Jacksonville Drug Crimes Attorney
Former Prosecutor Defending Clients’ Rights in Nassau, St. Johns, Clay & Baker County, Florida
Drug crimes are taken very seriously in Florida. If you are convicted of a drug crime, you could face severe penalties, including jail or prison time, fines, probation, and more. Additionally, a drug crime conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and even obtain certain professional licenses.
If you have been arrested for a drug offense, it is crucial that you reach out to an drug crime attorney in Jacksonville as soon as possible. Call (904) 353-0436 today and start your defense!
At McCormick Law, we have been defending the rights of the accused for over 10 years. We understand the complexities of drug crime cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Our criminal defense law firm in Duval County, Florida, is committed to providing each and every client with the personalized legal solutions they need and the supportive guidance they deserve.
We are available to answer your questions and address your concerns 24/7.
Call our law office today at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a drug crime lawyer in Jacksonville, Florida.
Five-Star Reviews See What our Clients Have to Say
Russell B. McCormick Focuses on You, and It Shows in Our Reviews
Read through some of our recent five-star client testimonials below, or call (904) 353-0436 get started with our attorney today.
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"Absolutely Amazing"
Russell is absolutely amazing. He is very thorough in his research. He conducts himself in a very professional manner. He has so much knowledge. We will be keeping him on retainer.
- Jerry B. -
"He Cared About Me"Russell has always been there for me over the years. No matter what case I was going through at the time, he helped me. He cared about me, and always kept me informed.- Connor S.
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"Recommend 100%"
Thanks for your excellent service and professionalism. In a short period of time, you helped us to understand and succeed in our situation. I recommend 100%.
- Ingrid S. -
"Super Confident and Easygoing"Russell is a very professional, super confident, and easygoing lawyer. I am grateful for the hard work and energy. Extremely impressed and exceeded all expectations. His diligence provided a miracle for my son.- Timaca H.
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"Professional and Respectful"He took what I was given and ran with it. Nothing but success, happiness, and gratefulness when it all came to an end! You will NOT be let down!! If I could give a 10-star rating, he’d definitely have it!!- Mikayla V.
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"Make Him Your First Call!"Sometimes, we make choices in life that require some fast-acting, professional assistance getting it put behind us. Russell McCormick and his team provided just that. I could not have asked for any better service... thank you for making it as painless as p- Tracy W.
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"Hard Work and Dedication"Russell McCormick is an excellent attorney. With Russell's professional expertise and knowledge, my son received a lesser sentence. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.- Carla B.
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"Above and Beyond"They were on top of things from the beginning. He kept us updated as the case moved along. He was always there and answered all of my questions. He went above and beyond anything we expected.- Josh B.
What Are the Most Common Types of Drug Crimes in Duval County, Florida?
Florida drug crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
- Misdemeanor drug crimes are less serious and carry less severe penalties.
- Felony drug crimes are more serious and carry more severe penalties.
In either case, however, a Florida drug crime conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and even obtain certain professional licenses.
Some of the most common types of drug crimes include:
- Drug possession: Possession charges are among the most common drug-related offenses. Whether you are found with marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription, being in possession of these substances can result in serious legal consequences. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the drug, with potential outcomes ranging from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences. The penalties for drug possession depend on the type and amount of the drug in question.
- Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute: Possession with intent to distribute is a charge that can be brought when someone is found with a large quantity of drugs, suggesting an intention to sell rather than personal use. The presence of items such as scales, baggies, or large sums of cash can be used as evidence to support this charge. Convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, even if there is no direct evidence of a sale.
- Drug trafficking: Trafficking involves the possession, sale, transportation, or importation of large quantities of illegal drugs. Florida law imposes severe penalties for trafficking offenses, including mandatory minimum sentences. The severity of the penalty depends on the type and amount of drug involved. For example, trafficking 25 pounds or more of marijuana can lead to a minimum three-year prison sentence and a $25,000 fine.
- Drug manufacturing: Manufacturing and cultivation charges involve producing or growing illegal drugs. This can include operating a methamphetamine lab, growing marijuana plants, or synthesizing other controlled substances. These charges often carry heavy penalties due to the potential risks and hazards associated with drug production. Additionally, law enforcement may pursue charges for related offenses, such as possession of precursor chemicals and equipment used in drug manufacturing.
- Prescription drug fraud: Prescription drug fraud involves the illegal acquisition or distribution of prescription medications. This can include forging prescriptions, doctor shopping, or using fraudulent means to obtain prescription drugs. Prescription drug fraud is treated seriously due to the potential for abuse and the risks associated with controlled substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and the loss of professional licenses.
- Drug distribution: Distribution and sale charges relate to the act of selling or distributing controlled substances. The penalties for these charges are severe and can increase significantly if the distribution occurs near schools, parks, or other designated areas. The prosecution will often seek to prove that the defendant intended to sell or distribute the drugs based on the quantity of drugs found, packaging materials, and other evidence.
- Drug cultivation: Drug cultivation involves the growing or cultivating of illegal drugs, such as marijuana.
If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in Jacksonville, don't wait to seek legal representation. Contact McCormick Law today. We will review your case, discuss your legal options, and begin building a robust defense strategy tailored to your needs.
