Drug trafficking charges in Florida are some of the most severe drug-related offenses you can face. Unlike possession or distribution, trafficking often involves large quantities of controlled substances and carries mandatory minimum prison sentences.
The consequences can be devastating—years in prison, loss of assets, and a permanent felony record. At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyers understand the gravity of these charges and fight tirelessly to protect your freedom.
If you or someone you love is facing trafficking charges in Cocoa Beach or Brevard County, call our skilled drug crime lawyers at (321) 44-SHARK today.
Understanding Drug Trafficking Charges
Under Florida Statutes § 893.135, drug trafficking is defined as knowingly selling, purchasing, manufacturing, delivering, or possessing specified quantities of controlled substances.
The law does not require proof of intent to sell—simply possessing a large enough quantity can result in trafficking charges.
Trafficking is distinct from other drug crimes because it is tied directly to the amount of drugs involved.
What Are the Types of Drug Trafficking Offenses?
Common types of drug trafficking offenses include:
- Transportation of controlled substances — Moving drugs within or across state lines.
- Distribution and sale — Selling large amounts of drugs, often with mandatory prison sentences.
- Possession of large quantities — Even without evidence of sale, large amounts can trigger trafficking charges.
- Conspiracy to traffic — Agreeing with others to traffic drugs, even without completing the act.
What Qualifies as Drug Trafficking, and How is it Different from Other Offenses?
Drug trafficking differs from possession or distribution because of the quantity thresholds involved.
For example:
- 28 grams of cocaine can result in trafficking charges.
- 25 pounds of marijuana can trigger trafficking penalties.
- 4 grams of fentanyl or heroin is enough to bring trafficking charges.
These thresholds mean someone may face trafficking charges even if they never sold drugs or had plans to distribute.
How Can a Defense Lawyer Help in a Drug Trafficking Case?
A Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyer plays a critical role by:
- Challenging search and seizure procedures to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Questioning law enforcement tactics — Were undercover operations or informants reliable?
- Analyzing the chain of custody for seized drugs to ensure accuracy.
- Exploring alternative explanations for possession or presence of large quantities.
Our drug trafficking lawyers near you have the resources and experience to fight back against aggressive prosecution in these high-stakes cases.
What Are Common Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges?
Defenses may include:
- Illegal search and seizure — Violations of your Fourth Amendment rights.
- Lack of knowledge — Arguing you didn’t know drugs were present.
- Challenging informant credibility — Many trafficking cases rely on unreliable witnesses.
- Disputing weight or quantity — Lab errors may affect whether charges meet trafficking thresholds.
- Entrapment — If law enforcement induced you to commit the crime.
What Are Potential Consequences of a Drug Trafficking Conviction?
The penalties are some of the harshest under Florida law:
- Mandatory minimum prison sentences — Ranging from 3 years to life depending on substance and quantity.
- Massive fines — Up to $500,000 for large-scale trafficking.
- Asset forfeiture — Property, vehicles, and money tied to trafficking can be seized.
- Permanent felony record — Limiting employment, housing, and civil rights.
- For non-citizens, a conviction can also mean deportation.
Is it Possible to Have Drug Trafficking Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, though challenging, trafficking charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed by:
- Negotiating plea deals to lesser charges.
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence or drug weight calculations.
- Suppressing unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Pursuing alternative resolutions such as diversion programs in rare cases.
Our Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyers have the experience to craft a strong defense for your case.
Our Approach to Drug Trafficking Defense
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyers take an aggressive, detail-driven approach to drug trafficking defense, challenging evidence and protecting your rights at every step.
Thorough Case Analysis
Our drug trafficking attorneys carefully review every detail of your case, from how the investigation was conducted to how evidence was tested and preserved.
Strategic Defense Strategies
Our drug trafficking lawyers near you tailor each defense strategy to the circumstances of your case, whether that means pursuing dismissal, reduction, or preparing for trial.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Arrested for Drug Trafficking in Florida?
If you’ve been arrested:
- Remain silent — Do not answer police questions without a lawyer present.
- Request an attorney immediately — Your rights must be protected from the very beginning.
- Do not consent to searches without a warrant.
- Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney.
Call the experienced drug trafficking attorneys in Cocoa Beach at DeGraff Hicks Law Group at (321) 44-SHARK immediately for guidance and protection.
Why Choose DeGraff Hicks Law Group for Your Drug Trafficking Defense?
Our Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyers have successfully defended clients against serious drug charges, and we know how to challenge evidence, negotiate aggressively, and fight for the best outcome.
Specialized Drug Trafficking Defense
We understand the unique challenges of trafficking cases and the aggressive strategies prosecutors use.
Experienced Drug Trafficking Defense Attorneys
Our drug trafficking lawyers have defended clients against serious trafficking charges across Cocoa Beach and Brevard County, with proven success in reducing or dismissing charges.
Client-Centered Approach
We focus on clear communication, compassionate guidance, and aggressive advocacy, keeping you informed and supported at every step.
Don’t Let a Charge Destroy Your Future – Call Our Trusted Drug Trafficking Lawyers Today
Drug trafficking charges can carry devastating consequences, but with the right legal defense, you can fight back.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are committed to protecting your rights and your future.
Call our Cocoa Beach drug trafficking lawyers today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation.
