About Drug Crimes

Have you been charged with a drug crime?

When facing accusations related to drug offenses, it is important that you act quickly and retain the services of a skilled Tampa criminal defense lawyer. Our state has very severe penalties for drug offenses and you can be certain that the prosecutor in the case will be seeking to convict you. They have enough evidence that they feel that can; you need an attorney that will fight for your side. Our legal team is exceptionally qualified to defend you in court. We are former prosecutors and have a thorough understanding and insight into the workings of the criminal system with regard to drug crime cases.

Knowing both sides allows the attorney fighting for you to operate within the system capably and make the right moves. The first step is to thoroughly analyze every aspect of the evidence that has been obtained against you. There are an astonishing number of errors in police procedure, including failure to have "probable cause" in the police stop, or overstepping the bounds in a searching you or your premises without a warrant. It is vital that you have a dedicated attorney fighting every aspect of the prosecutor's case against you, and our legal team is prepared to aggressively challenge any point of evidence that is flawed or was illegally gained.

Types of Drug Crimes

Drug crime is an umbrella term that can refer to a number of moderate and serious offenses. In Florida, drug crimes include cultivation, manufacturing, possession, trafficking, transportation, distribution and other offenses. Drug possession is, generally speaking, considered a lesser offense than trafficking, manufacturing or distribution. In Florida, you can be convicted of drug possession while possessing 20 grams or less of an illegal substance. Under Florida code § 893.13, it is illegal to be in actual possession of any controlled substance listed in Florida code § 893.03.

In this section, marijuana (cannabis) is listed as an illegal substance, along with a variety of other illegal drugs. Drug sales and trafficking are usually considered more offensive and subject to harsher penalties. On the most basic level, drug manufacturing, trafficking and cultivation involve larger quantities of drugs. You may also be charged with possession for sale – the criminal act of possessing an illegal substance with the intention of selling it to someone else. If you have been charged with a drug-related offense, we urge you to speak with an attorney from our firm today.

Taracks Gomez & Rickman

Even a minor marijuana charge can cause serious difficulties for you if convicted; your criminal record can affect your future employment and reputation. If you are arrested again in the future, you will be considered a "repeat offender" and may face more severe penalties. Any drug offense is dangerous and your actions immediately after the arrest are crucial. Contacting our firm and getting legal counsel to protect your rights can significantly increase the possibility of a favorable outcome in your case, whether a dismissed charge, reduced charge, not guilty verdict or alternative sentencing. It is vital that you do not answer any questions until your attorney arrives to ensure your rights are protected.