Morphine Trafficking in St. Petersburg, FL

Trafficking in morphine is a felony drug offense under Florida law and carries some of the harshest penalties in the state’s criminal code. Morphine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has accepted medical use but also a high potential for abuse. Florida’s trafficking laws do not differentiate between illegal street use and possession with a valid prescription if the quantity exceeds certain thresholds.

If you are facing morphine trafficking charges in St. Petersburg or Pinellas County, it's crucial to contact a knowledgeable St. Petersburg morphine trafficking lawyer as early as possible. Attorney Will Hanlon has over 25 years of experience defending clients against serious drug charges and can help protect your rights and future.

Under Florida Statute § 893.135, trafficking in morphine includes knowingly possessing, selling, purchasing, manufacturing, delivering, or bringing into the state 4 grams or more of morphine or any mixture containing morphine.

Even if you never intended to sell the drug, mere possession of a certain amount can lead to automatic trafficking charges, due to the weight-based nature of the statute.

Morphine trafficking is a first-degree felony, and Florida law imposes the following mandatory minimum sentences based on the weight of the substance:

• 4 to 14 grams:
  • 3 years in prison
  • $50,000 fine
• 14 to 28 grams:
  • 15 years in prison
  • $100,000 fine
• 28 grams or more:
  • 25 years in prison
  • $500,000 fine

These penalties apply even to first-time offenders and eliminate the possibility of probation or early release unless the prosecution agrees to reduce the charge.

An experienced defense attorney can explore several strategies to challenge trafficking charges, including:

• Unlawful Search and Seizure – Evidence obtained without a valid warrant or probable cause may be suppressed.
• Lack of Knowledge or Intent – The state must prove you knowingly possessed the morphine.
• Prescription Defense – If you had a valid prescription, this could serve as a partial or complete defense, depending on the circumstances.
• Weight Disputes – Challenging the way the drugs were weighed, especially if the total includes inert substances or packaging.
• Entrapment – If law enforcement induced you to commit the offense, this could be a viable defense.

Why Choose Hanlon Law?

Attorney Will Hanlon has been defending clients in Florida courts since 1994. He understands the complexities of Florida’s drug laws and fights aggressively to:

• Challenge evidence
• Seek reduction or dismissal of charges
• Minimize sentencing exposure
• Protect your record and your rights

At Hanlon Law, we treat every case with urgency and personal attention because we know what’s at stake for you.

If you or someone you care about is facing morphine trafficking charges in St. Petersburg, FL, your freedom and future are on the line. Do not delay in seeking experienced legal help.

Call Hanlon Law today at 813-228-7095 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Attorney Will Hanlon.