Call our law office today at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with our Jacksonville drug crime lawyer.
If I'm Arrested for Florida Drug Crimes, What Are My Rights?
When facing drug crime charges in Duval County, it's crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available to you. Our experienced drug crimes attorney in Jacksonville, Russell B. McCormick, PA, has a deep understanding of Florida's drug laws and can provide you with the guidance and representation you need.
Some important aspects to consider in drug crime cases include:
- Search and seizure laws
- Rights during arrest and questioning
- Possible defenses and legal strategies
- Potential consequences and penalties
By working with a knowledgeable drug crime attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best possible defense in your case.
What Are the Most Common Defenses Against Drug Crime Charges?
When charged with a drug crime in Jacksonville, it's crucial to explore all potential defenses to safeguard your rights and minimize the potential consequences. Working with a knowledgeable Jacksonville drug crimes lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Some common defenses include:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement conducted an illegal search or seizure without proper warrants or probable cause, the resulting evidence might be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Lack of Possession: To convict a person of a drug possession charge, the prosecution must prove that the defendant knowingly had control over the illegal substance. Defenses can be built around challenging the notion of possession, particularly in cases of shared spaces or vehicles.
- Miranda Rights Violation: Individuals must be informed of their rights upon arrest. If law enforcement fails to read your Miranda rights, any self-incriminating statements made during the arrest may be excluded from evidence.
- Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when a law enforcement officer induces a person to commit a crime they would otherwise have been unlikely to commit. Demonstrating entrapment requires showing that the defendant was coerced or persuaded into committing the drug offense.
- Chain of Custody Issues: The prosecution must establish an unbroken chain of custody for any drug evidence presented in court. Any lapses or mishandling in this chain can lead to evidence being challenged as unreliable or tampered with.
- Lack of Knowledge: You may defend yourself by proving that you were unaware of the presence of drugs. This defense is particularly relevant in situations where drugs are found in a shared space or when someone else placed the drugs unknowingly in your possession.
A competent Jacksonville drug crimes attorney will meticulously evaluate the specifics of your case and employ the most effective defense strategies to safeguard your rights and future.
How Will Drug Charges Affect Your Life?
Beyond the immediate legal repercussions, drug charges can significantly impact various aspects of a person's life. A conviction can lead to a multitude of long-lasting issues, reinforcing the necessity for experienced legal representation. Here's how drug charges can affect your life beyond the courtroom:
- Employment Challenges: Having a drug crime conviction on your record can make it exceedingly difficult to find employment. Employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal record can be a substantial barrier to securing a job.
- Housing Difficulties: Many landlords perform background checks on potential tenants. A drug crime conviction can limit your housing options, as numerous landlords are hesitant to rent to individuals with criminal records.
- Educational Opportunities: Students with drug convictions may face challenges obtaining financial aid, scholarships, or even admission to certain educational institutions. This can impede their ability to pursue higher education and achieve career goals.
- Professional Licenses: Some professions require licensure or certification, which might be denied or revoked if you have a drug crime conviction. This can hinder your career prospects in fields such as healthcare, law, and finance.
- Personal Relationships: Drug charges can strain personal relationships with family and friends. The stigma attached to a criminal conviction can impact social interactions and the support network essential for rehabilitation.
- Public Record: A conviction remains on your permanent record, available to the public, and can affect your reputation and community standing.
Given these far-reaching effects, acquiring the services of a skilled Jacksonville drug crimes lawyer is invaluable. A seasoned attorney can not only formulate robust defense strategies to mitigate legal penalties but also provide guidance on navigating the additional challenges that arise from dealing with a criminal record. By securing expert legal representation, you enhance your chances of achieving a more favorable outcome and minimizing the broader impact on your life.
Contact us today at (904) 353-0436 for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and legal options with a Jacksonville drug crime lawyer near you.
How Long Does a Drug Felony Stay on Your Record in Florida?
A felony conviction in Florida, including a drug felony, will generally remain on your criminal record for life unless you have it expunged or sealed.
Expungement is a process that can seal the conviction from public view.
Not all felonies can be expunged in Florida, and some drug offenses, such as drug trafficking and manufacturing, are not eligible. However, first-time drug possession offenses can often be expunged, especially if you've completed a drug court program.
You may also be able to have your record expunged if you were under the age of 18 when you committed the crime or if the charges were dropped.
Why Choose McCormick Law?
Personalized Legal Strategy
Every drug charge is unique, and at McCormick Law, we believe in crafting personalized defense strategies for our clients. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your arrest, scrutinize the evidence against you, and explore all possible defenses.
Aggressive Defense
Our Jacksonville drug crimes attorney is known for his aggressive defense tactics in and out of the courtroom. We will challenge any procedural errors, unlawful searches, and violations of your rights to seek the best possible outcome in your case.
Compassionate Support
Facing drug charges can be overwhelming. We are committed to providing not only a strong legal defense but also compassionate support throughout the legal process. Our goal is to help you navigate these challenging times with confidence and peace of mind.
Contact Our Jacksonville Drug Crime Lawyers
If you have been arrested for a drug crime, it is crucial that you reach out to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.
At McCormick Law, we can help you understand your legal options and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and work to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
Call our office today at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a drug crime lawyer in Jacksonville.
