DRUG ARRESTS

Drug crimes encompass a number of offenses, including possession, possession with intent to sell or distribute, conspiracy, trafficking and prescription drug fraud. Drug crimes - especially drug trafficking - are prevalent in South Florida because of its unique geography and proximity to international ports.

Florida claims the dubious distinction of having the harshest marijuana possession laws in the United States - four times as stringent as those imposed by the federal government. Many drug possession arrests are usually for small amounts - 20 grams or fewer - of recreational drugs like marijuana or drug paraphernalia. In the state of Florida, particularly South Florida, drug arrest cases included federal DEA seizures of:

• Cocaine: 9,371.3 kgs.
• Heroin: 220.0 kgs.
• Methamphetamine: 16.9 kgs.
• Marijuana: 33,291.3 kgs.
• Hashish: 44.4 kgs.
• Methamphetamine Laboratories: 125 (DEA, state, and local)

Most of these misdemeanor crimes carry minimum mandatory sentences. A conviction of a misdemeanor drug arrest in South Florida carries a jail sentence of up to one year and a $1,000 fine, so passionate attorney representation is needed to defend your case.

A conviction of the most minor misdemeanor can impact your life severely - not just from the jail time and fine, but future employment opportunities, too. If convicted, you also can be denied rental housing from an arrest. A conviction also will result in suspension of your driver's license for a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years. The ability to adopt or foster a child, receive a student loan, vote, and other rights and privileges are at risk with a drug conviction, no matter how minor.

If you have been charged of a drug crime, or believe you will be charged, time is of the essence. You need the help of aggressive, knowledgeable legal representation. The lawyers at Perlet & Shiner, P.A., will actively and aggressively defend any drug charges brought against you. Representing clients in all areas of South Florida including Palm Beach, our lawyers are well versed in the particular nature of drug crimes, and strive to understand the special circumstances surrounding your particular case.

The Perlet & Shiner, P.A. defense team has extensive prior experience as prosecutors, so the attorneys know both sides of criminal cases. They understand the intricacies of physical and circumstantial evidence, testimony and they are well versed in standard police procedure. Their experience on both sides of the legal representation will ensure that your case receives the strongest defense possible.

Perlet & Shiner, P.A. has successfully defended drug cases in all of South Florida, including West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Wellington, Jupiter and surrounding cities.