A drug trafficking charge in Florida can lead to mandatory minimum sentences—ranging from 3 years to life in prison—depending on the substance and quantity. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo defends clients against possession with intent to distribute, federal mail drug cases, and constructive possession allegations in Miami, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale. We challenge illegal searches, flawed lab tests, and overzealous prosecutions to protect your freedom.
Our Florida Drug Trafficking Attorney Is There for You
Florida’s drug laws (FS § 893.135) impose harsh penalties, even for first-time offenders. Whether you’re accused of sending drugs through the mail, constructive possession, or trafficking opioids/cocaine, we dissect every piece of evidence—from search warrant affidavits to drug test reliability—to weaken the prosecution’s case.
Defending Against Federal Drug Trafficking Charges
Federal cases (especially mailing drugs or receiving illegal drugs in the mail) carry stricter penalties. We work with forensic experts to challenge DEA lab reports and chain-of-custody errors.
Fighting Possession with Intent to Distribute
Prosecutors often assume intent based on quantity or packaging. We present evidence of personal use, medical necessity, or improper police assumptions.
Search Warrant Challenges in Florida
If police raided your home without a valid search warrant for drugs, we file motions to suppress evidence—a key reason drug cases get thrown out.
Florida Drug Trafficking Laws (FS § 893.135)
Florida imposes mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking:
- Cocaine (28g+): 3-year minimum
- Fentanyl (4g+): 3-year minimum
- Heroin (4g+): 15-year minimum
Even prescription drugs like oxycodone can lead to trafficking charges if improperly obtained.
Types of Drug Cases We Handle
Federal Drug Trafficking (Mail, UPS, FedEx)
Sending drugs through the mail is a federal crime (21 U.S.C. § 843). We challenge surveillance methods and ‘controlled delivery’ protocols.
Constructive Possession of Drugs
If drugs were found in a shared space (car, home), we prove you had no knowledge or control—a common defense in Florida drug charge cases.
Prescription Drug Fraud
Doctors and patients face charges for illegal prescriptions. We analyze medical records to dispute intent.
Key Defenses in Drug Trafficking Cases
- Illegal Search & Seizure: Was the search warrant for drugs valid?
- Chain of Custody Broken: Lab errors can invalidate evidence.
- No Actual Possession: Challenging constructive possession claims.
- Entrapment: Common in undercover stings.
Steps in a Florida Drug Trafficking Case
- Arrest & Charges Filed *(How long do police have to file drug charges? Typically 1-3 years for felonies.)*
- Bond Hearing (We argue for lower bail or pretrial release.)
- Discovery Phase (We subpoena lab records, police reports, and witness statements.)
- Plea Negotiations (Seeking reduced charges like simple possession.)
- Trial (Juries often doubt police testimony in Miami-Dade drug cases.)
Why You Need a Drug Trafficking Specialist
Florida prosecutors never offer deals without a fight. Dominique Russo’s trial experience in Broward and Palm Beach drug courts ensures you get an aggressive defense—not just a plea bargain.
Drug Trafficking FAQs
What’s the penalty for receiving drugs in the mail?
Federal prison (5+ years) under 21 U.S.C. § 841. We challenge ‘knowledge’—did you know the package contained drugs?
Can drug cases be thrown out?
Yes—if police violated your rights (illegal stop, faulty warrant, or mishandled evidence).
Contact Our Florida Drug Trafficking Attorney
Don’t speak to police—call Russo Law & Advocacy first. We offer 24/7 consultations for Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach drug cases: (305) 209-5301.
