Orlando Drug Crime Lawyers

Experienced Orlando Drug Crime Attorneys Ready To Serve You

A conviction for a drug-related charge can result in serious penalties. The State of Florida has some of the toughest drug laws in the country. A drug charge conviction can result in prison time, a criminal record, probation and even a driver’s license suspension. If you face a drug crime charge in central Florida, you need an experienced Orlando drug crime lawyer who will protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

At the Orlando, Florida, law firm of Moses and Rooth, Attorneys at Law, we bring a unique perspective to the defense of drug charges. How?

• Both of our criminal defense attorneys have practiced criminal law exclusively for the duration of their legal careers.
• Both members of our lawyer team are former prosecutors. We understand how prosecutors approach cases and factor this knowledge in when strategizing the defense of clients’ drug crime charges.

Contact Moses and Rooth, Attorneys at Law for experienced criminal defense legal assistance following drug crime charges in central Florida. Call us at 407-377-0150.

Overview: Orlando Drug Crimes Lawyer Discusses Florida Drug Crime Laws

Florida has strict drug laws. Unlike many states that have started relaxing drug laws, Florida has not. You could face stiff, life-altering penalties after a drug crimes conviction. To help avoid these penalties, you should consult an Orlando drug crimes attorney who has extensive experience fighting for people like you.

Drug Schedules and Penalties

Schedules

Florida classifies drugs based on schedules that classify narcotics based on their potency, the potential for addiction, and medical benefits. 

For example, heroin and fentanyl derivatives are on Schedule I. Cannabis, peyote, and psilocybin also appear in Schedule I.

Schedule II drugs include morphine, hydrocodone (oxycontin), fentanyl, cocaine, and methadone. Schedule III drugs include LSD and small amounts of codeine, hydrocodone, morphine, and steroids. Schedule IV lists prescription drugs like Klonopin. Schedule V includes low doses of Schedule IV drugs and other stimulants.

Penalty Overview

Generally, drug possession is a third-degree felony. But the penalty you face depends on a number of variables, such as the classification and amount of drugs found. Third-degree felonies carry up to five years in a Florida prison. However, possessing 10 grams or more of certain Schedule I drugs is a first-degree felony. The maximum penalty for a first-degree felony is life in prison.

On the other hand, possession of less than 20 grams of cannabis is a misdemeanor, and possession of a Schedule V drug is a second-degree misdemeanor.

Drug Possession

Florida prohibits possessing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. A drug possession lawyer might call this crime “simple possession.” Simple possession is different from possession with the intent to sell, manufacture, or distribute the substance.

In Florida, simple possession refers to both actual and constructive possession. Actual possession refers to having direct physical control over an object that is on your person. An example would be when you are holding your cell phone, or it is on your person. Constructive possession refers to having the intent to exercise dominion and control over a thing that is not actually on your person. For example, you have constructive possession of your cell phone when it is charging in the kitchen, but you are in your bedroom.

Distribution or Sale of Narcotics

Florida law severely punishes possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute, manufacture, or sell, as well as selling, manufacturing, and distributing narcotics. The punishment for these acts depends on several factors, including the schedule of the drug.

Moreover, Florida law includes minimum mandatory sentences based on where the crime occurs, such as within 1,000 feet of a school or a daycare facility.

Punishments for these offenses range from first-degree to third-degree felonies, depending on the type of drug. However, possessing with the intent to sell or distribute a Schedule V drug is a first-degree misdemeanor.  

Federal vs. State Drug Crime Laws

Federal and state drug laws overlap. Narcotic possession is a federal crime, as is possession with the intent to sell or manufacture. However, federal prosecutors do not pursue federal charges whenever someone is arrested at the state level for a drug crime. They could, but federal law enforcement authorities target traffickers, importers, and manufacturers of narcotics or people running drug rings rather than going after someone who sells heroin to feed a habit. 

The penalties for federal drug crimes are severe. You’ll need legal assistance from a dedicated and highly-experienced Orlando drug crimes lawyer if you are the subject of a federal drug investigation. 

Drug Crimes Defense Strategies

Representation from a skilled drug charge lawyer in Orlando can help you get the best possible defense for your case. Search and seizure issues are routinely present in drug cases. However, we look at other avenues of defense for all of our clients to ensure they get the defense that best suits them.

Depending on the facts of your case, we might be able to get the case thrown out because you have no connection to the drugs. Or you might have a case that stands a good chance of getting an acquittal if we take it to trial. Finally, entering into plea negotiations with the prosecutor might be the best way to reduce your exposure to Florida’s harsh drug penalties. 

