Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, is a highly addictive and dangerous stimulant. In Florida, methamphetamine-related charges are treated with zero tolerance, and convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and long-lasting consequences on your personal and professional life.
Whether you’ve been charged with meth possession, manufacturing, or trafficking, the penalties are severe. Protecting your rights and future requires immediate action. Contact Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. at (813) 258-4800 to schedule a free consultation.
What is Methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is a powerful synthetic stimulant that impacts the central nervous system. While it has limited medical applications, such as in the treatment of ADHD, its illicit use far outweighs its legitimate applications. Meth is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under Florida Statute §893.03, reflecting its high potential for abuse and severe risk of dependency.
Common Methamphetamine-Related Charges
Florida law categorizes methamphetamine offenses based on the quantity involved and the alleged intent behind possession. Charges range from simple possession to large-scale trafficking or manufacturing operations.
Methamphetamine Possession
Possession of methamphetamine is one of the most common drug-related charges in Florida. This occurs when a person knowingly has meth in their physical possession or control, even in small amounts. Under Florida Statute §893.13, possession of methamphetamine is classified as a third-degree felony.
Convictions for meth possession can result in up to five years in prison and fines reaching $5,000. In some cases, the court may also impose mandatory probation and require completion of a drug treatment program.
Methamphetamine Manufacturing
Manufacturing methamphetamine involves producing, preparing, or processing the drug, often in clandestine labs. The dangers of meth labs are significant, as they involve highly volatile chemicals that can cause fires, explosions, and toxic exposure.
Manufacturing methamphetamine is a first-degree felony in Florida. Convictions carry penalties of up to 30 years in prison and fines as high as $10,000. Additional charges, such as possession of equipment or chemicals used for drug production, can result in enhanced penalties.
Methamphetamine Trafficking
Trafficking methamphetamine is among the most severe drug offenses in Florida. Possessing, selling, transporting, or distributing more than 14 grams of methamphetamine constitutes trafficking under Florida Statute §893.135.
The penalties for meth trafficking depend on the amount involved:
- For 14 to 27 grams, the mandatory minimum sentence is three years in prison, along with fines of $50,000.
- For 28 to 199 grams, the mandatory minimum sentence increases to seven years, with fines of $100,000.
- For 200 grams or more, the mandatory minimum sentence is 15 years, with fines of $250,000.
In trafficking cases, prosecutors often seek the maximum penalties, emphasizing the drug’s destructive effects on individuals and communities.
Are There Other Consequences of Methamphetamine Convictions?
The consequences of a methamphetamine conviction extend beyond imprisonment and fines. A criminal record for meth-related offenses can have a lasting impact on your ability to find housing, secure employment, or qualify for certain licenses or certifications. Additionally, drug-related convictions can result in the suspension of your driver’s license and other civil penalties, such as the loss of voting rights.
If the alleged offense involves aggravating factors, such as distributing meth near schools or involving minors, the penalties can escalate further. For repeat offenders, Florida’s habitual felony offender laws may also apply, increasing the length of prison sentences.
How Do I Defend Against Methamphetamine Charges?
While methamphetamine charges are serious, an experienced criminal defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop a defense tailored to your situation. Common defenses include:
Challenging the Legality of the Arrest
Florida law requires that arrests and searches be conducted lawfully. If law enforcement officers violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a traffic stop, home search, or surveillance operation, the evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
Questioning if You Truly Had Possession of Heroin
Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly possessed methamphetamine. If the drugs were found in a shared space or vehicle, your attorney could argue that the meth did not belong to you or that you were unaware of its presence.
Were There Chain of Custody Issues?
The prosecution must maintain a clear and documented chain of custody for all physical evidence. If the meth was mishandled, misplaced, or improperly stored, your attorney could challenge the validity of the evidence.
You Can Question the Intent Behind Possession
In cases of possession with intent to distribute, the prosecution must prove your intent beyond mere possession. The absence of distribution-related paraphernalia, such as scales or packaging materials, can weaken the state’s argument.
What Are Some Long-Term Implications of Methamphetamine Charges
A conviction for methamphetamine possession, manufacturing, or trafficking can have significant ripple effects on your life. Employers may be reluctant to hire individuals with felony drug convictions, particularly for positions that involve security or handling money. Housing applications may also be denied based on a criminal record, and obtaining financial aid for higher education could become challenging.
Social stigma and damaged relationships often accompany drug-related convictions, further complicating efforts to rebuild your life.
FAQs About Methamphetamine Charges in Florida
What qualifies as trafficking versus possession?
Trafficking drug charges is determined by the quantity of methamphetamine involved. Possession of 14 grams or more is classified as trafficking, even if there is no evidence of intent to sell or distribute.
Can methamphetamine charges be reduced?
Yes, depending on the specifics of your case. An attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, secure a plea deal, or seek alternative sentencing options such as drug court.
What is drug court, and can I qualify?
Drug court is an alternative sentencing program designed for non-violent offenders struggling with substance abuse. Participants must complete treatment programs, regular drug testing, and court monitoring. Successful completion can result in reduced charges or case dismissal.
Are there mandatory minimum sentences for methamphetamine crimes?
Yes, mandatory minimum sentences apply to meth trafficking charges. The minimum ranges from three years to 15 years, depending on the amount of methamphetamine involved.
How can a lawyer help with meth-related charges?
A skilled attorney will investigate the details of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome, whether that involves reduced charges, case dismissal, or acquittal.
Why Work With Our Tampa Drug Charge Defense Lawyers?
Any conviction involving drugs carries serious penalties and consequences, even after you have served your time and paid your fines. Law enforcement agents pursue crimes involving methamphetamine with extreme prejudice, and without the right defense attorney who knows how Tampa’s courts work, you could be facing the worst on your own. Additionally, scrutiny by potential employers, landlords, and financial institutions could make life difficult after a conviction. You might not be able to secure a job, rent a home, return to school, or qualify for loans.
As a seasoned drug charge lawyer in Tampa, Attorney Brett Metcalf brings unique insight from his time as a prosecutor at the State Attorney’s Office. This background allows him to understand prosecutorial strategies, which he uses to his clients’ advantage in all drug charge cases.
Since 2012, Brett has worked tirelessly to defend Tampa residents accused of drug-related offenses. From the outset, he strives to have charges reduced or dismissed. If the case proceeds, Brett develops a robust defense strategy, aiming for pretrial dismissal, an acquittal, or minimized penalties based on the specifics of your situation.
Brett’s dedication has resulted in numerous successes and recognition from prestigious legal organizations. He has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2018, 2019, and 2020, boasts over 90 five-star reviews, and holds a perfect 10 rating on Avvo.com.
Contact a Tampa Methamphetamine Defense Lawyer
Facing methamphetamine charges in Florida is overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible resolution to your case.
Call (813) 258-4800 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation today.
