Dual Expertise in Drug and Firearms Defense
When facing combined drug and weapons charges in Florida, you need more than a general criminal defense attorney, you need a specialist who understands the severe penalties and complex defenses for these interrelated offenses. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo serves as an experienced lawyer for drug charges and firearms law attorney protecting clients across Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. We build strategic defenses that address both types of charges simultaneously, fighting for reduced penalties or complete dismissals.
Florida prosecutors aggressively pursue cases involving drugs and firearms, often seeking enhanced penalties and mandatory minimum sentences. Whether you need a lawyer for drug possession or a weapons charges lawyer, our dual expertise provides comprehensive protection.
Why You Need a Specialist Lawyer for Drug Cases
Understanding Florida’s Drug Laws
Florida has some of the nation’s strictest drug laws under FS § 893.13. A skilled lawyer for drug case knows:
✅ Mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking quantities
✅ School zone enhancements (within 1,000 feet of schools)
✅ Different penalties for prescription vs. illicit drugs
✅ Pretrial diversion options for first-time offenders
Common Drug Charges We Defend
- Drug Possession (Misdemeanor and felony levels)
- Possession with Intent to Distribute
- Drug Trafficking (Severe mandatory minimums)
- Prescription Drug Fraud
- Manufacturing/Cultivation charges
Firearms Law Attorney: Defending Weapons Charges
Why You Need Lawyers for Gun Charges
Florida’s firearms laws under FS § 790 create complex legal scenarios requiring lawyers that specialize in gun cases:
✅ 10-20-Life mandatory minimums for firearm use during felonies
✅ Enhanced penalties for possession by convicted felons
✅ Federal crossover potential for interstate issues
✅ Complex self-defense claims under Stand Your Ground
Common Weapons Charges We Handle
- Felon in Possession of Firearm
- Carrying Concealed Weapon Without License
- Improper Exhibition of Firearm
- Aggravated Assault with Firearm
- Federal firearms violations
Combined Drug and Firearms Charges: Enhanced Penalties
When drugs and firearms intersect, penalties increase dramatically:
Federal Drug-Gun Nexus
- Enhanced sentencing guidelines under federal law
- Mandatory consecutive sentences in some cases
- No parole in federal system
Florida’s Enhanced Penalties
| Combination | Enhanced Penalty |
|---|---|
| Drug Trafficking + Firearm | Mandatory minimum increases |
| Possession with Intent + Firearm | Higher felony classification |
| Simple Possession + Firearm | Possible trafficking charges |
Defense Strategies for Combined Charges
✅ Challenge the search that discovered both drugs and firearms
✅ Separate possession claims (drugs belonged to one person, gun to another)
✅ Attack forensic evidence linking you to both items
✅ Negotiate package deals resolving all charges together
Armed Robbery: Specific Firearms Defense Considerations
How Much Time Does Armed Robbery Carry?
Clients often ask how much time does armed robbery carry? Under FS § 812.13:
- First-degree felony
- Up to life imprisonment
- 10-year mandatory minimum if firearm used (10-20-Life law)
- Enhanced penalties for injuries or multiple victims
What Can Armed Robbery Be Reduced To?
Through skilled negotiation, we often secure reductions to:
- Robbery (no firearm enhancement)
- Burglary or theft charges
- Assault or battery in some circumstances
- Pretrial diversion for certain first-time offenders
Can Armed Robbery Be Expunged?
Regarding can armed robbery be expunged? – generally no:
- Violent felonies cannot be expunged in Florida
- Limited exceptions for withhold of adjudication on reduced charges
- Federal convictions have separate, stricter rules
How Much Does a Drug Lawyer Cost?
Understanding how much does a drug lawyer cost helps with planning:
Fee Structures for Drug Cases
| Case Type | Typical Cost Range | Factors Affecting Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Possession | $2,500 – $5,000 | Quantity, prior record, location |
| Trafficking Charges | $7,500 – $25,000+ | Drug type, weight, federal involvement |
| Combined Drug + Gun | $10,000 – $30,000+ | Severity, mandatory minimum risks |
Value of Specialized Defense
- Avoiding mandatory minimums can save years of freedom
- Reducing felony to misdemeanor protects future opportunities
- Preserving professional licenses maintains earning capacity
- Avoiding federal prosecution prevents harsher penalties
Strategic Defense Approaches
Drug Charge Defenses
✅ Illegal Search and Seizure – Fourth Amendment violations
✅ Chain of Custody Issues – Evidence handling problems
✅ Lack of Knowledge/Possession – Drugs belonged to others
✅ Medical Marijuana Defenses – Valid Florida medical cards
✅ Entrapment – Law enforcement induced the crime
Firearms Charge Defenses
✅ Stand Your Ground – Lawful self-defense under FS § 776.012
✅ Lack of Constructive Possession – No control over firearm location
✅ Registration/Carry Permits – Valid licenses or exemptions
✅ Firearm Malfunction – Accidental discharge claims
✅ Mental State Defenses – Lack of specific intent
Combined Defense Strategies
- Attack probable cause for the initial stop/search
- Challenge forensic testing of both drugs and firearms
- Present mitigating evidence for sentencing
- Negotiate global resolutions addressing all charges
FAQs About Drug and Firearms Defense
1. Can drug charges be dropped if the search was illegal?
Yes, if we prove Fourth Amendment violations, evidence may be suppressed, leading to dismissed charges.
2. What’s the difference between state and federal gun charges?
Federal charges often carry longer sentences, no parole, and are prosecuted by experienced U.S. Attorneys.
3. Can I own a gun after drug charges?
Possibly, depends on the charge level and whether you received a withhold of adjudication.
4. How long do drug/firearm cases typically take?
3-18 months, depending on case complexity, evidence testing, and negotiation progress.
5. Do you handle cases throughout South Florida?
Yes. We serve all South Florida counties, including:
- Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter)
- Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines)
- Miami-Dade County (Miami, Coral Gables, Hialeah)
Facing Drug or Firearms Charges? Get Defense Help Now
If you need a lawyer for drug charges or a firearms law attorney, contact Dominique Russo at Russo Law & Advocacy for a free consultation. We serve clients across South Florida, including:
📍 Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter)
📍 Broward County (Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines)
📍 Miami-Dade County (Miami, Coral Gables, Hialeah)
“Drug and firearm charges carry severe penalties that require specialized defense. We fight to protect your freedom and future.”
