Drug trafficking offenses in Florida are typically charged as first-degree felonies. These offenses are generally punishable by up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. However, some drug trafficking charges can carry a life sentence, as specified in Florida Statutes 775.082 and 775.083.
Florida law requires mandatory minimum prison sentences and a mandatory fine for most trafficking convictions. Specific sentences based on the type of drug and the amount or weight involved are laid out in Statute 893.135 — the Florida drug trafficking statute. If you face drug trafficking charges, call 407-759-6457 to talk to an experienced Orlando drug trafficking defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.
Under Florida law, drug trafficking occurs when someone knowingly:
The charge applies when the amount of the drug meets or exceeds specific quantities.
The charge applies when the amount of the drug meets or exceeds specific quantities.
Drug trafficking sentencing begins with a certain amount or weight that varies for each controlled substance. Below are the threshold amounts that trigger trafficking charges in Florida according to Statute 893.135. (Penalties for fentanyl trafficking have been increased.*):
*These tougher penalties for fentanyl trafficking take effect on Oct. 1, 2025
An experienced and aggressive drug trafficking defense attorney can use various tactics to contest the evidence and procedures involved:
In numerous instances, there may be valid doubts regarding the defendant’s awareness and actual possession of illegal substances.
Defense lawyers can examine whether proper legal procedures were followed throughout the investigation and arrest.
The defense can question the validity and execution of search warrants
Attorneys can investigate chain of custody and proper handling of evidence.
Your defense lawyer can challenge the reliability and accuracy of crime lab tests.
By aggressively examining these aspects, a defense attorney will work to protect their client’s rights and to weaken the prosecution’s case. For more about drug trafficking sentencing, call 407-759-6457 to speak with an Orlando criminal defense attorney at the Rivas Law Firm.
