Prescription Drug Trafficking Attorneys in Clearwater, Florida

There Are Special Circumstances In Prescription Drug Trafficking

In an effort to crack down on people buying, selling, and distributing prescription drugs for illegal use, the Florida Legislature has recently changed the laws to include mandatory minimum prison sentences for many prescription drug charges. Now being found with even just a few pills on you, without a valid prescription that you can automatically produce, can qualify as trafficking or prescription drug distribution.

With over 50 years of combined experience, at the law office of Hoskins & Penton, we have helped hundreds of people prove their innocence or negotiate for a fair resolution that they can live with. One of our goals is to have this mandatory minimum penalty removed or have it reduced.

What We Defend Against

We routinely represent individuals charged with possession, distribution, trafficking, or any other prescription drug charge involving:

• Xanax

• Vicodin

• OxyContin

• Percocet

• Hydrocodone

• Ambien

• Muscle relaxing pills

We understand that there are different ways you can be charged and sentenced. For instance, a doctor may prescribe you more medication than what the statute defines as a trafficking amount eligible for a mandatory minimum sentence. If you are caught with this large amount on you that has been prescribed, this can result in a jail sentence if you cannot produce a valid prescription.

Additionally, if you are accused of doctor shopping or having a fake prescription filled, or you have multiple doctors issue you a prescription for the same drug, these can all be deemed fraudulent and result in charges. You can also face charges if you sell leftover medication that was properly prescribed to you.

Addiction Can Cloud The Mind

Some people struggle with addiction to prescription medications. Opiates are incredibly habit-forming, and people are not always in control of their own actions.

We approach these cases with compassion and determination. Just because you have a problem does not mean that jail is the answer. We do everything possible to get clients into treatment or other programs if appropriate.

Fighting Mandatory Sentences

Unfortunately, judges’ hands are tied when it comes to sentencing. Sentences are determined by the weight of the pills, and judges are bound by these numbers. Even if they believe that circumstances demand a different sentence, they are not able to give it.

We fight against this by showing how an amount may have been improperly calculated. Every pill is different, scales can be wrong and other inconsistencies can appear. Whether you are facing an oxycodone arrest or are charged with trafficking an allergy substance to be used to manufacture methamphetamine, you can count on us to exhaust all avenues and remedies when advocating on your behalf.

Let Us Help You

Pill problems do not need to land you in jail. If you have been charged with a drug-related offense or need information about our legal services, contact our office online for a free consultation in criminal defense and injury cases. You can also reach us by calling today.