Orlando Hydrocodone Trafficking Attorneys

Hydrocodone trafficking is a serious crime. Also known as Lortab, Norco, etc., this is a prescription opioid narcotic drug that is highly abused and addictive. Hydrocodone and other opioids are frequently sold unlawfully in Orlando and throughout Florida; those charged with trafficking will face severe punishment if convicted. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our trafficking attorneys work vigorously to protect the legal rights and freedom of clients accused of this serious third-degree felony charge.

Florida Statute 893.135(1)(c)(2) defines trafficking in hydrocodone as knowingly possessing, purchasing, delivering, selling, manufacturing, or transporting hydrocodone in amounts of 14 grams or more. Weight of the substance is not determined by the combined dosages, but by the aggregate or quantity of the pills. It is not uncommon for someone who possesses a valid prescription to be arrested for suspected criminal activity.

The punishment you face if convicted of hydrocodone trafficking depend on factors including criminal history, the amount of drug involved and more. Under the state's criminal punishment code this offense is typically assigned a severity ranking of level 8 or level 9. Minimum sentences applied when the state attorney does not agree to waive mandatory minimum sentencing requirements is as follows:

14 to 28 grams - Mandatory minimum sentence of 36 months in prison, however the judge can sentence you to a maximum of 30 years along with a $50,000 fine.

28 to 50 grams - Mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison, however the judge can sentence you to a maximum of 30 years in prison along with a $100,000 fine.

50 grams to 200 grams - Mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, however the judge can sentence you to a maximum of 30 years in prison along with a $500,000 fine.

200 grams to 30 kilograms - Mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, however the judge can sentence you to a maximum of 30 years in prison along with a $750,000 fine.

It is very clear that a conviction will result in severe penalties, however those found guilty will not only have a criminal record that will impact employment, housing and other opportunities, but their driving privilege revoked for a period of one year as well. Certain professional licenses will be suspended as well.

There are a variety of defenses commonly used by Orlando hydrocodone defense attorneys to reach favorable results for the client. Depending on the unique circumstances of your case, defenses may include but are not limited to:

• Illegal search and seizure
• Insufficient evidence
• Entrapment
• Valid prescription
• Substantial assistance

Law enforcement officers are often over-zealous in their efforts to arrest and charge those they suspect have committed drug offenses. Because of this, they may perform a search illegally, for instance not obtaining a proper search warrant and searching a vehicle or home without reasonable cause. Police also frequently "entrap" those they suspect by portraying themselves as interested customers, especially online. Working undercover, they may say or do things that encourage someone to commit a crime that person would not have normally committed. Prosecutors must submit sufficient evidence in order for the accused to be found guilty; they have the burden of proof. There are a multitude of defense strategies that may prove effective depending on each case.

Substantial assistance is not actually a defense, however if the defendant can deliver information regarding others who are involved in trafficking that assists law enforcement in making arrests within a brief window of time, the state attorney may request the court suspend or reduce the sentence of the convicted individual.

If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with trafficking in hydrocodone, you must take action immediately. Your legal rights must be protected; police can and will lie in an effort to get a suspect to admit to something he or she did not do. Our Orlando hydrocodone trafficking defense attorneys fight vigorously on behalf of every client we represent. Protect your rights, freedom and future by contacting Adams, Luka, & Benton at 407-872-0307 for a free consultation.