How to Find Information on the Penalty for Drug Dealing in Florida
Florida has become one of the major hot spots for drug trafficking, due to its many international ports. Because of this, Florida lawmakers have cracked down on drug dealers, and anyone caught distributing, producing or packaging drugs faces heavy fines and imprisonment.
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Instructions
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Weigh the particulars of your charges. While dealing drugs in Florida is a felony, in certain cases, such as those involving small quantities of marijuana, defendants may be able to get the charges dropped to a misdemeanor.
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Be aware that charges of intent to sell carry mandatory minimum sentences. Anyone caught with drugs over the legal threshold amount will be charged with intent to sell, and the sentence can range from 3 years to life in prison, without the possibility of parole. Florida laws follow federal guidelines for both legal thresholds and mandatory minimum sentences.
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Learn about the Florida penal code and the associated penalty for drug dealing through the official Web site of the Florida Legislature (see Resources below).
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Find a criminal defense attorney in Florida who has experience handling drug cases. You can ask about the possibility of a free consultation to get more information about the penalties you face.
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Explore the free or low-cost legal aid resources provided by the state of Florida. You can search for an inexpensive legal clinic in your area on the Florida Bar Web site (see Resources below).
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Know your rights. Even if you've been charged with the intent to sell or distribute illegal drugs, you still have constitutional rights. The American Civil Liberties Union can help you understand your rights (see Resources below).
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Tips & Warnings
You have the right to be represented by competent counsel throughout your trial. If you can't afford to hire a lawyer, the state of Florida must appoint a qualified attorney to represent you.
