Orlando Heroin Trafficking Attorneys

Florida Statute 893.135(1)(c)(1) defines the criminal offense of trafficking in heroin as knowingly possessing, selling, buying, manufacturing, delivering, or transporting 4 grams or more of heroin or any derivative (subordinate) compound. Because it is a drug crime that results in mandatory prison time and substantial fines for those found guilty, it is important to consult with a seasoned Orlando heroin trafficking lawyer right away. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, we work tirelessly in an effort to protect the freedom, reputation and future of our clients, regardless of the alleged offense committed.

As mentioned above, any activity involving 4 grams or more of heroin can leave you facing trafficking charges. This is a first-degree felony offense which in the state of Florida will be assigned a level 8 or 9 severity ranking under the state's Criminal Punishment Code. This scoring system is used in court to determine the minimum allowable sentence for any crime that is designated a felony, with 10 being the most serious offense level in a ranking system that assigns offense levels between 1 and 10. If you are found in possession of as little as 4 grams of heroin, you could face trafficking charges.

The penalties for those found guilty (convicted) of trafficking in heroin are severe and even life changing. The penalties you will face if convicted depend on the amount involved, criminal history and other factors.

4 grams but less than 14 grams of heroin may be punished by a maximum of 30 years in prison and a $50,000 fine, however the mandatory minimum sentence is three (3) years in prison.

14 grams up to 27 grams of heroin may be punished by a maximum of 30 years in prison along with a $100,000 fine, however the mandatory minimum sentence is 15 years in prison.

28 grams and up to 29 kilograms of heroin will result in a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison, with a maximum of 30 years possible. A $500,000 fine will also be imposed.

30 grams or more of heroin will result in a mandatory life in prison sentence with a fine of $500,000.

These are extremely serious penalties, and those found guilty of heroin trafficking will also face other punishment including the suspension of any professional license issued by the state pursuant to Florida Statute 893.11, and driver's license suspension. A criminal record will impact employment, housing, student loans and other more.

Of course anyone who has been charged with trafficking in heroin in Orlando or anywhere in Florida wants to have the charge dismissed when possible. In some cases it may be advantageous to have the charge reduced, however if your case goes to trial you want a strong, effective defense in order to reach a not guilty verdict. Some of the most common defense strategies used by Orlando drug crimes defense lawyers to reach the best possible result for the client include:

• Illegal search and seizure
• Entrapment
• Insufficient evidence
• Substantial assistance
• Lack of knowledge

Perhaps you did not know the substance found near you was illegal. Maybe police officers went beyond their scope of authority and performed an illegal search. Law enforcement officers often participate in situations where they convince those they are attempting to "catch" that they are potential customers or involved in the drug trade. This is known as entrapment, another possible defense depending on the facts of your case. There may also be a lack of evidence to support a conviction, or evidence that is not allowed in court if secured illegally. Regardless of the circumstances, our dedicated Florida heroin trafficking defense attorneys will work tirelessly to provide a solid and effective defense.

It is important to know that drug cases do not always go to trial. It may be possible to have charges dismissed, or charges reduced depending on the evidence and facts of your case. However, it is important to work with a qualified Orlando drug crimes lawyer who will develop a strong defense in the event your case does go to trial, one who will fight for your rights and work vigorously to protect your freedom, reputation and future. If you have been arrested or charged with trafficking in heroin, contact Adams, Luka, & Benton now for a free consultation at 407-872-0307.