No matter your charges, you can rest assured that a drug crime lawyer in Orlando will examine every avenue of defense for you. Our team has decades of legal experience as prosecutors and defense attorneys. You can rely on us to help when you need it the most.

Our Orlando Drug Crime Defense Lawyers Handle a Full Range of Cases

We have handled many drug crime charges and are highly experienced in handling virtually all types of drug violations. Case types we commonly handle include:

10/10 Andrew Moses is a professional hard working lawyer who goes above and beyond for his clients. If you’re scared about the legal system and in a bind look no further he will give you a clear view.

veronica heissner

2023-04-01

Paul Ghezzi took his time and listened to my issue AND did exactly what he said he would do. If you want someone who will listen and follow their word, then call Paul.

Jordan Cristwell

2023-03-23

Absolutely tremendous staff (Tracy was Great 👍🏾). Attorney Rooth gave me a layout of the charges I was facing and he was able to successfully fight my tickets that would've jeopardized my driving record. Highly recommended. Can't thank ya enough

Emmanuel Rogers

2023-03-23

This law firm went on a 2 year roller coaster ride with me. They kept me from going to prison. They got me into rehab. I can say for certain that I am sober and intend to stay this way. Thanks to Mr. Jay Rooth , THE ORLANDO BRIDGE, My family and friends and above all myself. I can finally close this chapter in my life. Thanks again Moses and Rooth.

robert carlin

2023-02-23

A wealth of legal expertise coupled with a make it happen professional attitude is exactly what you get when you hire Attorney Paul E. Ghezzi, Esq., of Moses & Rooth, to represent you. From my initial consultation Paul exuded an air of overwhelming confidence in his ability to get the Court to grant my motion for early termination of probation. Mom always said to me that God gave us all 2 ears to listen twice as much as we talk. Paul did just that, he listened intently to my intricate predicament which is a major attribute in the legal world. Having said that, when he spoke, I hung on every word and the motion was granted. Thank you Paul. Ladies and gentlemen, to regain your peace of mind in tough legal times, get yourself a magnificently savvy go-getter type of attorney.......Call Moses & Rooth and ask for Attorney Paul Ghezzi. With Paul, failure is NOT an option!

Byrd Risner

2023-02-02

Paul Ghezzi, ESQ. represented me for a felony criminal defense case. He was able to get my 2 felonies dismissed & arrived at a plea for a misdemeanor with minimal fine and time served. He spent the time searching through my discovery and watching body cam footage to find my defense. An iron clad one at that That left the prosecution confused on why I was getting the deal of a lifetime. His knowledge on case law, his dedication of time to his clients and his empathy are unmatched. He is even trying to help me find an attorney to help me with a case I have in another state. Above & beyond is an understatement and the retainer was more than reasonable and well worth it. As somebody whose criminal history is as tall as me I have never had a lawyer fight for me, until now. If you find yourself in the position to need a power house attorney, look no further. You found him. to put this into full view for you, a case I could have done 5 years in prison for and have been sentenced to that for similar cases in the past, he was able to get me time served (for two days I spent in county awaiting bond), less than a $1,000 fine and NO PROBATION. When I have priors. I’m going to say it again, LOOK NO FURTHER.

Ashley Renee

2023-01-28

I have hired attorneys in the past and I have to share that I’ve never had an attorney like Paul Ghezzi from Moses & Rooth, Attorneys at Law. Paul kept in contact with us through the entire process. Paul was always available for any questions we had and was always willing to go the extra mile. From my family to you Paul you are more than just attorney your now my friend. You are so much appreciated. Thank you Paul for being you! I strongly recommend this law firm if any of these attorneys give you 50% of what Paul has done for my family you will be in great shape!

Vicente Vigil

2023-01-27

I had an excellent experience with Moses and Rooth. From beginning to end I felt I had trusted the right firm. Jay Rooth represented me in my case and having an attorney who was pleasant, professional, and very experienced was everything. During a stressful time, I feel much of the stress was reduced due to the fact I made a good decision going with Jay. What is also important is everyone at this office is fantastic and helpful throughout the process. Many thanks !

Erin Meaney

2023-01-24

If I could tell Mr. Jay Rooth a million times how much I thank and appreciate him I would ! After being told by three attorneys that my case was complicated and couldn’t be turned around, I almost gave up but my last attempt to fix my situation was the best decision I could have made ! Mr. Rooth worked so efficiently to help me. His knowledge, confidence, and reassurance is truly unbelievable. He updated me, communicated with me and did not miss a beat ! I will forever be grateful, I’ve been bragging on him ever since our first conversation! 10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND !!!!!!

