Types of Drug Crimes We Handle
At Stoddard Law Firm, we handle a wide range of drug-related charges in Sarasota, each with its own legal complexities. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, our team is prepared to defend you against the following types of drug crimes:
- Drug Possession: Charges for having illegal substances in your possession, whether for personal use or otherwise.
- Drug Trafficking: Involves the sale, purchase, manufacturing, delivery, or possession of specific larger amounts of controlled substances. Florida has severe penalties for trafficking, involving strict mandatory minimum sentences.
- Drug Manufacturing/Producing: Charges for growing, producing, or creating illegal substances, such as operating a meth lab or growing marijuana.
- Drug Distribution: Involves selling or delivering illegal drugs to others, often carrying severe penalties.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: If law enforcement believes drugs in your possession were meant for sale, you could face harsher charges.
- Prescription Drug Fraud: Involves illegal acquisition or distribution of prescription medications.
No matter the charge, we work diligently to defend your rights and build a solid defense strategy.
Potential Penalties for Drug Crimes in Florida
Drug crimes in Florida carry severe penalties, often depending on the type and quantity of the substance involved, as well as the nature of the offense. For minor drug possession charges, penalties can include fines, probation, and jail time. More serious offenses like drug trafficking or manufacturing can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent criminal records. Felony drug convictions may also lead to long-term consequences, such as loss of civil rights, difficulty finding employment, and ineligibility for certain government benefits. The stakes are high, making a strong defense crucial.
Our Approach to Defending Drug Crimes
At Stoddard Law Firm, we take a personalized approach to defending clients facing drug charges in Sarasota. Our goal is to thoroughly investigate each case and develop a tailored strategy that maximizes the chances of a favorable outcome. Some of the defense strategies we may implement include:
- Challenging the legality of the search and seizure: If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation, we can argue to suppress evidence.
- Proving lack of knowledge or possession: In some cases, you may not have known the drugs were in your possession or were falsely accused.
- Arguing for entrapment: If law enforcement coerced or manipulated you into committing a drug offense, this could be a valid defense.
- Challenging the chain of custody: Mistakes in handling or storing evidence can weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiating reduced charges or diversion programs: We can work to reduce charges or secure alternatives like drug treatment programs.
Our experience and attention to detail help us build strong defenses for our clients.
Why Choose Stoddard Law Firm?
Choosing Stoddard Law Firm means partnering with a team dedicated to aggressively defending your rights in drug crime cases. With extensive experience in Sarasota’s courts, we have a deep understanding of how local prosecutors and judges handle drug offenses. Our proven track record includes successfully challenging evidence, securing reduced charges, and getting cases dismissed.
We tailor each defense to the unique circumstances of your case, ensuring you receive the strongest possible representation. Whether you’re facing possession, trafficking, or distribution charges, we are committed to delivering results. At Stoddard Law Firm, you are not just another case—we provide personalized attention and fight tirelessly for the best outcome.
Get the Defense You Deserve
If you’re facing drug charges in Sarasota, Stoddard Law Firm is here to help. Don’t leave your future to chance—contact us today for a confidential consultation. We will review your case, discuss your legal options, and develop a strategy to defend your rights. Time is critical, so reach out now and let us provide the aggressive defense you need.