The legislature sets the penalties for criminal offenses and certain drug crimes in Florida. While most crimes permit judges to exercise discretion when it comes to sentencing, all drug trafficking crimes in Florida come with mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment. In Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, trafficking cases are normally handled by experienced prosecutors who will seek to impose mandatory prison time upon anybody charged.
Trafficking is based on weight in the State of Florida, and if you are accused of being in possession of a certain amount of a controlled substance, you may find yourself charged with drug trafficking regardless of your intention. That means that whether the drugs are for sale or for personal use, as long as you are in possession of the requisite amount, you may find yourself charged with drug trafficking and facing imprisonment.
A mandatory minimum prison sentence means that the judge cannot, under any circumstances, exercise discretion and sentence you to probation or county jail time. Mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking crimes range from 3 years to 25 years. Trafficking in any substance is a first-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Only the prosecutor is authorized to waive a mandatory minimum sentence. Each county handles waivers of mandatory minimum sentences differently. In moments like these, it takes an experienced and knowledgeable South Florida criminal defense lawyer to handle a drug trafficking case in specific districts.
While each case is different and no criminal lawyer can guarantee results based on past experiences, Attorney Eric Matheny has successfully negotiated waivers of mandatory minimum trafficking sentences for clients in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and will fight to do the same for you. Contact our South Florida drug crime attorney today to find out how we can defend you against such serious charges.
For a free case evaluation, call (888) 900-0365.
With an insider’s perspective on how the justice system works, our lawyer case assess the strengths and weaknesses of a case which gives him the ability to make wise, informed decisions on how to proceed, no matter what you are facing. Attorney Matheny has handled over 50 jury and non-jury trials and proudly serves the accused and arrested in Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and Palm Beach County.
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