Nastashia Kirkwood

2022-08-20

Andrew is an amazing attorney. He really cares about his clients and goes above and beyond. Finding him was a blessing and my family and I will be forever be grateful to him.

Jessy C.

2022-07-11

Sale & Delivery Charges

• Conspiracy to traffic drugs
• Cultivation/Growhouse Charges
• Drug Manufacturing
• Possession with Intent to Deliver or Sell
• Sale and Delivery of Cannabis
• Sale and Delivery of Cocaine
• Sale and Delivery of Fentanyl
• Sale and Delivery of Meth / Methamphetamine
• Sale and Delivery of Heroin
• Sale and Delivery of MDMA
• Sale and Delivery of Cannabis

Drug Possession

• Cocaine Possession
• MDMA/Ecstasy Possession
• Fentanyl Possession
• Florida Drug Court Diversion Program
• Heroin Possession
• Marijuana/Cannabis Possession Over 20 Grams
• Marijuana/Cannabis Possession Under 20 Grams
• Marijuana Possession
• Synthetic Marijuana, Spice, K2 Possession
• Meth, Methamphetamine Possession
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Possession of Prescription Drugs

Drug Trafficking

• Cannabis Trafficking
• Cocaine Trafficking
• Conspiracy to Traffic Drugs
• Drug Trafficking Charges
• Heroin Trafficking
• MDMA Trafficking
• Methamphetamine Trafficking
• Oxy, OxyContin, Prescription Drug Trafficking

Prescription Drug Charges

• Charges Involving Oxycodone/Oxycontin/oxyContin/roxycontin
• Possession of Oxy
• Possession of Xanax
• Doctor shopping
• Orlando Prescription Alteration Defense Lawyers
• Orlando Prescription Drug Possession Lawyers
• Prescription Fraud
• Prescription Drug Charges

Florida Drug Crimes: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When Should I Hire an Orlando Drug Defense Lawyer?

You should hire a drug crime defense lawyer as early on in your case as possible. One of the biggest mistakes that criminal defendants make in drug cases is waiting to seek professional legal representation.

If the police are questioning you about drugs or any other type of crime, you should consider yourself a suspect. Anything that you say can be used against you in court.

Unfortunately, your words may even get twisted around and turned into something that you did not intend. The sooner you get an Orlando drug crime defense attorney by your side, the better off you will be.

What are the Penalties for a Drug Crime Case in Florida?

The penalties for a drug-related offense vary dramatically. Ultimately, the penalties depend entirely on the specific nature of the charges against you. As a general rule, possession charges are less severe than distribution or manufacturing charges. Still, there is truly no such thing as a minor drug offense.

If you have been arrested for any type of drug crime in Orange County, Florida, you need to get your case into the hands of an experienced Orlando drug charge lawyer as soon as possible.

How Will a Criminal Defense Attorney Protect My Rights?

All drug crime cases are different. The steps that your Orlando, FL defense attorney will take to protect your rights will depend on the unique circumstances of your case. It is important to work with a criminal legal practitioner that can offer you a fully individualized legal defense.

To start, a drug charges defense attorney will often review your case to determine if your rights were violated. For example, if the police did not have probable cause to conduct a search of you or your home, any evidence that they obtained against you might not be admissible in a court of law.

In reviewing the evidence in your case, your Orlando drug crime defense attorney will also need to determine whether or not prosecutors can prove all of the elements of the charges being brought against you. If the charges are invalid due to a lack of evidence or other reasons, then the proper legal strategy may be to mount an aggressive defense.

Of course, an aggressive defense strategy is not appropriate in every case. In some cases, it is far more sensible to focus on reducing punishment. If you are being charged with drug possession, there may be pre-trial intervention options available to you. You may be eligible to seek treatment, and you may be able to avoid any time in jail.

Contact Our Orlando Drug Crime Lawyers Today

Do not face your drug charges alone. If you were arrested for a drug-related offense in Central Florida, you need to be prepared to seek aggressive legal representation. Your freedom may be at stake. You should not trust your case to an amateur.

At Moses & Rooth Attorneys at Law, our top-rated Orlando drug crime defense lawyers are standing by, ready to advocate for your best interests. Call us to speak with an experienced Orlando drug crime attorney at our Orlando law office for a no-charge initial consultation and for experienced and committed legal help.