St. Petersburg Drug Crimes Lawyers
Drug charges are serious and can quickly escalate. Our experienced drug crime lawyers are committed to shielding clients from aggressive prosecutions and working to protect the rights of our defendants.
What often sets us apart is our lead attorney’s invaluable experience as a former prosecutor. We understand how prosecutors build cases and the methods they use to pursue convictions. This knowledge often allows us to anticipate prosecutorial strategies and prepare robust defenses to counter their arguments.
From our St. Petersburg office, we work with defendants throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Manatee Counties. Call (727) 619-1827 or contact us online today.
Common Drug Charges in Florida
- Drug possession: Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly possessed an illegal substance or that you had “constructive” possession, meaning the drug was under your control due to proximity.
- Possession of drug paraphernalia: This includes items used to consume, produce, transport, or grow drugs, such as pipes, scales, or syringes.
- Drug trafficking: These charges involve the sale, transportation, production, or possession of large quantities of controlled substances.
- Prescription drug trafficking: This refers to the unlawful transportation or distribution of medications that require a professional prescription to be legal.
- Possession with intent to sell: The prosecution must establish that you not only had control over a controlled substance, but that you intended to distribute it.
- Methamphetamine trafficking: Charges apply when individuals knowingly possess, sell, manufacture, or transport 14 grams or more of methamphetamine or a related mixture.
- Marijuana possession: Possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana is typically a first-degree misdemeanor, while amounts exceeding 20 grams often result in a third-degree felony charge.
Recreational marijuana is not legal in Florida. However, medical marijuana is allowed as long as you have a physician certification. You must also have one of the following conditions:
- Cancer
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Positive status for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Crohn’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Chronic nonmalignant pain
- A terminal condition
- Another condition of a similar medical class to those listed
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?
Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care
As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
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Experience That Matters
Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
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Relentless Preparation
Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
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Hands-On Advocacy
When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
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Personalized Representation
At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Call the Skilled Drug Crimes Lawyers in our St. Petersburg Office
With two decades of experience, we are deeply familiar with the intricacies of Florida’s drug laws and court system. We believe in crafting customized strategies to address the specific challenges of your case. Whether it involves securing reduced charges, dismissals, or alternative sentencing, our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Our team is available 24/7 to stand by your side and fight for your future. Count on us to listen, understand, and provide a legal approach that addresses your unique needs. Time is critical when facing drug charges, so you reach out to us ASAP.
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“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”- Frank M.
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“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”- Priestly V.
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“He is compassionate and helpful.”- Carolyn A.
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“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”- J. Hughes
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“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”- Michael K.
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“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”- Tawna L.
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“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”- Jared
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“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”- Jeffrey B.
Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.
Possible Defenses Against Drug Charges
No two situations are exactly alike, but here are three common defenses used in drug-related cases and how they can be effective in protecting your rights:
Entrapment
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers or informants persuade or pressure an individual into committing a drug-related crime they would not have otherwise committed.
For example, if an undercover officer coerces someone into selling or purchasing drugs by exerting repeated pressure or exploiting vulnerabilities, this could be considered entrapment.
Unlawful Search and Seizure
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects people from illegal searches and seizures conducted by law enforcement. If officers failed to follow proper procedures, such as obtaining a valid search warrant or establishing probable cause, any evidence they uncovered may be deemed inadmissible in court.
For instance, if drugs were found during a traffic stop without legal justification or unlawfully obtained during a home search, this could weaken the prosecution's case. If they are not able to admit this evidence in court, it may result in the complete dismissal of the charges.
Chain of Custody Issues
Drug evidence must be handled and documented correctly from the moment it is seized to its presentation in court. This process is known as the chain of custody. Any break in this chain—such as evidence being lost, contaminated, or improperly stored—can cast doubt on the reliability of the prosecution's evidence.
For example, if there are discrepancies in how the evidence was reported, transported, or tested, this could lead to questions about whether the drugs presented in court are the same as those allegedly seized.
Call (727) 619-1827 today. We can meet in person, or we can set up a video conference appointment.