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DRUG OFFENSES

Drug trafficking

Intent to sell

Manufacturing drugs

Possession

Central Florida Attorney:

Crag Chaderton Law

Drug crimes in Florida are prosecuted aggressively under strict state and federal laws, carrying severe penalties that can alter lives permanently. Florida categorizes drug offenses based on the type and quantity of substances involved, with simple possession charges potentially escalating to trafficking allegations that carry mandatory minimum prison sentences. The state's harsh sentencing structure means even first-time offenders may face years behind bars, particularly for offenses involving opioids, cocaine, methamphetamines, or large quantities of cannabis. Enhanced penalties apply for drug activities near schools, parks, or other protected zones, while federal charges may be brought for interstate operations or large-scale distribution networks. Beyond incarceration, convictions can result in crippling fines, loss of driving privileges, and barriers to employment, housing, and education.

Drug Crimes in Florida: Charges, Penalties & How Crag Chaderton Law Can Defend You

Florida has some of the toughest drug laws in the U.S., with severe penalties—even for first-time offenders. If you’re facing drug possession, trafficking, or distribution charges, you need an aggressive defense to avoid prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Here’s what you need to know:

Crag Chaderton Law approaches these high-stakes cases with a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to each client's unique circumstances. The firm's experienced attorneys meticulously examine every aspect of the prosecution's case, challenging the legality of searches and seizures, scrutinizing chain-of-custody procedures for drug evidence, and questioning the credibility of informants or witnesses. For possession cases, they explore alternative resolutions such as drug court programs or pretrial diversion, while trafficking allegations demand more aggressive tactics like attacking the prosecution's evidence of intent to distribute or negotiating for reduced charges. The firm's knowledge of both state and federal drug laws allows them to navigate complex cases involving multiple jurisdictions. Recognizing that timing is critical in drug cases, Crag Chaderton Law prioritizes early intervention to protect clients' rights from the initial investigation through trial or settlement negotiations, always aiming to achieve the most favorable outcome possible under challenging circumstances.

Highlighting Our Strategies

We are constantly challenging the legality of the stop, search, or seizure, especially under the Fourth Amendment.

Questioning how the prosecution obtained evidence—was Miranda observed, were warrants sufficient, were there procedural violations?

Negotiating plea deals or exploring lesser charges, particularly when the evidence has weaknesses.

Pushing for diversion or treatment programs, particularly in the case of possession or low-level offenses.

Preparing for trial if you desire, or if the prosecution's case has holes they can exploit.

How We help Those in Need.

Our firm takes a holistic approach to drug defense in Florida. That means we not only challenge the legality of searches, seizures, and arrests—we also work to understand the circumstances that led you here. If substance use disorder is a factor, we advocate for diversion programs, treatment options, and rehabilitation alternatives that keep you out of jail and on the road to recovery.

From negotiating reduced charges to securing entry into first-time offender programs or drug courts, we fight hard to protect your record, your reputation, and your rights.

We proudly serve clients in Orlando, Sanford, Casselberry, and across Orange and Seminole Counties. If you're ready to take the first step toward a stronger defense—and a second chance—reach out to us today.

RACHAEL CRAG CHADERTON

Our Outreach Efforts

As a devoted mother, Rachael Crag Chaderton brings compassion and authenticity to her firm’s approach toward drug-related challenges. She understands firsthand the fears and hopes of families confronting substance use issues—and uses that empathy to shape her outreach efforts.

Site Map

Drug Offenses

Don't be a Victim. Say no to Drugs

Drug Use Support Facilities:

AdventHealth Hope & Healing Center (Sanford)

• Offers voluntary, evidence-based behavioral health and substance abuse treatment for adults.

• No-cost consultation; confidential.

• Call 407‑792‑2161 for info or to get started.

SCCD – Crossroads of Sanford

• Inpatient rehab and detox offering cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

• Located at 919 E 2nd St, Sanford, FL.

• Call 407‑875‑3700 or toll-free 800‑913‑1755.

SAMHSA National Helpline

• Free, 24/7, confidential referral service for mental health and substance use treatment.

• Call 1‑800‑662‑HELP (4357) or text your ZIP code to 435748 (HELP4U) for local referrals.

LINKS

SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
https://www.samhsa.gov/prevention

NIDA – National Institute on Drug Abuse
https://nida.nih.gov

DEA’s “Get Smart About Drugs”
https://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/

Partnership to End Addiction
https://drugfree.org

Types of Drug Crimes in Florida

Florida categorizes drug offenses based on:

Type of drug (marijuana, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, prescription pills)
Amount possessed (personal use vs. trafficking)
Intent (possession vs. sale/distribution)
Location (near schools, parks—enhanced penalties)

A. Drug Possession (Florida Statute § 893.13)

Simple Possession (small amounts for personal use):
- Misdemeanor or 3rd-degree felony (up to 5 years prison).
Possession with Intent to Sell/Distribute:
- 2nd-degree felony (up to 15 years).

B. Drug Trafficking (Florida Statute § 893.135)

Mandatory minimum prison sentences apply based on weight:
- Cocaine: 3+ years (28g+).
- Heroin/Fentanyl: 3+ years (4g+).
- Methamphetamine: 3+ years (14g+).
- Marijuana: 3+ years (25+ lbs).
Fines can exceed
50,000–
50,000–500,000.

C. Prescription Drug Fraud (Florida Statute § 893.13)

Illegal possession or sale of oxycodone, Xanax, Adderall without a prescription:
- 3rd-degree felony (up to 5 years).

D. Drug Manufacturing & Cultivation

Operating a meth lab? 1st-degree felony (up to 30 years).
Growing marijuana? Even medical cannabis beyond legal limits can lead to felony charges.

E. Federal Drug Crimes

If the DEA or FBI is involved (interstate trafficking, large-scale operations), penalties are even harsher (10+ years mandatory minimum).

Prevent Drug Abuse

Start locally—connect with Seminole County’s coalition and public schools to learn about events and preventive programs.

Parents & educators, explore NIDA and DEA materials for lessons and discussion guides.

Organizations or campuses can implement frameworks from SAMHSA’s Communities That Care or Campus Drug Prevention guides.

Get involved in initiatives like Take Back Day or Red Ribbon Week to raise awareness and reduce drug diversion.

Drug Abuse Is Not Worth It

Drug abuse may offer a temporary escape—but it comes at a steep and lasting cost. Whether it's trying to numb emotional pain, handle stress, or fit in socially, the risks far outweigh any short-lived relief.

Drug abuse can cause permanent damage to the brain, liver, heart, and nervous system. It weakens the immune system and can trigger chronic diseases—even in young people. Long-term use can lead to mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

How Do we Defend You

✔ Case Dismissal Strategies

Illegal search? If police violated your 4th Amendment rights, evidence gets thrown out.
Lab testing errors? Challenge the drug analysis.
No probable cause? Fight unlawful stops/seizures.