St. Petersburg Hydrocodone Lawyer

Defense for Hydrocodone Trafficking Charges in St. Petersburg, FL

Hydrocodone, a potent opioid found in medications like Vicodin and Norco, is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. In Florida, trafficking in hydrocodone is treated as a serious offense with severe penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences and substantial fines.

If you are facing hydrocodone trafficking charges in St. Petersburg, it's imperative to seek experienced legal representation. Attorney Will Hanlon has been defending clients against serious drug charges since 1994 and is prepared to be your St. Petersburg hydrocodone lawyer.

What Constitutes Hydrocodone Trafficking in Florida?

UnderFlorida Statute § 893.135, a person commits the offense of hydrocodone trafficking if they knowingly sell, purchase, manufacture, deliver, bring into Florida, or possess 14 grams or more of hydrocodone or any mixture containing hydrocodone. Notably, the weight considered includes the entire mixture, not just the pure hydrocodone content.

Penalties for Hydrocodone Trafficking

Hydrocodone trafficking is a first-degree felony in Florida, carrying the following mandatory minimum sentences based on the amount involved:

• 14 to 28 grams:
  • Minimum 3 years in prison
  • $50,000 fine
• 28 to 50 grams:
  • Minimum 7 years in prison
  • $100,000 fine
• 50 to 200 grams:
  • Minimum 15 years in prison
  • $500,000 fine
• 200 grams to 30 kilograms:
  • Minimum 25 years in prison
  • $750,000 fine

These penalties are mandatory, meaning judges have limited discretion to impose lighter sentences unless specific legal criteria are met.

Potential Defenses Against Hydrocodone Trafficking Charges

Facing hydrocodone trafficking charges does not guarantee a conviction. Several defense strategies may be applicable, including:

• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the investigation, evidence obtained may be inadmissible.
• Lack of Knowledge: Demonstrating that you were unaware of the presence of hydrocodone can be a viable defense.
• Insufficient Quantity: Challenging the prosecution's evidence regarding the weight of the substance involved.
• Entrapment: If you were induced by law enforcement to commit a crime you otherwise would not have committed.

An experienced attorney can evaluate the specifics of your case to determine the most effective defense strategy.

Why Choose Hanlon Law for Your Defense

Hydrocodone trafficking charges are complex and carry severe consequences. Attorney Will Hanlon brings decades of experience in criminal defense, with a focus on drug-related offenses. His approach includes:

• Thorough Case Evaluation: Analyzing all aspects of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's arguments.
• Strategic Defense Planning: Crafting a defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
• Aggressive Representation: Advocating for your rights at every stage of the legal process.

Contact a St. Petersburg Hydrocodone Trafficking Attorney Today

If you are facing hydrocodone trafficking charges in St. Petersburg, prompt legal action is crucial. Call Hanlon Law today at 813-228-7095 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Attorney Will Hanlon. Protect your rights and future by securing experienced legal representation.

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