Florida Drug Trafficking Penalties

Summary

In Florida, possessing 56 grams of methamphetamine is considered drug trafficking, carrying a minimum mandatory sentence of 7 years and fines up to $100,000. Enhanced penalties apply if the offense occurs near schools or minors. Its crucial to work closely with your public defender to explore defense strategies, such as challenging the evidence, questioning the chain of custody, disproving intent, or claiming entrapment. If youve been detained for over a year without trial, your right to a speedy trial may be violated. Discuss this with your public defender to potentially file a motion to dismiss. Consider rehabilitation programs or alternative sentencing options as part of your defense strategy.

Full Conversation

Meth * grams
In Florida, possessing * grams of methamphetamine qualifies as drug trafficking, which carries severe penalties:
- Minimum mandatory sentence: 7 years in prison.
- Fines: Up to $*,*.
- Enhanced penalties if near schools or minors.
Where in Florida are you facing this charge? This could help in providing more specific information about local legal resources.
Polk county
Drug trafficking charges in Florida are severe, especially with * grams of methamphetamine. Here are some general points:
- Minimum mandatory sentence: 7 years in prison.
- Fines: Up to $*,*.
- Enhanced penalties: If near schools or minors.

Polk County Courthouse


Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * N Broadway Ave, Bartow, FL *
Website: www.polkcountyclerk.net

Have you already consulted with a lawyer about this case?
Public defender
It's good that you have a public defender, as drug trafficking charges are quite serious. It's important to communicate openly with your defender and provide all necessary details for your defense. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your case, feel free to ask!
How can I beat the case
To potentially beat a drug trafficking charge, consider these strategies:
- Challenge the Evidence: Ensure the evidence against you was lawfully obtained. Any illegal search or seizure could render it inadmissible.
- Question the Chain of Custody: Any gaps or inconsistencies in how the evidence was handled could weaken the prosecution's case.
- Disprove Intent: Prove that you did not intend to distribute the drugs, which might reduce the charge to simple possession.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced you into committing the crime you wouldn't have otherwise committed, this could be a defense.
- Plea Bargain: Negotiate for reduced charges or a lighter sentence.
Have you discussed these potential defenses with your public defender?
I don't want to go prison
I understand your concern. It's crucial to discuss all possible defenses thoroughly with your public defender and explore every legal option available.
~Polk County Courthouse
Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * N Broadway Ave, Bartow, FL *
Website: www.polkcountyclerk.net
Have you considered any rehabilitation programs or alternative sentencing options?
I've been locked up in county over a year and haven't went to court yet
It seems like your right to a speedy trial may be in question here. In Florida, defendants are generally entitled to a trial within:
- 175 days for felonies.
- 90 days for misdemeanors.

Consult with your public defender urgently about filing a motion to dismiss based on this violation.
Have you discussed the possibility of a speedy trial violation with your public defender?