Florida has some of the harshest penalties for drug crimes in the country. Possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana a misdemeanor carries a sentence of up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 fine. Drug crimes are broken down into four major areas:
According to Florida statutes, charges related to use and possession of under 20 grams of marijuana are misdemeanors and carry lesser penalties, although multiple offenses can result in cumulative sentences and fines. Charges involving illegal possession of most drugs, including the manufacturing or distribution of drugs are felony crimes. These typically are much more complex, can involve federal charges in addition to charges filed by the state and often have very stiff penalties attached. Regardless of the type of drug crime, lawyers in Broward County, including the cities of Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines and other areas, can assist the accused in building a strong defense, potentially avoiding devastating consequences.
In Florida, penalties for drug crimes are highly varied crimes involving certain drugs or drug types can carry much stiffer penalties and additional charges can make punishments more severe. Facing such penalties is difficult to endure for the accused and his or her family. If you or a loved one in Broward County is facing charges for drug related offenses, you should immediately contact experienced Broward drug crimes attorneys to receive the guidance and assistance you need. Please keep in mind that no lawyer can guarantee the results of a criminal case, as it is a violation of the rules of the Florida Bar Association.
State and County Drug Crime Statistics 2009 (1, 2)
There were more than 146,000 arrests for drug offenses across Florida. Broward County reported 16,750 drug-related arrests in 2009. The cities with the highest numbers:
Fort Lauderdale – 2,305
Deerfield Beach – 1,836
Hollywood – 1,675
Pembroke Pines – 1,560
Pompano Beach – 1,225
The type of drug involved can also make a significant difference in how a drug crimes case is processed and defended. Marijuana is the most common substance involved in drug crimes and usually have the lightest penalties attached to them (depending on other factors). Illicit prescription medications involved in fraud and hard drugs like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine carry much stiffer penalties across the board. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Broward County for a drug crime, a Broward County Drug Lawyer in our office can provide qualified legal assistance to defend your case and help you protect your rights.
Hassett & Associates, P.A. represents those charged with drug crimes in Broward County and its major cities and areas, including Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood and Pembroke Pines.
1. Annual Crime in Florida Report, January – December 2009
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Content/getdoc/563b1fa3-3c7b-4787-ac6d-96c8fea73dcd/CIF_Annual09.aspx
2. County and Municipal Arrest Data, January – December 2009
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Content/getdoc/95a6e7b0-b130-4b6f-9095-95574cc5f93d/CoMuArr2009annual.aspx