Facing Drug Charges in Florida?
Protect Your Rights Against Possession, Trafficking & Other Drug Crimes
Experienced Defense | Understanding Your Options
Request a Free ConsultationTypes of Drug Crimes in Florida (Chapter 893)
Florida's drug laws are comprehensive and cover a wide range of offenses under Chapter 893, Florida Statutes. Penalties vary significantly based on the specific charge, the type of drug, and the quantity involved.
Drug Possession
Unlawfully possessing a controlled substance. Can be a misdemeanor (e.g., small amount of marijuana) or a felony (most other controlled substances).
Possession with Intent to Sell
Possessing drugs with evidence suggesting intent to distribute (large quantity, packaging materials, scales, cash).
Drug Trafficking
Knowingly selling, purchasing, manufacturing, delivering, or possessing specific large quantities of controlled substances (e.g., Cocaine, Fentanyl, Heroin, Cannabis over 25 lbs).
Manufacturing
Producing or preparing a controlled substance illegally (e.g., growing marijuana, operating a meth lab).
Possession of Paraphernalia
Possessing items used to plant, propagate, cultivate, grow, harvest, manufacture, compound, convert, produce, process, prepare, test, analyze, pack, repack, store, contain, conceal, inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce into the human body a controlled substance (pipes, bongs, scales, baggies).
Prescription Drug Fraud
Obtaining or attempting to obtain a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge ("doctor shopping").
Potential Penalties for Florida Drug Convictions
Drug convictions carry serious consequences, including mandatory minimum prison sentences for trafficking offenses, hefty fines, probation, and significant collateral impacts.
Prison/Jail Time
Ranges from misdemeanors (up to 1 year jail) to felonies (up to life in prison). Trafficking often involves mandatory minimums (3, 7, 15, 25 years).
Significant Fines
Fines can range from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially for trafficking ($50,000 - $750,000+).
Criminal Record
A permanent record impacting employment, housing, loans, professional licenses, and immigration status.
License Suspension
Conviction for many drug offenses results in a mandatory driver's license suspension.
Defending Against Florida Drug Charges
An effective defense strategy involves scrutinizing every aspect of the case, from the initial police encounter to the handling of evidence.
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Illegal Search and Seizure: Did police have a valid warrant, probable cause, or consent to search you, your vehicle, or your property? Evidence found via an illegal search may be suppressed (excluded).
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Lack of Possession: Can the state prove you actually possessed the drugs? This involves proving knowledge of the drug's presence and the ability to exercise control over it (actual vs. constructive possession).
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Issues with Evidence: Was the substance properly tested? Was the chain of custody maintained? Was the alleged paraphernalia actually used with illegal drugs? We challenge the reliability of the state's evidence.
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Entrapment: Were you induced or encouraged by law enforcement to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn't have committed?
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Valid Prescription / Medical Use: If charged with possession of a prescription drug, proving a valid prescription is a defense. Medical marijuana defenses may apply in specific circumstances.
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Diversion Programs / Drug Court: For eligible offenders, especially first-time possession cases, negotiating entry into a diversion program or drug court can lead to dismissal of charges upon successful completion.
Meet Our Dedicated Defense Team

Jeff Lotter
Attorney | Founder
An experienced Orlando attorney, Jeff brings more than two decades of front-line law enforcement and legal experience to every case. As a former Florida State Trooper and Deputy Sheriff, he offers clients a powerful advantage: insider knowledge of police procedures and prosecution strategies, crucial in drug offense cases.
Stacy Sanchez
Senior Legal Assistant
Since beginning her legal career in 2014, Stacy has brought unwavering dedication to the field of criminal defense. She joined Lotter Law in 2021 and provides compassionate and detailed support to clients facing drug charges, understanding the stress involved.
Marissa Rodriguez
Legal Assistant
Marissa offers vital assistance in managing drug offense cases, helping clients navigate the legal process and ensuring efficient communication and document handling.
Visit Our Office
Law Office of Jeff Lotter PLLC
200 E Robinson St Suite 1140
Orlando, FL 32801
Serving Central Florida, including Orange County.
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Law Office of Jeff Lotter PLLC | 200 E Robinson St Suite 1140, Orlando, FL 32801