to third-degree felony charges.

Our defense attorney may argue that the items in question were not used for drug-related purposes or that law enforcement conducted an unlawful search.

Contact Our Miami, Florida Drug Crimes Attorney

If you are facing drug crime charges in Miami, you will need legal help as you determine how to defend against a conviction. Our Miami drug crimes lawyer can assess your case, explore potential defenses, and work to protect your rights. Contact The Hoffman Firm at 305-249-0090 to schedule a free consultation and get the aggressive legal representation you need to mount a successful defense.