Facing charges for the sale, manufacture, or delivery of controlled substances in Tampa or Hillsborough County can result in severe legal penalties. Florida law imposes strict consequences for these offenses, which may include lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and permanent damage to your reputation. Whether you are accused of selling drugs, producing illegal substances, or transporting them, you need a strong legal defense to protect your rights and future.
At Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., we understand how prosecutors pursue drug-related offenses and are prepared to build a solid defense on your behalf. Our legal team has extensive experience defending individuals accused of drug crimes in Florida.
Call (813) 981-7005 today for a free consultation.
Understanding Florida’s Drug Laws for Sale, Manufacture, or Delivery
Under Florida Statute § 893.13, it is illegal to sell, manufacture, or deliver controlled substances. These charges can apply whether the drugs are being sold directly, produced for distribution, or transported to others. The law categorizes controlled substances into schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use, with Schedule I drugs carrying the harshest penalties.
Common substances involved in these charges include:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Fentanyl
- Methamphetamine
- Prescription drugs such as oxycodone and hydrocodone
Florida Penalties for Drug Sale, Manufacture, or Delivery
Penalties for these offenses vary based on factors such as the type and quantity of the controlled substance and the defendant’s prior criminal history.
Sale or Delivery of Controlled Substances – § 893.13(1)(a)
Selling or delivering a controlled substance is a felony offense in Florida with penalties including:
- Up to 30 years in prison for Schedule I or II drugs
- Fines reaching $10,000
- Potential mandatory minimum sentences for larger quantities
Sale Near Schools, Parks, or Childcare Facilities – § 893.13(1)(c)
Selling drugs within 1,000 feet of designated areas like schools, parks, or childcare centers enhances the severity of charges, resulting in:
- A first-degree felony charge
- Up to 30 years in prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
Sale Near Public Housing or Churches – § 893.13(1)(e)
Selling controlled substances near public housing facilities or churches carries enhanced penalties, including:
- A second-degree felony charge
- Up to 15 years in prison
- A $10,000 fine
Manufacturing Controlled Substances
Producing illegal drugs, such as operating a methamphetamine lab or growing marijuana without authorization, can result in:
- A first-degree felony charge
- Up to 30 years in prison
- Property forfeiture and additional fines
Sale or Delivery of Imitation Controlled Substances – § 817.563
Selling counterfeit drugs is also a criminal offense in Florida, punishable by:
- A first-degree misdemeanor for non-scheduled substances
- A third-degree felony for substances represented as Schedule I or II drugs
Defenses Against Drug Sale, Manufacture, or Delivery Charges
Building a strong defense against these charges requires examining every aspect of your case, including how evidence was obtained and whether your rights were violated. Some possible defenses include:
Unlawful Search and Seizure
If law enforcement conducted an illegal search without a warrant or probable cause, evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
Entrapment
If you were pressured or coerced by law enforcement into selling or delivering drugs, entrapment could be a viable defense strategy.
Lack of Knowledge
Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly sold, manufactured, or delivered the substance. If you were unaware of the presence of drugs, this could lead to a case dismissal.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must establish beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the offense. Weak or circumstantial evidence may be challenged to undermine the case against you.
Constructive Possession
If the drugs were found in a shared space, such as a home or vehicle, the defense can argue that you did not have control over them.
Why Choose Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A.?
Navigating drug charges in Tampa requires a skilled legal team that understands Florida drug laws and local court procedures. At Metcalf Falls, we offer:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have years of experience handling complex drug cases in Hillsborough County.
- Personalized Defense: We tailor our legal strategies to the specifics of your case.
- Aggressive Representation: We fight tirelessly to minimize penalties and seek case dismissals.
We carefully review every detail of your arrest and build a robust defense strategy to protect your rights.
FAQs About Drug Sale, Manufacture, or Delivery Charges in Florida
What are the consequences of a conviction for drug sale in Tampa?
A conviction can lead to prison time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and future opportunities.
Can I be charged if I didn’t personally sell the drugs?
Yes. If law enforcement believes you were involved in a drug-related transaction, even indirectly, you may face charges.
What if I was caught selling drugs near a school or park?
Selling drugs near protected areas such as schools or parks leads to enhanced penalties, including longer prison sentences and larger fines.
Is it possible to avoid jail time for drug sale charges?
In some cases, first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs or plea deals that reduce penalties. A skilled defense attorney can explore these options.
What if law enforcement used an informant in my case?
Informants are commonly used in drug investigations. However, their credibility and the methods used must be examined for potential legal violations.
How can I fight drug manufacturing charges?
Defending against manufacturing charges may involve challenging the evidence, questioning the intent, and ensuring your constitutional rights were not violated.
What should I do if I’m facing drug-related charges in Hillsborough County?
Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately to discuss your options and begin building a defense strategy.
Can I get my record expunged after a drug conviction?
Expungement eligibility depends on the circumstances of your case. If you qualify, an attorney can guide you through the process.
Why Work With Our Florida Defense Lawyers for Sale, Manufacturing, or Delivery of Controlled Substances?
Charges related to the sale, manufacturing, or delivery of controlled substances in Florida carry serious consequences, including significant prison sentences, fines, and a lasting criminal record. These offenses are treated severely by the court system, and a conviction can severely impact your future, affecting employment, housing, education, and other aspects of life. Working with an experienced drug charge defense attorney like Brett Metcalf can provide you with the best chance to challenge these charges and protect your rights.
Brett Metcalf’s background as a former prosecutor gives him a unique understanding of how the prosecution handles cases involving the sale, manufacturing, or delivery of controlled substances. This knowledge allows him to strategically navigate the legal system, challenge evidence, and explore all possible defense options. Whether it’s disproving the intent to sell or manufacturing or exposing flaws in law enforcement procedures, Brett works tirelessly to create a defense tailored to the specifics of your case.
Since 2012, Brett has represented Florida residents accused of drug-related offenses, including the sale, manufacturing, and delivery of controlled substances. He is committed to securing the best possible outcome, whether through dismissals, reductions, or alternative sentencing options. Brett is also experienced in negotiating plea deals and advocating for rehabilitation over harsh punishment, whenever appropriate.
Brett’s dedication has earned him widespread recognition, including being named a Super Lawyers Rising Star and holding a perfect 10 rating on Avvo.com. With over 90 five-star reviews, his proven track record demonstrates his commitment to helping clients move forward without a criminal record holding them back.
Get Help From a Tampa Drug Charges Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one are facing charges related to the sale, manufacture, or delivery of controlled substances in Tampa or Hillsborough County, don’t wait to seek legal representation. A skilled attorney can make all the difference in your case.
Call Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. at (813) 981-7005 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your defense options.
